In the past, imprinted concrete was usually limited to a mason scoring a flagstone-like design freehand, or embedding sticks, leaves and even coffee cans into the surface to achieve a desired effect. Today, the leading edge of concrete is a process called pattern-stamping. This process involves "stamping" or "impressing" three dimensional patterns into colored concrete with special stamping tools. When the stamping is complete, the product is then sealed, highlighting the colors and providing greater stain and weather resistance.