Your Guide to Mastering Concrete Craftsmanship in 2025

2024 may have been a challenge, but the tides are shifting—and 2025 holds incredible potential for artisans like you. At Concrete Design School, we understand your drive to create, grow, and succeed. That’s why we’ve crafted workshops designed to help you achieve your goals and stand out in a competitive market.

The RammCrete Workshop
January 11-12, 2025 | Goddard, KS

Imagine mastering a technique that architects and designers can’t stop talking about. The 1.5-Day RammCrete Workshop, developed by Brandon Gore, introduces you to the revolutionary method inspired by the timeless beauty of rammed earth. Learn everything from mold construction to mixing and finishing, enabling you to craft stunning wall panels, furniture, and sinks with unparalleled texture and character.

This isn’t just about gaining skills—it’s about equipping you to create designs that demand attention and elevate your reputation.

The Fundamentals Workshop
February 1-2, 2025 | Goddard, KS

If you’re ready to embark on your concrete journey, this is where it starts. Designed for beginners and led by instructors with over two decades of experience, the Fundamentals Workshop gives you the essential tools to succeed. From templating to sealing, this course builds a rock-solid foundation in concrete craftsmanship, ensuring you’re prepared for every step of the process.

What’s in it for you?

  • Confidence in your skills and process

  • Expertise that sets you apart in a growing industry

  • The chance to create work that turns heads and wins clients

Take the first step.
Your craft is your livelihood—and we’re here to help you thrive. Don’t wait to invest in yourself. These workshops are your opportunity to gain the knowledge and confidence to make 2025 your best year yet.

Unlock the Art of RammCrete at Our Exclusive Workshop – November 16-17

Join us at Concrete Design School for a 1.5-day immersive RammCrete Workshop, led by Brandon Gore in Goddard, KS. Inspired by the ancient technique of rammed earth, RammCrete allows you to craft stunning, textured designs perfect for wall panels, furniture, and sinks.

In this hands-on training, you’ll master mold construction, mix design, application, and finishing. With only 20 spots available, this intimate workshop is designed to expand your skillset and elevate your craftsmanship.

Details:

  • Dates: November 16-17, 2024

  • Location: Goddard, KS

  • Cost: $1,175 (First-time), $840 (Alumni)

  • Includes $100 credit for Kodiak Pro materials

Don’t miss your chance to learn this revolutionary technique. Register today!

THE SUCCESS OF THE CONCRETE HERO'S QUEST III IN NAPA, CA

Picture this—you're stepping into a place where your creative spirit gets to play with the sturdy, enduring nature of concrete. That's exactly what went down at the recent Concrete Hero's Quest III, a Concrete Design School workshop hosted by SC Fabrication right in the heart of Napa, CA. Over 2.5 days, folks from all corners of the planet came together to get their hands deep into some of the most cutting-edge mold making techniques out there.

Mastering the Art 

This wasn't just any workshop; it was a deep dive into the nitty-gritty of materials like fiberglass, rubber, and epoxy, not to mention the groundbreaking Ramm-Crete technique—Brandon Gore's own concoction. This is about pushing the envelope, finding new ways to make concrete not just functional, but downright revolutionary.

A Gathering of Mavericks 

What really set The Concrete Hero's Quest III apart was the crowd it drew. Over half of those there had been to the Concrete Design School before. They came back because they know the score—the quality of learning and the caliber of camaraderie are top shelf. It's a community of eager minds, all sharing, pushing, and expanding the boundaries of what we can achieve with concrete.

What's Next: Don't Miss Out 

The buzz from The Concrete Hero's Quest III is just the beginning. If you've got a hankering to explore your own concrete possibilities, we've got three more workshops lined up in 2024. No matter where you're starting from, there's a spot with your name on it, ready to take your skills to the next level.

Come On In—The Water's Fine 

Think you're ready to dive into the deep end with us? Whether you're a seasoned pro or just curious about what you can do with concrete, these workshops are your gateway to a world where your creativity meets concrete in a dance that's anything but ordinary. 

Let's make something amazing together. Come on, the world of concrete is calling. Let's answer it, together!

Unlock Your Potential: Elevate Your Craft with our Exclusive Concrete Workshops!

