Jenni Donley
Hello from Creswell Rocks!
Painting and hiding rocks is a fun way to engage the whole family, get out and about in Creswell, and brighten the day of someone else in our community.
Here are some tips on getting started painting rocks:
1. Find smooth, flat rocks. These will give you the best surface to create your artwork on.
2. Wash the rocks with soap and water and let them dry completely.
3. Choose your paints! Acrylic craft paint or paint pens work great. You can find these paints at craft stores like Michael’s and JoAnn’s, or in the craft sections of retail outlets like Wal-Mart, Dollar General, and Bi-Mart.
4. Soft-bristled craft paint brushes work best to create designs. Paint pens are great for detailed work, lettering, and outlining. Arteza or POSCA brand pens give the best color coverage and can be found on Amazon.com or at local art stores. Michael’s carries a less expensive brand that works great for beginners.
5. When using red, orange, yellow, or light pink paints it’s best to primer your rock with 2 to 3 coats of white paint first. This will result in brighter, more vibrant finished artwork.
6. Let the paint dry completely in between coats. Having a small table-top fan to place your rocks in front of will speed up the drying time.
7. Mark the back of your rocks with a personal touch. This can include your initials or name, along with an invite to keep or re-hide the rock. Also invite the finder of the rock to take a picture of it and post at Creswell Rocks #CPR on Facebook.
8. When you’re done painting it’s important to seal your rocks so they can withstand the elements. When using spray sealer, it’s best to use a clear glaze enamel such as Krylon or Rust-Oleum. (Clear spray paint itself does not hold up over time.) When spraying, hold the can 8-10 inches away from your rock and apply at least 2 coats on each side. Make sure you’ve sealed all around the rock to avoid moisture getting underneath the paint. Always spray paint outdoors. There are brush-on sealers that can be used as well. These include Mod Podge Outdoor, Liquitex, Varathayne Spar Urathane, and Rust-Oleum Painter’s Touch Clear Gloss. When using these sealers apply 2 thin coats to each side. After you’ve sealed your rock let it cure inside for a few days. Allowing your rock to completely cure (dry) is the best way to ensure your artwork stays protected from the sun and rain.
9. You can share your rocks with others simply by hiding them around town in public areas. Do not hide rocks on private or commercial property without the owner’s permission. You can also drop your rocks off at “Take 1 Leave 1” stations, where you are invited to leave your rock and take a rock someone else has left. There are 3 stations in Creswell. For more information on these stations please visit Creswell Rocks on Facebook.
10. When you find rocks, make sure to post a picture on the Creswell Rocks Facebook page and let the artist know they are appreciated!
11. Now more than ever, please remember to sanitize your rocks with soap and water before hiding, and to sanitize the rocks you take home. As always be sure to wash your hands!
The most important part about rock painting is to have fun and bring happiness to others in our community. Creswell Rocks loves new members and are always here to answer any other questions you may have!
Your art is perfect.
