i have just used a "mason's select" concrete stain product (they have a website which will provide local retailer info). i initially attempted the "acide stain" technique but it failed, probably due to the age of the concrete (1930 house). this is all very complicated, and there are a multiplicity of opinions. i did two coats of the mason's select product and am finishing it w/ a coat of acrylic. so far so good. the main thing is to prep the concrete well - clean it, etch it, repair the cracks. it is very time consuming as you have to let the concrete dry completely, etc.