For many of us, rocks are plentiful in our environment and free for the taking. If you have difficulty finding stones to paint, you can:
- Enlist the help of a friend
- Purchase bags of stones
- Check out the Garden Department at local stores
Note: When you click on certain links in this post, I may receive a commission for the purchase of products.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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| Stones purchased from Home Depot |
I do not condone removing rocks from government lands or parks or a residence or business which has been landscaped with rocks.
How to Prepare Rocks and Stones for Painting
You will need to clean and (in some cases) prime your rocks prior to painting. Read more about this tip.
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| Learn how to prepare stones for painting |
How to Make Stones Stand Upright
If your rock is wobbly and you would like it to stand upright, read this tip for adding a base.
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| Learn how to add a base to stones |
What Are the Best Brushes for Rock Painting?
You can use any brush to paint rocks (and I have many) but I keep returning to the same three brushes. Learn about my favorite brushes.
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| Learn about my favorite brushes |
What Type of Paint is Best for Rocks and Stones?
Acrylic paint and craft acrylic both work well on rocks. The difference between them is the craft acrylic is thinner and more paint applications may be necessary. Learn about specialty paints you can also use on rocks.
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| Learn about specialty paints for rocks |
Can I Use Sharpies on Painted Rocks?
Regular Sharpie markers smear and change color when a sealer is applied. Learn about paint pens suitable for rocks.
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| Learn more about these paint pens |
Learn how to fix a mistake while painting a rock and after it's finished (but before it's been sealed).
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| Learn how to fix mistakes on painted rocks |
How to Seal and Protect Painted Rocks
Painted rocks beg to be picked up and admired and by applying a sealant, the colors remain true and the life of the painted rock is extended.
How to Display Painted Rocks - Store-Bought and DIY Solutions
You can display painted rocks by using wooden, metal and plastic display easels, a plate stand, or DIY stand made from drapery slip-on hooks. Learn how to make your own display stand and see other options here.
Optional Household Items
Can't Draw? No Problem
Create colorful painted stones with this no-draw technique.
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| Learn how to paint these stones - no drawing required |
You can trace a pattern onto a rock and paint it.
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| Learn how to trace a pattern onto a rock |
Where to Find Rock Painting Ideas
- Tutorials
- Free Lessons
- Rock Art!: Painting and Crafting with the Humble Pebble
- Lin Wellford Rock Painting Books
Note: When you click on certain links in this post, I may receive a commission for the purchase of products.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
My Favorite Tools and Supplies
I use these tools and supplies regularly to paint rocks and recommend them. (I may receive a commission for the purchase of products when you click on certain links in this post.)
- Caribbean Beach Pebbles - I love painting on these semi-smooth, white stones
- Liquitex Super Heavy Gesso - Primes my pitted stones
- Nail Art Brush Set - These are great for getting paint into the tight spaces of my design(s)
- Royal & Langnickel Script Liner Brush - My go-to brush for painting thin lines and detailing
- Sakura Pigma Micron Pen - I use the 08 size for writing on stones
- Posca Paint Pens - The best markers for painted rocks
- Embossing-Stylus Set - For tracing a design onto a rock with graphite transfer paper and also used as dotting tools
- Paint Eraser - A handy tool for wiping away mistakes while the paint is still wet
- E6000 Glue - Attaches stones together
- Americana DuraClear Satin Varnish - My favorite brush-on sealer
- Pink Soap - Conditions my brushes to extend their life
