From detailed mandala designs to easy ideas for kids, there are plenty of painted rocks for inspiration.
The rock painting phenomenon is a fun and cheap family-friendly activity. It’s a great way to keep the kids entertained over summer break or after school.
From simple designs for beginners and kids to intricate artwork that challenges more advanced painters, there are painting ideas for every skill level and occasion. Whether you are looking for mandala stones, cartoon characters, kindness rocks, or festive holiday decorating ideas, there are plenty of designs to choose from.
This is a comprehensive guide that includes an introduction, a getting started overview, what supplies are needed, and a step-by-step tutorial before moving on to an array of dazzling designs.
Painted rocks are more than just a fun summer craft; they’re a global movement that spreads joy, creativity, and a message of kindness.
What is it about?
This phenomenon is about spreading happiness and a sense of community through creating and sharing these small, hand-painted stones. It is a global trend, with people of all ages and backgrounds joining.
It’s a blend of artistic expression and outdoor fun. You get to take something ordinary (a simple stone) and make it into something extraordinary. It’s basically a modern-day treasure hunt. Hiding and finding these rocks in public places adds an element of surprise and fun to everyday life.
Whether you’re an artist seeking a new medium, a parent looking for a kid-friendly activity, or simply someone wanting to spread happiness, this activity offers a fun and creative way to express yourself and be a part of a bigger community.
One of the most remarkable aspects of this movement is its ability to bring people together. Facebook groups and local groups dedicated to rock painting connect individuals, allowing them to share their creations, exchange tips, and organize rock-hunting events.
How to Participate?
If you find a painted rock, you can keep it and create a new one to leave in its place, continuing the cycle. Alternatively, you can re-hide the rock you found in a new location for someone else to discover.
Many rocks have the name of a community group or a Facebook page written on the back, which allows finders to connect with the creators and the community online.
When you leave one, be sure to take a picture of your rock’s hiding spot and share it on the group’s Facebook page! Don’t forget to place the rock in a location where it’s likely to be discovered – after all, the joy of this movement is in finding these hidden gems.
Supplies Needed
- Flat, smooth rocks – You can find them for free in your backyard, at a local park, or on Craigslist/OfferUp. Alternatively, you can purchase them from the dollar store or craft store. You can buy river rocks at Dollar Tree for $1.25.
- Acrylic paint – Outdoor and multi-surface acrylic paint is the best choice for its durability and vibrant colors.
- Paint markers – I highly recommend these POSCA paint pens!
- Paint brushes – Various sizes and shapes of brushes will help you achieve different effects on your stones.
- Outdoor Modge Podge Sealant – A clear spray sealer or a brush-on outdoor Mod Podge will protect your stones from weather and wear, keeping the colors bright and beautiful.
Tutorial
Prepping the stones
Choosing the Perfect Rocks: If you are looking for stones out in nature, look for flat, smooth surfaces to make it easier to paint. You can use 150-grit sandpaper to smooth small bumps. For those feeling more adventurous, uniquely shaped rocks can inspire creative and intricate artwork.
Cleaning: Wash your rocks with soap and water to remove dirt and grime. A clean surface ensures that the paint adheres well and lasts longer.
Priming: Though not necessary and depending on the design you choose, applying a white acrylic primer can enhance the vibrancy of your colors, especially on darker stones. Allow the primer to dry completely before you start painting.
Sealing: Seal the stone before painting on it so that its porousness doesn’t absorb too much of your paint or markers. When you finish your design, seal the stones again to protect them from weather and wear.
Painting the rocks
Painting: For the best results, use several coats of paint and let it dry between layers and coats to avoid smudging and achieve crisp lines. Applying a hairdryer on a low setting can speed up the drying process without causing the paint to crack.
Experiment with Tools and Techniques: Beyond brushes, explore different tools like sponges, dotting tools, or even toothpicks to create various textures and effects. Techniques like blending, layering, or stippling can add depth and detail to your designs.
Keep a Practice Rock Handy: If you’re trying a new technique, you can test it on a practice rock. Doing this helps you refine your skills without having to worry about getting it right the first time.
If You Mess Up, you can wipe it off or wash it away while the paint is still wet. You can dab a corner of a paper towel in water and do it quickly and easily. Also, remember that part of the charm is imperfections, so embrace each stone’s unique quirks!
Don’t Forget to Share Them! Join a local or online community to share your creations, get inspired by others, and maybe even participate in a rock-hunting event.
For a more detailed, step-by-step tutorial, please see the how-to card located at the bottom of the page.
Now that you have an overview of this phenomenon, let’s look at these 100 creative ideas that will rock your world and give you plenty of inspiration.
