Rock Painting Ideas – Everything Beginners Need to Know

Rock painting has existed for thousands of years throughout human culture. Some of the earliest works of art were created on stone walls, or on rocks and stones of all sizes. Much like rocks themselves, the creativity applied to painted rocks can last for generations, making for a great craft project that you’ll be able to keep forever.

If you’ve been looking for a new hobby, something fun to do with your kids, or if you want a new and unique way to release your creativity, then some simple and easy rock painting ideas could be exactly what you need.

Rock painting for beginners requires only a small investment, and the fun that you get out of it is something that you can’t put a price on. From how to prepare rocks for painting, to unique rock painting ideas for beginners, this is the only guide you’ll need when you’re getting started.

What is Rock Painting?

Rock painting is the simple act of creating art on stone. Just like all forms of painting, you could approach rock painting with simple and colorful designs, or even more intricate artwork if you have the time and patience. With large flat rocks, you could paint whole scenes just as you would on a canvas. On smaller rocks, you could create fun caricatures for kids, or attractive designs just like you would on painted Easter Eggs.

There are no rules when it comes to rock painting, which is why the activity is becoming more popular every year. It’s suitable for all the family and kids of all ages, and the finished rocks can be displayed proudly in your home, or even given as gifts.

The only tricky thing about rock painting is getting started, and even that is simple once you have all the basic tips and ideas. If you’ve considered rock painting but didn’t know how to prepare rocks for painting, or what type of paint you should use, then the following tips will get you on your way.

The Benefits When You Learn Rock Painting for Beginners

Rock painting is not only fun, it’s also therapeutic and can stimulate brain activity. For both adults and kids, rock painting is a truly rewarding experience that comes with many benefits.

• Painting, even on rocks, can improve your concentration and help you to focus.
• When you learn how to do rock painting you will improve your fine motor skills, allowing you to become more adept at any skillful task that requires precise hand movements. You’ll become a better artist and could build the foundation skills that help you to type, learn a musical instrument, or operate complex mechanisms.
• As you learn rock painting you’ll likely learn a lot about diverse cultures and periods of history. You could look to rock paintings from before the modern age as inspiration, or you may want to look at contemporary or classic art to get fresh ideas.
• Rock painting is relaxing and can be a great stress reliever. Learning how to do rock painting for beginners could take your mind off stressful life events or simply help you to disconnect and unwind after an exhausting day. Rock painting also relaxes children and it could be a positive outlet for overactive kids.
• Learning rock painting boosts creativity at any age. You’ll constantly learn new ways to approach your painting and could improve your abstract thinking. For kids, rock painting is a wonderful way to boost creativity by allowing for self-expression.
• Rock painting builds confidence! When you finish a new rock, you’ll see the result of your hard work and focus. With each completed project, there’s a sense of self reward that is incredibly uplifting.

With so many benefits to rock painting (and we haven’t even covered them all!) there’s no reason why you shouldn’t get started today with rock painting ideas for beginners and kids.

How to Find Rocks for Painting

Rock hunting can become a fun activity for all the family. Even just around your home and neighborhood you’ll come across hundreds of rocks that could be perfect for painting. The shape and texture of rocks could be inspiration for your next piece of artwork. Rocks that wash up on the shores or around riverbeds are generally smooth and rounded, whereas small rocks on walking trails are often rough edged and sometimes have flatter surfaces.

There are no good or bad rocks to paint with – just find the perfect shape that catches your eye!

In National and most State Parks it is forbidden to remove rocks and other natural features from the environment, so check your local rules. If you can’t get rocks locally, then head to your nearest garden or landscaping supplier. You’ll find a whole range of all shapes and sizes, and the cost for a small quantity of rocks is very reasonable.

Craft rocks for painting are also available from craft shops and online retailers anywhere in the world.

How to Prepare Rocks for Painting

Rocks should be washed and scrubbed thoroughly, especially if you’ve picked them up from a trail, along a beach or lakeshore, or even from a riverbed.

A quick rinse in cool water will be enough to remove most of the dirt and debris that can collect on rocks. You can then scrub the rocks with a toothbrush or any soft bristled cleaning brush. Particularly dirty rocks can be soaked and cleaned with a mild hand soap or dishwashing detergent. Avoid using chemical cleaners as they could be absorbed by porous rocks.

