How to mix and handle mortar

While it is likely that you'll end up getting a little bit on you as you work with it, you should always wash it off as quickly as possible.  The reason for this is that concrete contains lime - which is very caustic.

It is highly recommended that you only mix or work with mortar if you are wearing gloves.  You should also make sure that you keep some vinegar nearby for when you are finished working.  That way, you can pour some vinegar over your hands to neutralize the lime in the concrete.

There are two ways to mix mortar, the easy way, and the hard way.  If you're a beginner, then you should probably get one of the quick drying, ready-mixed concrete mixes.  This way, all you have to do is make sure that you put the right amount of water into the mix.

You can mix the mortar in a wheel barrow if needed.  If you're going to do that, you should put the bag of concrete mix into the wheelbarrow and slit the bag down the side.  Then, just pull the bag up, and all of the mix will be left in the wheelbarrow.  This is the easiest way to get the concrete into your wheelbarrow.

Another option, if you don't want to end up with a little bit of concrete in your wheelbarrow, is to mix in a plastic tub instead.

You should definitely be careful as you mix the cement - if you put too much water in, then the mix will be too thin to actually use.  Therefore, as soon as the mix starts to get a little bit wet, you should mix it thoroughly in between putting in a little bit of water.

If you are going to mix concrete from scratch, you'll need to get all of the different ingredients separately from a hardware store.  This is not recommended unless you have experience mixing mortar or concrete since it is much easier to get the wrong proportions and end up with mortar that just won't work.