Animal Designs
Painted Owls from Frugal Fun 4 Boys
Bird and Branch (source unknown)
Ladybugs from Crafts by Amanda
Painted Hedgehogs from Easy Peasy Fun
Cute Pig from 10 Marifet
Bee Rocks from Easy Peasy and Fun
Duck Craft from Martha Stewart
Black Cats from eBay
Panda Stone from Rock Painting 101
Cute Bugs from avocadoughtoast.com
Penguin from Lindsey Bridges Art
Colorful Fish Magnets from artalika.com
Hatching Chick from Robin Bailey (via Pinterest)
Mouse Stone from Martha Stewart
Frog from Pinterest
Caterpillar from Kitchen Fun with My 3 Sons
Painted Sharks from Sustain My Craft Habit
Shapes & Design Ideas
Rainbow Rocks from Kiwi Co.
Fine Detailed Stones from Funnel Cloud
Mandala Stone from Colorful Crafts
Pour Paint Beach Stones from Happy Hooligans
Chic Rocks from Frieda Theres
Marbled Rocks from Creative Green Living
Galaxy Rocks from Adventures in a Box
Geometric Rocks from Alisa Burke
Puffy Paint Stones from I Love to Create
Mandala Hearts from Sustain My Craft Habit
Photo Holder from One Little Project
Rock Dominoes from Repeat Crafter Me
Nature, Plants & Landscapes
Camping Rock from Etsy
Cactus Yard Art (video tutorial) from Wonderful DIY
Beach Themed Stones from Plaid Online
Branching Tree from Etsy (this item is no longer available)
Colorful Floral Rock from Etsy
Rainbow, Balloon and Heart Stones from SoFire Creations (via Facebook)
Watermelon Rocks from Testors
Strawberries from Image Events
Watermelon Rocks from Projects with Kids
Garden Markers from Adventures in a Box
Pet Cactus from The Best Ideas for Kids
Fruit Tic Tac Toe from Everyday Dishes
Flower Rocks from Sustain My Craft Habit
Vintage Camper from Atta Girl Says
Fairy Door from Adventure in a Box
This one would make a great addition to your fairy garden!
Ice Cream Rocks from Projects with Kids
Holidays / Seasonal Rock Painting Ideas
Snowmen from Frugal Fun for Boys and Girls
Snowflake Stones from Suzy Sit-Com
Halloween Rocks from Bebe and Bear
Fall Leaves Stone from I Love Painted Rocks
Patriotic Pebble from Stagetecture.com
Valentine’s Day Stones from Red Ted Art
Painted Easter Eggs from Projects with Kids
St Patrick’s Day Rocks from Just a Little Creativity
Character Rocks
Trolls from The Keeper of the Cheerios
Painted Minions from Non Toy Gifts
Emojis from Cara Dura Designs
Googly-Eyed Monsters from Makoodle
Huddled Around Fire from Kitchen Fun with My 3 Sons
Star Wars Jawa from Crafts by Amanda
Garden Thing from Instructables
Quote & Phrases
Faith Can Move Mountains from Etsy
Life is Beautiful Waves from ArtRocks
Live Love Laugh from Etsy
Kindness Words from Dabbles and Babbles
Colorful Courage Stone from avocadoughtoast.com
Rainbow Love Rock from Etsy
You Rock from Etsy
Rainbow Quote from Rene Angelou (via Pinterest)
Be Happy from Connie (via Pinterest)
Change Pebble from Stenelene (via Instagram)
Thought Bubbles from Cindy Mohrbach (via Pinterest)
Believe Rock from Heart Made Stone Art (via Instagram)
Stupid People Quote from Jennifer Penn (via Pinterest)
I Love My Cat Paw Print from Creations by Pam (via Facebook)
Life is Short from Jack & Mom Zsg (via Instagram)
Feel Good Rocks from Plaid Online
Various Quote Rocks from Plaid Online
Tropical Paradise from Doodle Craft
Garden Markers from Crafts by Amanda
Kindness Rocks from Crafts Unleashed
Watercolor Heart from Color Made Happy
How to Paint Rocks
Equipment
- Paint brushes in various sizes
Materials
- Outdoor Sealant To protect your rock from the elements. You can use either a clear spray sealant or a brush-on outdoor Mod-Podge.
- Paint pens or markers
- Acrylic paint Be sure to use outdoor paint for added durability
- Flat, smooth rocks
Instructions
- Find or buy flat stones with smooth surfaces for easier painting.
- Wash your rocks thoroughly with soap and water to remove dirt or grime. Let them dry.
- Seal the stone with sealant before you start painting to prevent the porous surface from absorbing too much paint.
- Apply a white acrylic primer to enhance the vibrancy of your colors, especially effective on darker stones. Allow the primer to dry completely. Depending on the color of your stone and the design you choose, you can opt to skip this step.
- Begin painting your design. Apply several coats of paint, allowing each layer to dry completely to avoid smudging and achieve crisp lines. You can use a hairdryer on a low setting to expedite drying without causing the paint to crack.
- Feel free to explore different painting techniques beyond brushes—use sponges, dotting tools, or toothpicks to add different textures and effects. Experiment with blending, layering, or stippling techniques to add depth and detail to your designs.