Are you ready to take your concrete craftsmanship to the next level? Buckle up because we have some thrilling news for you! We're ecstatic to announce three additional workshop dates for 2024, including two workshops we haven't offered in years: Fabric-Forming and Furniture Design. It's time to seize the opportunity and invest in yourself because, as they say, you only live once!

Let's dive into the exciting lineup of workshops we have scheduled:

THE BASICS: OUR FUNDAMENTAL CONCRETE WORKSHOP

  • Dates: February 10-11, 2024 & September 28-29, 2024

  • Location: Goddard, KS, USA

Are you new to the world of concrete crafting? Look no further! C.D.S. is renowned for its advanced training, but now we're bringing it back to basics with a beginner's class. Led by our highly skilled instructors with over two decades of experience, this comprehensive 1.5-day workshop covers everything from templating to installation proficiency. Get ready to lay a strong foundation for your concrete journey and unlock endless possibilities in the industry!

THE CONCRETE HERO’S QUEST

  • Dates: May 1-3, 2024

  • Location: Napa, CA, USA

Ready to embark on a heroic journey in concrete crafting? Join us in beautiful Napa, California, for a 2.5-day hands-on workshop designed to elevate your skills to the next level. Led by experienced instructors, you'll learn advanced mold making techniques and gain insights into pricing, sales, marketing, and more. Don't miss this golden opportunity to become a hero in your field!

FABRIC-FORMING CONCRETE SINK + GFRC WORKSHOP

  • Dates: June 21-23, 2024

  • Location: Goddard, KS, USA

Experience the pinnacle of concrete craftsmanship at our Fabric-Forming Concrete Sink + GFRC Workshop! With over 19 years of expertise, we offer exclusive access to invaluable insights and hands-on training in fabric-forming and GFRC techniques. Shape the world with your own hands and create custom pieces of unparalleled strength and beauty!

FURNITURE DESIGN WORKSHOP

  • Dates: August 16-18, 2024

  • Location: Goddard, KS, USA

Ready to unleash your creativity and design timeless pieces of furniture? Join us for an immersive 2.5-day workshop led by Brandon Gore, the visionary behind Gore Design Co. and Hard Goods. This workshop isn't just about crafting furniture—it's an expedition into creativity and exploration. Invest in yourself, elevate your skills, and unlock your full potential in this transformative journey!

Don't sit on your hands, seize the opportunity to up your game in 2024! Whether you're a beginner or an experienced craftsman, there's something for everyone in our exclusive workshops. Join our community of passionate craftsmen and take the first step towards a promising future in the world of concrete crafting. Reserve your spot now and let's elevate our craft together!

Unleash Your Concrete Superpowers at the Hero's Quest Workshop!

Gear up for an extraordinary year of concrete creativity! According to the Concrete Zodiac, 2024 is dubbed the "year of the bear," signaling good fortune for all of us in the concrete community.

Concrete Hero's Quest in Napa, CA - May 1-3, 2024

Get ready to elevate your concrete game at the next Concrete Hero's Quest in beautiful Napa, CA, scheduled for May 1-3, 2024. Led by seasoned instructors Joe Bates, Jon Schuler, and Brandon Gore, this 2.5-day hands-on workshop is your ticket to mastering Advanced Mold Making techniques. From design and form building to casting and finishing, this immersive experience will boost your skills and confidence. Don't miss the chance to delve into pricing strategies, sales and marketing tips, coloring concrete, and collaborating with architects and designers. Seize this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to emerge as a hero in your concrete craft!

Special Offer for Kodiak Pro Customers

Calling all Kodiak Pro enthusiasts! We're excited to announce a 1.5% discount for customers who opt to pay via ACH. If you're keen on unlocking this exclusive offer, reach out to Jon or Brandon before placing your next order. They'll swiftly provide you with a custom invoice containing bank transfer details. Elevate your craft while saving - it's a win-win!

Concrete Podcast - Your Source for Concrete Insights

Stay in the loop with the latest concrete trends by tuning in to The Concrete Podcast, available on Spotify, Apple, and SoundCloud. Immerse yourself in captivating discussions that will keep you informed and inspired on all things concrete!

