For stone painting, gather smooth stones, acrylic paint, paintbrushes, water cup, and sealant (Mod Podge or clear spray paint).
Ensure stones are clean and dry before painting; wash with soap and water, sand rough spots if needed.
Select designs: simple dots, stripes, or complex animals, landscapes. Seek inspiration online or in books.
Gently sketch the design with a soft pencil on the stone to plan before painting, avoiding damage.
Select a base color, paint a thin coat over the stone for a smooth surface, let it dry fully.
Paint design carefully with a small brush, starting with light colors, gradually adding darker shades, and applying multiple coats for desired opacity and color.
Enhance design with details and highlights; use a small brush for fine lines or contrasting colors, and a toothpick for dots or stars.
Allow painted stone to dry fully before final touches or sealing, taking hours or overnight depending on paint thickness.
Seal painted design with Mod Podge or clear spray paint to prevent chipping and fading over time.
Once your stone is completely dry and sealed, you can display it in your home or give it away as a gift. You can also hide it outside as part of a community rock painting project.