Rock Painting
Smooth stones, acrylic paint.
Rock painting is decorating smooth stones with acrylic paint. Beach pebbles, river rocks, or store-bought smooth stones work as the canvas. The shape and texture inform what gets painted on each one.
A rock takes paint quickly and dries fast. Most pieces are decorative: animals, mandalas, abstract patterns, a single flower. Sealing them with a clear varnish keeps the paint from chipping and lets them survive being handled.
Some communities have rock-hiding traditions. You paint a rock, sign the back, and leave it for a stranger to find. Whether or not you participate, the hobby itself is small, cheap, and immediate.
You’ll love rock painting if…
- you want a hobby with a finished thing in one sitting
- you'd hide painted rocks in the wild for strangers to find
- you want a small, contained project that doesn't take up space
What you'll need to get started
Sharpie Acrylic Markers
Use these water-based acrylic markers to paint your rocks.
Large Smooth River Rocks
You can of course start painting rocks you find outside -- but depending on your patience and where you live, you might find it worth it to pick up a back of smooth, pre-cleaned river rocks that have been pre-selected for this purpose.
Heart-Shaped Rocks
Pick up some heart-shaped rocks for an extra special touch.
Sharpie Acrylic Markers (36)
Expand your color palette with 36 Sharpie acrylic markers.
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