Ready to embark on a journey of concrete excellence? Join us at the Concrete Hero's Quest, claim your exclusive discount, and stay connected through The Concrete Podcast. Let's make 2024 the year your concrete craft reaches new heights!

Best, BG + Jon

DO I NEED TO BE EXPERIENCED IN CONCRETE TO ATTEND THE 'CONCRETE HERO'S QUEST'?

Jon Schuler teaching C.D.S. attendees about UHPC mix design and proper mixing protocol.

The Concrete Hero's Quest workshop is suitable for attendees of all skill levels, as long as they have a true desire to learn and are driven to create finely crafted concrete. While this workshop is not specifically geared towards beginners, our experienced instructors, Joe Bates, Jon Schuler, and Brandon Gore, will happily answer any questions you may have about the process. Whether you're new to concrete or have been working with it for years, this workshop is a great opportunity to take your skills to the next level and become a hero in the world of concrete. All you need is a passion for learning and a drive to create.

Meet Martin Haddock and Ashlea O'Neill at the Concrete Hero's Quest, Napa, CA, April 26-29, 2023!

One of the standout features of the Concrete Hero's Quest is the chance to meet and spend time with Martin Haddock and Ashlea O'Neill. In addition to being the UK and European distributors for Kodiak Pro (Designer Concrete Supplies Ltd.), a company that specializes in providing high-quality concrete supplies, they are also accomplished and highly regarded experts in the field of concrete artistry. By attending the Concrete Hero's Quest, you will have the opportunity to learn from their wealth of knowledge and experience, and work on a project alongside them. This is a unique and valuable opportunity that should not be missed.

Learn more and register today.

#concretehero #concretedesign #concretedesignschool #posttension #concretefurniture #gfrc #uhpc #kodiakpro

Concrete Hoedown in The Holler 2022 Video Recap + Spring 2023 Pinnacle Concrete Camp Date Coming Soon

We are currently working on scheduling the Spring 2023 Pinnacle Concrete Camp, we hope to make an announcement soon! In the meantime, check out this short video recap of 'The Concrete Hoedown in the Holler' event, held at Dusty Baker's shop in McEwen, TN October 14-15, 2022. It was an amazing gathering of concrete craftspeople, and we look forward to the next one. A huge thank you goes out to Dusty and Brandi Baker for their extraordinary hospitality, and Gilbert and Michelle Hilario for the incredible food they prepared.

Kodiak Pro is more than the world's finest concrete materials company, it's a family of like-minded artisans that strive to make the absolute best products possible.

If you haven't yet made the switch, today is the day to improve the quality of your concrete, and your profitability. As longtime concrete artisans ourselves (2+ decades each), Jon and I are here to help you however we can. Reach out to us anytime, we'd love for you to experience the Kodiak Pro difference.

-BG

A look back at the Spring 2022 Pinnacle Concrete Camp, and looking forward to the Summer 2022 Pinnacle Concrete Camp!

The Spring 2022 Pinnacle Concrete Camp was a smashing success - we had a great time getting to know a phenomenal group of concrete enthusiasts! As always, the pieces they designed and made in their workshop were in a class of their own. If you are thinking about taking a concrete workshop, all you have to do is look at the pieces made in the classes, and you’ll know everything you need to about the real-world experience level of the instructors.

Our next, and last class at Brandon Gore’s rammed earth studio in Eureka Springs, AR, is scheduled for June 20-25, 2022! This is going to be an amazing 6-days of the worlds best hands-on training. We hope to see you there for one last hoorah in Eureka Springs, AR!

Here’s a look back at the last class:


New Online Video Tutorials for Decorative Concrete Artisans

If you have been interested in online video tutorials, I just released the first 2. These aren’t your run-of-the-mill YouTube tutorials from folks that don’t do this for a living. These are made by me and share a wealth of information worth far more than the cost of admission.

-BG

Spend 2 hours with concrete artisan Brandon Gore learning how to make a concrete sink using SCC GFRC. Topics covered included forming materials, tools, mix, casting, curing, finishing, and sealing.

