sand like sticky toffee

Concetrated Feb mix,will make the mortar more workable

Sounds like you’re missing mortar plasticiser in your mix

Try fedmix i’ve always used it and it’s always helped, instructions are easy to follow online. :)

Make sure to use feb mix (mortar plasticiser) and allow it more time to knock up in the mixer so that the feb can work it's way through properly. Some sand is claggy and sticky though regardless unfortunately!

It sounds like your mix is wrong.try four full shovels of sand to one shovel of cement.

It seems like you're having some issues with the cement mix becoming sticky and setting too quickly. There are a few potential reasons for this problem: Water content: Cement requires the right amount of water for proper hydration. If you add too much water, the mix can become excessively sticky and set faster. On the other hand, insufficient water can lead to a dry mix that is difficult to work with. It's important to find the right balance when adding water to your cement mix. Mixing technique: The way you mix the cement and sand can also affect the consistency. Make sure you are thoroughly blending the materials together until they form a homogeneous mixture. If there are pockets of dry cement or uneven distribution of sand, it can lead to inconsistencies in the mix. Temperature and humidity: Environmental conditions can impact the behavior of cement. Higher temperatures and low humidity can cause the mix to set faster. If you're working in hot weather or low humidity conditions, you may need to adjust your mixing and application techniques accordingly. Quality of materials: Check the quality of your cement and sand. Sometimes, using low-quality or contaminated materials can affect the performance of the mix. Ensure that you're using suitable building sand and good-quality cement from a reputable source. Mixing equipment: If you're mixing by hand, the efficiency and consistency of your mixing can vary. Using a proper mixing tool, like a cement mixer or a drill with a paddle attachment, can help achieve a more uniform mix. To address the sticky and quick-setting issue, here are a few suggestions: Start by adding a smaller amount of water than you usually do and gradually increase if necessary. Mix the water and dry materials thoroughly until you achieve a workable consistency. Work in smaller batches to give yourself more time to apply and finish the cement before it starts to set. Consider using additives such as plasticizers or retarders. Plasticizers improve workability and reduce stickiness, while retarders slow down the setting time. These additives can be found at hardware stores and are often specifically designed for cement mixes. Experiment with different sand-to-cement ratios. Adjusting the ratio can sometimes improve the workability and setting time of the mix. If possible, try mixing the cement in a shaded or cooler area to mitigate the effects of high temperatures. Remember, it's essential to follow proper safety guidelines when working with cement, including wearing protective gear such as gloves and a mask.