Staining My Front Porch

So... while most were out tearing up the town for the Fourth of July, I got busy staining my concrete front porch! Here is the link for the tutorial I followed: http://farmfreshvintagefinds.com/barn-makeover-stain-concrete-part-2/

Just as she did, I ragged the stain on instead of using the recommended sprayer. I used a 2" brush to edge with, then just blended with my rag to avoid obvious lines. I did a circular motion when applying the stain for a consistent look. I used Behr semi-transparent concrete stain in dark coal from Home Depot. So far I have only applied one coat and I haven't decided yet if I will apply another. Once I decide, I will finish it with the Behr low luster sealer.

Here was my inspiration for the edging I chose.

While mine isn't as precise and neat, it works. Adds a little bit of interest to a rather boring concrete slab and if my brother didn't even notice that they weren't individual bricks, then I guess I nailed it.

And just for giggles, let's do a flashback of how this porch looked a year ago :)

This is how the house looked on closing day. Can you say horrible hedges?

This is after they were removed. I'm still waiting on my plants to bloom.

Happy 4th of July!