Rocks need to be dried thoroughly before painting. Hand dry with a towel and then set the rocks outside in the sun, turning them occasionally until they are completely dry.

Paints to Use When You Try Rock Painting Ideas for Beginners

The paints you use will be important for your first rock painting project. You’ll need acrylic paints to get long lasting vibrant colors that easily adhere to the rock surface. You’ll also need to consider a base coat for your projects.

Base coat is all down to your personal preference and the type of rocks that you are working with. If you have fallen in love with the shape and feel of a rock that is porous with hundreds of small holes, then a base coat is recommended. This will stop your paint from being absorbed, which could lead to an uneven finish. A simple black or white base coat will be perfect for porous rocks.

Choose a darker base coat if you will be working with colors like reds, greys, and greens. If you want a more vibrant result, then use white for your base coat. Spray on base coats or brush applied coats are fine, so just work with what you have available. Note that children should not use paint sprays, so you’ll need to prepare your rocks in advance, spraying them evenly on all sides in a well-ventilated area.

Modern craft products make rock painting easier than ever before, especially when it comes to the paints that are available. If you are more comfortable drawing with pencils, pens, or charcoal, then you may prefer to use a paint pen. This will allow you to apply your designs in a way that is fun and familiar. Paint pens are also great for kids. If you have a child who loves drawing with crayons, pencils, and pens, then a paint pen will be perfect for simple and easy rock painting ideas.

Brushes also work well, and there are plenty of options out there. It pays to have a selection of brushes of varying sizes on hand. Larger brushes are perfect for filling in areas of the rock, and you can use finer brushes for detailing. For kids, working with a variety of brushes will allow them to explore their full creativity.

Should You Seal Your Rocks When You’re Done with Painting?

Sealing can add a gorgeous finish that reflects light and protects the artwork underneath. An aerosol sealer is a good idea if you are painting regularly, or even if you are painting in a group with friends and family. Aerosol seal coats should only be applied by adults in a well-ventilated area. Brush on sealers can also be used. Look for one that is designed specifically for artwork and that is UV resistant.

Rock Painting Ideas for Beginners

Now that we’ve covered rock hunting, preparation, and paints, it’s time to get started with your first rock painting ideas for beginners. Again, there are absolutely no rules, and you should let your creativity run free, especially when painting with children. Use these simple ideas as a starting point and see where your rock painting journey takes you!

• Paint a House Rock – Have you found a rock with the perfect shape and just a hint of a triangular roof? Paint a house façade for an attractive decoration rock. Add doors, windows, the shape of the roof, and you could even use a fine brush to add details like flowers and bushes. This is one of the best early rock painting ideas for kids.
• Create a Rock Family – Another one of the best rock painting ideas for kids is the rock family. You could even do this one as a group project. Find the perfect shaped rocks to create mini caricatures of everyone in the home.
• Smiley Rocks – Here’s a great simple idea to get you into your new-found hobby. Paint classic smiley faces and emojis onto rocks and you can bring your favorite instant message characters to life.
• Ladybugs – These cute critters are perfect for rock painting. They’re simple when you are learning how to paint rocks, and the designs can become more intricate as you get more comfortable. You could even add other craft supplies like glitter or stick on googly eyes for more

Rock Painting 101: What You Need

• A variety of smooth rocks, shells, or other rocks. Start with a few rocks that are roughly the same size.
  If you’d like to start with a bowl of pebbles and shells, you can also use some of these:
• Water color paints on paper plates (if you’re taking this outside please use paper plates rather than plastic)
• Paintbrushes, sponges, or paint sticks (optional)

1. Sea Glass Colored Painted Rocks: – Start with an oval or round smooth rock that is roughly the same size.

• Cover your rock with sea glass and let it dry.
• Paint your rock blue, green, or purple.
• Let the paint dry completely before handling it again.

1. Moon Painted Rocks: – Start with a smooth rock that is roughly the same size.

• Add water to a shallow bowl and mix in some blue food coloring (this works best if the water is well mixed beforehand).
• Dip an unbroken shell into the mixture and rub it all over your rock to make the moon shape on one side of your rock and to make smaller dots on top of each other as you approach the edge of this shape (you can skip this step if you aren’t using shells).
• Let the paint dry before handling the rock again.

1. Sand Painted Rocks: – Start with a smooth rock that is roughly the same size.

• Add water to a shallow bowl and mix in some blue food coloring.
• Dip your rock into the mixture and twist it against the side of the bowl to make a crisscross pattern with each dip.
• Allow to dry completely and then add other colors or patterns if you like!