Knowing how to make an awesome concrete sink, countertop, table, or tile is only half of the battle - getting it to the customer is often times when the battle is won or lost! In this tutorial, longtime concrete business owner Brandon Gore will walk you through the steps to come up with a crate cut-list, how to assemble the crate, finishing details, and how to ship it. If this tutorial saves you from having to remake even one piece, it paid for itself 100x over.

Best Concrete Countertop Sealer for Concrete Sinks, Concrete Countertops, and Concrete Tile

We’re always on the lookout for the best concrete sealer. You may be asking, ‘what happened to Quantum Concrete Sealer’? With Covid, one of our raw ingredient suppliers has not been able to fulfill our order.

Jon Schuler, one of our trainers here at Concrete Design School, is the developer of ICT. I used ICT for years, and loved it, but when Jon developed PS1 and transitioned away from the previous formula, I didn’t have great results. That was the impetus to develop and release Quantum, which worked far better on our projects than PS1.

All that being said, Jon has been working on a new version of ICT called ‘CT’, which he brought and demonstrated at the last Concrete Design School workshop. He has added a new step/product called ‘Prime’, which really accelerates the performance of the new sealer. I’ve personally used and tested it, and I love it! It’s fortunate timing since we’re having supply chain issues with Quantum.

Effective immediately, Kodiak Pro is going to discontinue Quantum and instead retail the new ICT Sealer and Prime. You will be able to purchase it directly through our site for the same price as buying direct.

Spring 2021 Pinnacle Concrete Camp Recap and Fall Workshop Date Announcement!

The Spring Pinnacle Concrete Camp was a wonderful class, we had a great time with an amazing group of craftsmen. Thank you to Polytek for supplying rubber for the workshop and having Bryne Klusovsky come out to assist with teaching and technical questions. We used Kodiak Pro Maker Mix and the newly released RADmix to make all of the pieces, and in the last 16 years of teaching classes, the concrete has never looked better! Jon Schuler brought and taught his new ICT Prime product (a game changer), and we spent many evenings around a campfire enjoying cold beers and concrete camaraderie. 

You don’t want to miss out on the Fall Pinnacle Concrete Camp, scheduled for November 1-6, because A) it is by far the best training available anywhere in the world, period, and B) Brandon Gore is going to teach his 2-day Furniture Design Workshop. It has been over two years since the last Furniture Design class and many Alumni and interested attendees have asked about it, so now is your chance. Register today, then go buy a lottery ticket, because the day you sign up for a CDS course is sure to be filled with good fortune! 

The March 2021 Pinnacle Concrete Camp is a GO! Register today!

Attendees learning from Dusty Baker at the Spring 2020 Pinnacle Concrete Camp.

Attendees learning from Dusty Baker at the Spring 2020 Pinnacle Concrete Camp.

We’ve received several emails over the last few weeks asking if the March 2021 Pinnacle Concrete Camp is going to be held, and the answer is YES! It is going to be an amazing class for folks wanting to learn GFRC, ECC, concrete sinks, concrete countertops, concrete furniture, DustyCrete, upright casting, sealing concrete for the real world, business practices, and everything else that it takes to run a successful concrete business. Jon Schuler, Dusty Baker, and Brandon Gore bring a combined 60 years of experience doing what they teach, they don’t just talk the talk, they walk the walk every - single - day. The difference between our workshops and others is Experience - Experience the Difference, register today!

'Rona Got Us! The Fall Pinnacle Concrete Camp is Postponed until Spring 2021

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The 'rona got us! Due to Covid travel restrictions more than half of the workshop attendees cannot enter the United States for the Fall workshop, so we are postponing the class until Spring. The new Pinnacle Concrete Camp workshop date is:

March 1-6, 2021


This is our premiere training event and will feature 6 intensive days of hands-on instruction with Brandon Gore, Dusty Baker, and Jon Schuler. Topics include, but are not limited to:

  • GFRC

  • ECC

  • Concrete Mix Designs

  • Rubber Mold Making

  • Post-Tensioning Concrete

  • The Business of Running a Concrete Business, i.e. Sales & Marketing, Pricing, Etc.