- If you make a mistake, quickly wipe or wash off the paint while it's still wet using a damp paper towel.
- After painting, apply a few more sealant layers to protect your design against the weather and to keep your colors from fading. Be sure to let your stone dry after each layer of sealant.
More Summer Crafts and Activities
- 100 Cheap and Easy Summer Activities for Kids
- 100 DIY Backyard Games for Kids and Adults
- 100 Best Summer Crafts for Kids
- 30 Free Summer Coloring Pages for Kids
Follow me on Pinterest, Facebook, or Instagram for more inspiration on crafts, DIY, free printables, and recipes!
MaryBeth Jarrell says
Love ❤️ all the different rock designs and the ideas that pop into my head are awesome!
prudentpennypincher.com says
So glad you liked them and got some inspiration from them!
Ericka Ginter says
What is used to keep rocks standing in a cluster? such as a family of rocks by the “campfire” or a bunch of creepy rocks all staring up at you like you’re not in line to join them.
prudentpennypincher.com says
Hi Erika,
E6000 or super glue should work.
Daisy says
E6000 will work but it will need about 20 min to set up….before you can add another rock. The key is to use enough glue. There is also a cement or stone adhesive, not sure about that one though.
SUSAN says
Hi my Name is Susan I Love to paint ,and do Arts and crafts, but mainly painting on my rocks for people . I would Love to hear from you any time. Thank You so much. I am looking for a pattern to do a money for a dear friend that has Pased.
Linda Mazeqie says
Your rocks are beautiful! I am a grandma and have 2 grandsons we stared painting rocks and it it so fun and when they aren’t with me I paint and it relaxes me. It’s a great hobby for kids to do. Thanks for sharing
Karen says
Where do I find the adorable MINT CANDY painted rocks?
Tonia Mason says
My mother passed almost 10 years ago. I found several painted rocks in her belongings and didn’t understand what would possess her to do such a thing. After seeing this today I now understand and have a much greater appreciation of this craft. I even felt inspired enough to try this myself. Thank you for the positive ideas.
prudentpennypincher.com says
I’m so sorry to hear about your mother. I’m glad that you were inspired to create some painted rocks too, though! Have fun crafting 🙂
Ellen Fisher says
Wow! I was going to put my unused garden rocks back to where I first got them. HOWEVER on my Pintrest today and I found your site. IT IS AMAZING AND THANK YOU FOR DOING THIS FOR US. My Mom 93 loves to paint and she has some really beautiful plant pots. I really would like to have her do of these rocks (your posted rock designs or her imagination). I think she would really like doing it. We live in a small town in sw Ontario and the winter is full of snowdays. WITH THE VIRUSE WE ARE STAYING HOME. I think we will paint the rocks and distribute them around town…
prudentpennypincher.com says
Hi Laura,
Thank you for bringing this to my attention! I will work on looking for those source images now. Do any belong to you? If so, I’d love to link back to you.
Monica says
I am a begginer in this but I think is the most enjoyable hobby for me Your work inspire me so much Thank you Love!
Mimi says
Thanks for sharing these wonderful rock ideas. Looking forward to doing a fun craft with grandkids.
prudentpennypincher.com says
You’re welcome 🙂 Have fun!
Linda says
Thank you Stephy. Best list with photos I found of truly reproducible garden rocks for our community space.
Jean says
Do you have book that you sale .I really like some of they rock I can’t remember all of them all are so neat
prudentpennypincher.com says
Sorry, I do not have a book. However, there are a few good rock painting books on Amazon (https://amzn.to/2XBvdf4, https://amzn.to/2XMpUK3 and https://amzn.to/2XMw2lv)
Rachel says
These are amazing! Great job! We just started our paint rock garden & we have about 30 done then I ran out of ideas. I am inspired to start back up again. Thank you for sharing
prudentpennypincher.com says
You’re welcome. Glad you like them 🙂 Have fun!
Dracey says
I’m new to rock painting and I have a question. After I painted my rock with white acrylic paint I tried drawing on it. Even with softer markers they scratch off some of the white paint showing the rock below. How can I avoid this?
prudentpennypincher.com says
Hi Dracey,
After you paint your rock, you need to use an acrylic sealer to keep the paint from coming off. Something like https://amzn.to/2LWaazb or https://amzn.to/2VwZoUy will work fine.
Mimi says
Posca paint pens.
Susan says
Great ideas! I love most all of them… Thank you for sharing.
Tracy says
Very creative.Gave me some amazing ideas. Thanks?
Kella Melton says
Great ideas thanks so much enjoying quality time with 2 amazing lady’s.k
Cathy says
What a collection of designs, great imagination and art work.! Thanks sharing………..
Julie says
These are FANTASTIC!!!
I am looking forward to using this project with my students!
Kelly @montanahappy.com says
Wow! I want to say thank you for putting me on your resource list. I really appreciate it. Great round-up of beautifully painted rocks!