1. Sea Glass Painted Rocks: – Start with an oval, round, or square smooth rock that is roughly the same size (or you could use sea glass). If you are using sea glass, make sure it is well cleaned and not broken.

• Choose the sides you’d like to paint and add a small amount of paint to a paper plate.
• Dip an unbroken shell into the paint and then rub it all over the rock.
• Let the paint dry before handling it again.

1. Lopsided Painted Rocks: – Start with an oval, round, or square smooth rock that is roughly the same size (or you could use sea glass). If you are using sea glass, make sure it is well cleaned and not broken.

• Choose the sides you’d like to paint and add a small amount of paint to a paper plate.
• Dip an unbroken shell in the paint and then rub it all over the rock.
• Allow to dry completely and then add other colors or patterns if you like!

1. Random Lines Painted Rocks: – Start with an oval, round, or square smooth rock that is roughly the same size (or you could use sea glass). If you are using sea glass, make sure it is well cleaned and not broken.

• Use a sponge to paint random lines all over your rock until it looks the way you want it to!

1. Fan Painted Rocks: – Start with an oval, round, or square smooth rock that is roughly the same size.

• Choose the sides you’d like to paint and add a small amount of paint to a paper plate.
• Dip a small, flat brush into the paint and then dab it quickly on the rock.
• Try different designs like stripes, zigzags, or dots.

1. Rainbow Painted Rocks: – Start with an oval, round, or square smooth rock that is roughly the same size (or you could use sea glass). If you are using sea glass, make sure it is well cleaned and not broken.

• Add water to a shallow bowl and mix in some blue food coloring.
• Dip your rock in the mixture until it is covered in a thick coat of watercolor paint.
• Allow to dry completely and then add other colors or patterns if you like!

1. Circle Painted Rocks: – Start with an oval, round, or square smooth rock that is roughly the same size (or you could use sea glass). If you are using sea glass, make sure it is well cleaned and not broken.

• Add water to a shallow bowl and mix in some blue food coloring.
• Dip your rock into the mixture and then rub in a circular pattern to cover it completely. Allow to dry.

1. Petal Painted Rocks: – Start with an oval, round, or square smooth rock that is roughly the same size (or you could use sea glass). If you are using sea glass, make sure it is well cleaned and not broken.

• Use a paintbrush or the point of a spoon to dab paint onto your rock, leaving little dots in random patterns.
• Let dry completely and then add other colors or patterns if you like!

1. Pumpkin Painted Rocks: – Start with an oval, round, or square smooth rock that is roughly the same size.

• Add water to a shallow bowl and mix in some orange food coloring.
• Dip your rock into the mixture and then rub in a pumpkin shape. Allow to dry completely and then add other colors or patterns if you like!

1. Spooky Painted Rocks: – Start with an oval, round, or square smooth rock that is roughly the same size.

• Add water to a shallow bowl and mix in some black food coloring.
• Dip your rock into the mixture until it is covered in a thick coat of paint.
• Allow to dry completely and then add other colors or patterns if you like!

1. Birthday Cake Painted Rocks: – Start with an oval, round, or square smooth rock that is roughly the same size.

• Add water to a shallow bowl and mix in some red food coloring.
• Dip your rock into the mixture until it is covered in a thick coat of paint.
• Allow to dry completely and then add other colors or patterns if you like!

How do you prepare rocks for painting?

1. Sand – The first step in painting rocks is to prepare them for paint. A good way to do this with smooth rocks is to first sand them down. If you have ragged, rough, or chipped rocks you may want to skip this step and start straight with the painting process. 
2. Soak – The second step is to soak your rocks in warm water for 10-30 minutes. If your rock is still rough or has hard dirt particles on it, let it soak longer so that the water can soften the rock and loose dirt particles can come off with the water when it drains out of the bottom of your container. 
3. Paint – Once your rocks are completely dry and clean, they are ready to get painted! Add paint on top of the rocks where you want colors to appear. Then, with a brush or a stick that is almost dry (or just barely damp), gently wipe the paint off and watch it magically appear on the rock!
4. Wet Paint – Be sure to only use wet paint when painting on rocks because once it dries, it’s stuck! If you accidentally get some dried or old paint on your rock before painting with fresh colors, use a wet brush to wipe it off.