  • Concrete Sinks

  • Concrete Countertops

  • Concrete Furniture

  • DustyCrete, the rustic-modern finish developed by Dusty Baker

  • Upright Casting

  • Advanced Finishes

  • Sealing concrete for the real world

  • Tools and Equipment needed


If you’re going to spend money on a concrete class, shouldn’t someone currently making a living in concrete design and fabrication teach it? It has always been our goal to offer our attendees “tried and true” skills from qualified instructors that successfully run their own businesses. Our instructors innovate and master unique approaches through years of trial and error - client project after client project. That is the value in what they bring to the table and teach to every attendee of our workshops. We’ll show you how we do it, using products and techniques proven to work.

We hope to see you this Spring at the Pinnacle Concrete Camp! Please feel free to reach out to any of our trainers with questions about the upcoming class.

One Month until the Fall Pinnacle Concrete Camp! Learn GFRC, ECC, Dusty-Crete, Upright Casting, Post-Tensioning, and Rubber Mold-Making!

We’re 1 month out from the Fall Pinnacle Concrete Camp at Concrete Design School! This is your last opportunity for 2020 to learn how to create cutting edge concrete furniture pieces using post-tensioning, how to make rubber molds, GFRC and ECC mix designs and casting techniques, the rustic-modern aesthetic known as Dusty-Crete, and how to create advanced hand-tooled finishes by casting concrete upright.

Since 2005, more than 1,400 artisans have attended training workshops at Concrete Design School (C.D.S.). During this time, we have built a reputation for excellence in the industry, which is why so many have trusted us to teach the art of high-end concrete design. What sets us apart is experience, and we invite you to experience the difference.

You’ll learn from craftsmen who are currently creating custom concrete pieces for high-end clientele. People who practice their trade daily will teach you the same techniques used to operate successful, award-winning concrete businesses. These workshops offer instruction on the latest techniques and insights in concrete design.

We hope you’ll join us this November 16-21 in the beautiful Ozark Mountains town of Eureka Springs, AR for concrete and camaraderie! Please feel free to reach out with any questions. 

The Concrete Hoedown in the Holler Recap

Last week we conducted our Summer 2020 hands-on concrete training class, ‘The Concrete Hoedown in the Holler’. This workshop was held at Dusty Baker’s studio located just outside of Nashville, TN. It was a great event and we had a lot of fun, made some amazing concrete pieces, and even better friendships. Our last class for 2020 is coming up this November in Eureka Springs, AR, click here to learn more and register!

Kodiak Pro Maker Mix Instructions

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We’ve shipped out over 20 pallets of mix over the last couple of weeks and we’re excited to see what you awesome artisans make with it! The mix isn’t on the website quite yet, so in the meantime, here are the mix instructions:

All ingredients per 50 lb bag of Kodiak Pro Maker Mix:

Sprayable

10-12 g Kodiak Pro ‘The Best Plasticizer’

40 g PVA 7’s

6.8 lbs Ice Water

SCC GFRC

70 g Kodiak Pro ‘The Best Plasticizer’

6.6 lbs Ice Water

1 lb AR Bundle Fiber

Clay Mix

30 g Kodiak Pro ‘The Best Plasticizer’

70 g PVA 7’s

90 g PVA 15’s

6.6 lbs Ice Water

ECC

45 g Kodiak Pro ‘The Best Plasticizer’

40 g PVA 7’s

130 g PVA 15’s

6.7 lbs Ice Water

We recommend you purchase your fibers direct from the manufacturer and cut out the middleman. For AR Glass Fibers contact Richard Hartwick at Nippon Electric Glass, his phone number is 214-669-9745 and his email is rhartwick@negamerica.com

For PVA fibers you can contact Nycon at 800-456-9266 and their email is sales@nycon.com

Kodiak Pro Maker Mix / A Preblended Concrete Bagged Mix for GFRC, ECC, Sprayable, and Clay Mixes

Kodiak-Pro-Maker-Mix-Label-Web.jpg

We are excited to announce the launch of our new pre-blended bagged mix, Kodiak Pro Maker Mix! This Swiss Army Knife of a mix is able to be utilized for GFRC, ECC, sprayable, and clay mixes. Maker Mix is a white cement mix that is packaged in 50 lb bags and sold in half and full pallet quantities (56 bags per pallet). It only requires the addition of water, THE BEST PLASTICIZER, and fibers. 

