We are wanting to do a "limestone" facade behind the woodstove but wow is the cast stone expensive. 100 sq ft is $500. I could buy a casting mold and 25 bags of concrete and some coloring and make the stones myself for less than $200. It will take 25 days to do the job but I think it will be worth it for the savings and I would also possibily replace the stone facade on the outside of the house as that looks very dated and is crumbling in places. In other words, I think it could pay for itself. Some of the reviews of the product on amazon show some of the stones that people have turned out and they look great! http://www.amazon.com/Molds-Make-Drystack-Ledgestone-ODL-05/dp/B001S9ARVE/ref=cm_wl_huc_item
I say go for it! You could put an imbalanced pulley or some such on a motor attached to a plywood table top to provide some vibration.... Been there, done that- no tee shirt to show for it, tho
I have only cast a concrete cobble stone walkway/path with a mold. Looks natural and lasts. I really like what you are thinking of. Should make for an interesting DIY thread to follow.
We made a mantle stone. About 8'x16"x4". Turned out pretty good. Have never made any veneer stone. Good luck.
