How Waverly Semi-Gloss Paints Performed on a Rock

I learned about Waverly paints from a fellow rock painter and thought I'd give them a try. They're available exclusively at Walmart in 2 oz. plastic bottles for less than $1.50 per bottle.

Plaid (the manufacturer) describes the paint as:

• Semi-gloss
• Highly pigmented
• High-performance
• Durable
• Fade-resistant
• Ideal for indoor and outdoor DIY craft projects
• Works on decorative glass, wood, paper mache, terra cotta, concrete, and plastic

The hues I purchased were: Plaster (off white), Agave (blue), Rhubarb (coral), and Ink (black). (I was tempted to purchase more because all the colors were so pretty.)

For my test, I applied the plaster (off white) to one side of my stone as a base coat. I then painted small squares using the other 3 colors on both sides of the stone.

The results:

• The coverage was good on both sides of the stone (although it took 2 applications of paint)
• The paints had an ammonia odor which I did not like
• The size of the bottle's opening made it messy to pour onto a palette
• The paint is thick and would need to be thinned for detail painting
• This paint formula would have worked well for my bird bath project

Here are the Waverly Inspirations Super Premium Semi-Gloss Acrylic Paint hues, however, some shades may not be available at your local Walmart.

Waverly Inspirations Super Premium Semi-Gloss Acrylic Paint Hues

Have you used these paints? Let me know what you think of them or how you've used them on rocks. 

Helpful Link: Waverly Inspirations Super Premium Semi-Gloss Acrylic Paints web page

© Cindy Thomas Painted Rocks

Can't Find Rocks to Paint?

Some of us have an easier time finding rocks to paint than others and now that winter weather is setting in, who wants to scrounge around outdoors for stones?


Tip: Visit the Garden Department of your local stores

• Walmart
• Home Depot
• Lowes
• etc. 

to see if they have any landscaping pebbles, stones, or rocks they want to get rid of.


On a recent trip to my local Walmart, I discovered many torn bags of landscaping stones stacked near the Garden Center. When I inquired about them, I was told the torn bags were being returned for a credit, however, if I wished to purchase some, I could do so for 1/2 price.

Tip: Try to negotiate for a discount if you live in an area where winter is setting in and landscaping is the last thing on a homeowner's mind. 


These decorative, landscaping stones are the type of rocks which make my eyes light up:

• Smooth
• Unpolished
• 2-3 inches in size
• Various shapes

Here's just a small portion from the bag I purchased which have been washed and set out to dry.

Landscaping stones purchased for a discount at Walmart

Tip: Be aware that polished stones found in craft stores are pretty, however, paint doesn't adhere to them easily. It may require sanding, priming, and a few coats of paint if you use these type of store-bought pebbles.


Now I have a large supply of rocks, stones and pebbles to keep me busy painting during the winter while I'm stuck indoors.


Idea: If I paint rock garden decor, perhaps Spring will be here before I know it.


© Cindy Thomas Painted Rocks