If you are interested in getting a quote on mix, please email us with the amount you would like to order, your shipping address, if the address is commercial or residential, and if you have a forklift or loading dock onsite.

You can download the KODIAK PRO MAKER MIX DESIGNS here. Please feel free to contact us with any questions.

Spring 2020 Pinnacle Concrete Camp Recap, and the ‘Concrete Hoedown in the Holler’ is scheduled for August 10-14 in Hurricane Mills, TN!

We recently held the Spring Pinnacle Concrete Camp (photos above), and WOW, what an amazing class and a great group of people! Buddy Rhodes, the man, myth, and legend, was in attendance and his enthusiasm and love for concrete was infectious. We demonstrated products from Buddy Rhodes Concrete Products, Smooth-On, Kodiak Pro, and Polytek. Polytek was kind enough to send a representative (Bill Scheetz) to assist with the rubber mold-making portion of the workshop, and he was amazing. 

We are currently accepting registrations for the November Pinnacle Concrete Camp, the class is currently about 25% full.

Here are a few unsolicited testimonials from workshop attendees of the most recent Pinnacle Concrete Camp:

“The excitement levels, base knowledge, and professionalism of Brandon Gores shop/studio is second to none. If you don’t come away from one of his workshops with what you need, you weren’t paying attention. Other schools try to match the level of this one and fall short. Thank you Brandon, Jon, and Dusty for a fun and informative week in the mountains of Arkansas.” -Tanner Coleman / AnT Sculpture and Design

“One of the absolutely best workshops I've ever attended! Amazing!!!!!” -Alicia Dietz / Alicia Dietz Studios

“Such a great addition to any concrete professionals portfolio, after attending the CDS workshop my business was propelled to another level using these techniques. Thanks again guys, looking forward to attending again!” -Henry Kaldenbaugh / HK Concrete Design

“It was awesome!” -Joshua Boe

“Just got home from spending an amazing week at the Pinnacle Concrete Camp in Eureka Springs. Two years ago I attended Brandon’s and Dusty’s workshops, went home excited to start creating only to have to shelf my ambitions due to health issues. Now that I’m back amongst the living I figured a refresher was in order, I’m so glad I did. The way this 6-day training was structured worked perfectly for me. 

Brandon’s class with the beautiful look of traditional concrete in modern form is outstanding. Now with the knowledge of post-tensioning I can’t wait to build something that that makes people question my sanity, although my wife questions my sanity regularly. As a bonus the mold making at the minimum solves the extra mud problem, and then art ideas start flowing. Business practices provide a good outline, setting expectations and the many classroom discussions were a bonus. 

Dusty’s class provides the unique process to create an amazing stone like appearance which is right up my alley. I most likely will focus in this lane with my own twist.

New to me was Jon’s upright technique, old world hand tooled look that will get anyone’s attention peaked my interest and I’ll be playing with that process for sure. All three techniques and different mix designs produce spectacular visual results. What tied all the classes and different techniques together for me and sent me on my way feeling more confident in my abilities was Jon’s in depth discussions about concrete, proper curing and why and the nuts and bolts of sealing. Learning the science behind all of this is your power, the power to build confidently and equally important, the power to sell. On a final note, the class attendees were good people all aspiring to achieve greatness. I can see myself returning to Eureka Springs from time to time to learn and collaborate on new ideas and products in an ever changing industry and to drink a beer, well tequila for me, with my new family. At the price Concrete Design School is offering these classes to Alumni it is a no-brainer!” -Bob Bowles

This brings to me to my final update for this blog post - we scheduled a 5-day EPIC event like no other… The Concrete Hoedown in the Holler! Join Brandon Gore, Dusty Baker, and Chuck Fournier in Hurricane Mills, TN, August 10-14, for a 5-day event that will be unlike any other. You will learn how to create fabric-forms, cast a complex concrete sink utilizing GFRC, gain an understanding of the basics of form-building and templating, and master the rustic-modern aesthetic known as DustyCrete. But wait, there’s more! Being that this monumental gathering is being held at Dusty Baker’s studio, we will take time to build bonfires in the evenings, shoot at things (targets mostly), spend time on the lake, and just have a good time in the south. Don’t miss out on this, register today!