Simple Rock Painting Idea for Polished Stones

My problem: Polished stones are difficult to paint because of the smooth, slick surface. (The paint doesn't want to adhere to the stone.)


My simple solution for some of the prettier, polished stones like the group pictured above:

 

Polished Stone Kitties

How to Paint Kitty Cats on Polished Stones

My supply of polished rocks included small stones with a perfect shape for a cat's face, as well as larger, colorful stones to use for the body.

Step 1: Choose a large and small stone that closely match in color. (Small triangular or round stones work well for the face; round or oval shapes work well for the body.)

Step 2: Glue the small stone onto the large stone using E-6000 glue (or similar craft adhesive).

Attach the face stone to the body with E-6000 glue

Step 3: After the glue has dried, use 3-D fabric paint in various colors to add simple details for the face and body.

3-D Fabric Paint

Add simple details to the face and body

Step 4: To keep the paint from flaking off the stone(s) you'll need to seal the rocks:

• First coat: Mod Podge (an all-in-one glue, sealer and finish)
• Second coat: Delta Ceramcoat Varnish (to avoid stickiness of Mod Podge in high humidity) 

Sealer 1: Mod Podge - Sealer 2: Delta Ceramcoat Varnish

Update: I used the brush-on sealers pictured above for the cats pictured. Since the time of this post, I still use Mod Podge as a first coat, but I now prefer Americana Duraclear Satin Varnish for my second coat.

Tips

• Before gluing the polished stones together, sand the area where they'll be attached. This will help the glue adhere better
• Apply the glue to each stone and wait approximately 2 minutes before attaching the stones together
• Press the stones together for a few minutes to make sure you have a good hold. (Be watchful of the stone sliding rather than adhering.)
• You can use a brush instead of the 3-D paint tip for applying the details. This may give you more control on smaller stones  

Ideas

• Tie a ribbon around the cat's neck
• Add a little bell on thin elastic around the kitty's neck
• Use this idea for painting other critters on polished stones
• Display your painted stone pets in little baskets or no-sew bedding

Painted Rock Pets

A PURRfect solution for polished stones!

© Cindy Thomas Painted Rocks