Painted Rocks - An Experiment with Shaving Cream and Acrylics

Coloring eggs is a traditional Easter holiday activity that children enjoy and I wondered if something different could be done using rocks instead of hard-boiled eggs. 

I came across this idea using shaving cream and acrylic paints and decided to experiment with stones instead of paper.

This video also shows the process.

My 1st try using shaving cream & acrylic paint on paper

 My 1st result using a stone (smeared by my finger)

My 2nd stone with a little peach color added (streaked by squeegee)

 
I experimented a second time using different stones:

Primed, egg-shaped smooth stones and natural, flat porous stones

and a new shaving cream/acrylic paint color combination:

Shaving cream and acrylic paint swirled and ready to go

Here's the result of both attempts using the shaving cream/acrylic paint process on stones.

My results using primed and unprimed stones

What I learned:

• Stones are heavy and sink into the shaving cream so the finished design is not as pretty and marbleized as when done using paper
• If your stones are very smooth, you'll need to paint 1-2 coats of white, acrylic paint to prime them first
• Painting the stones white helps the other colors show up better 

• The stones are slippery when removing them from the shaving cream/acrylic and your fingers can "smear" some of the area when you remove them from the tray

• Removing the shaving cream with a squeegee left streaks on the rocks (I also used string and an index card and had the same results)
• This project is messy so you'll need to protect your work surface and have plenty of paper towels handy 
• Once dry, you can protect the stones with a clear, polyurethane or acrylic sealer

Even though the results weren't as pretty as I hoped, this would still be a fun painting project for kids whether you use paper or stones.

Do you have any ideas for making this work better? 

Please comment. 

© Cindy Thomas Painted Rocks

Painted Rock Nativity Sets - A Collection of Year-Round Display Ideas

Painted rock nativity sets aren't just for Christmas.

My Inspiration - Marquita's Display

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There are many ways to display painted rock nativity sets year round and during the holidays to express your unique style.

Simply place the nativity scene figures in a bookcase or on one of your tables.

Easy Year-Round Display Idea

I would advise against placing heavy rocks in a high spot. If they get knocked over they could cause injury or damage.

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Natural Displays

Here's how to display painted rock nativity scene figures year round using natural elements such as a piece of slate, wooden bowl or plate, and decorative stones.
 

Painted Rock Nativity Sets Displayed Using Natural Elements

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Candle Accessories Displays

Here's how you can display your unique, painted rock nativity scene figures year-round using candle accessories and glass gems. 

Painted Rock Nativity Sets Displayed Using Candle Accessories

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Charger Plate Displays

Place the nativity set on a metal or plastic plate and surround with greenery, glass gems, or polished river stones.

Customize this display to fit your decor with plate color choice, foliage type, gems, or rocks.

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Christmas Displays

Use an existing nativity stable and place the nativity scene figures inside.

Painted Rock Nativity Set in a Traditional Display

I found this stable at my local craft store (Hobby Lobby). Stables come in many sizes and you should be able to find one at craft or general merchandise stores

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Use an existing nativity stable and animals that came with the set.

Traditional Nativity Display with Animals

Store-bought nativity sets (stable and figures) come in many different sizes and are readily available. You can decide which pieces from the nativity set to combine with your painted rock nativity scene figures. 

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Make your own stable using balsa wood, bark, and moss.

If you want to keep a natural or hand-made theme, a simple stable can be constructed with balsa wood, moss, and bark. This rustic display would be charming in a cozy mountain cabin.

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Make your own stable using a wooden key caddy.

 
Learn how I made this nativity stable from a wooden key caddy.

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Outdoor Display

These edgestone paver nativity scene figures are sealed to withstand the outdoor elements. 

Outdoor Pavestone Nativity Scene Figures

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Painted rock nativity sets are a unique and versatile addition to your home decor any time of the year.

© Cindy Thomas Painted Rocks