Finishing dome

[Gulf]

Re: Finishing dome

I used a plywood disc on a jack. I first saw it on Karangi Dudes Build.
It can be jacked down allowing for cleaning and touching up on each row. Here is what my disc looked like after the fact.
In my opinion the mortaring should be completed from the top. It is stronger and a heck of a lot easier than tuck pointing from inside.

[mooch]

I have about 6 courses up so far. I am deciding on which way to finish the dome. I like the simplicity of a sand form. Once the sand is removed can I then fill in the gaps with mortar from the inside or will it not stick? Do I need to do it for other than cosmetic reasons? I am more of a functional guy than a cosmetic one.