Abstract: A mold for forming concrete articles comprises a face mold and a compression lid which are relatively configured so that the compression lid can be progressively inserted within the face mold to define a mold cavity which decreases in size. The mating edges of the face mold and compresssion lid define a relief area between them adjacent to, and communicating with the cavity. Each mating edge has a flange, and the flanges abut and prevent further insertion of the compression lid into the face mold when the proper size of the article being formed is attained. The mating edges further have corrugations defining a plurality of channels which extend between the relief area and the exterior of the mold. Excess water from concrete mixture being compressed between the face mold and compression lid can flow from the cavity, through the relief area, through the channels, and out of the mold.