Will acrylic paint work on rocks?

Yes, it definitely will! Acrylic paint is a water-based paint, meaning it’s safe to use on rocks directly over the water. Many of the natural colors and glazes we carry are acrylics. Just try to avoid sharp objects or rough surfaces when applying paint for best results. Oil based paints will generally not work on rocks directly. It’s best to dilute any oil based product with an acrylic colorant and dilute them in a palette before painting onto rocks with the oil on it.
Can I use latex paint outdoors?
Latex paints have been used effectively as an outdoor paint for many years because of their ability to stick in areas that are very humid and can dry quickly in direct sunlight (like water).

How do you seal painted rocks?

If you would like to preserve your painted rocks you can seal them with a water-based or silicone based sealer. Silicone based sealers give a glossy look while water-based sealers give a shiny finish. You can also use an acrylic matte spray to give it an interesting sheen or pattern.

Can I paint rocks in direct sunlight?

It is recommended that you leave clear acrylic paint alone in direct sunlight as the paint may begin to melt, bubble, and dry out. However, it is fine to paint on your painted rocks during the day (outside) and let them completely dry before putting them away for storage.

What is the best paint to use on rocks?

It all depends on the type of paint you are using and how much of it you are using on the rock. If you are painting smooth rocks or use a very small amount of paint, you can use most acrylic paints. A good rule of thumb is to test your paint on a paper plate first to make sure it doesn’t run too quickly through your brush. Try to use a watercolor brush if possible as it will hold less paint and not dry out as much as other brushes which may cause the entire rock to be textured instead of smooth.

What paint do you use on painted rocks?

We use water-based acrylic paint on our painted rocks. Acrylics are ideal for smooth rocks because they dry quickly and don’t take a lot of paint to cover them. Acrylic paints are also the most economical and, in some cases, more durable than oils.

How do you achieve that crumbly look when painting on rocks?

In order to achieve a crumbly look when painting on rocks you will need something very thin to paint with as well as a thin consistency of paint (like watercolors or tempera). If you try using thick paints like acrylic or oil on rocks it won’t work at all! You can also also use a thin brush and wipe off some of the paint after each stroke.

How do you paint simple rocks?

In order to paint simple rocks you will need to use a thin consistency of paint (like watercolors or tempera). An easy way to achieve this is to add water or an acrylic diluent (also called an extender) to your paint. Make sure not to add too much water otherwise your paint will run out of the brush in big globs!

How do you paint and Seal Rocks?

All painted rocks should be sealed. This will help to protect them from the elements and make them last longer. There are a few ways you can seal your rocks depending on the look you are going for. Water-based sealers will give it a shiny finish while silicone-based sealers give a slightly glossy look.

Do Sharpies work on rocks?

Yes, Sharpies will work on rocks. We recommend using a FINE tip Sharpie marker. This will help it draw into the rock instead of just sitting on top of it!

What to use to write on rocks?

Sharpies are a popular marker to use with rocks. They will work fine but they will not write on wet paint. If you want to write on top of wet painted rocks, you can try using waterproof liquid chalk markers which you can purchase at most art stores and craft stores.

Does acrylic paint wash off rocks?

Acrylic paint can be very difficult to wash off rocks, especially when it is wet. One way to remove acrylic paint from rocks is to use a soft bristled brush and gently scrub the area until the paint comes off. Another method of removal is to use hair spray or rubbing alcohol on a cloth and gently wipe or scrub at the painted area to remove it.

What is the best sealant for rock painting?

The most popular sealer right now is a water-based acrylic sealer. This will preserve and protect your painted rocks and give them a shiny finish. However, it should be noted that most of these acrylic sealers will make your rock extremely slippery so don’t stand on them or you may fall!

How do you seal Sharpie on rocks?

Sharpies can work fine on rocks as long as it’s a metallic grey or black marker. It can also be sealed with very thin water-based acrylic paint. However, if you want to seal with other colors of Sharpie or use a thicker consistency of paint, you will need to use a water-based acrylic sealer such as Bestine (pronounced BEST-in). This is the best way to protect your Sharpie from drying out and fading over time.

Can colored pencils work on rocks?

Yes, colored pencils can be used on rocks. The best way to color on rocks is to use the side of the pencil instead of the tip because you will have more control and it won’t leave hard streaks. You can also use a colorless blender pencil to blend colors together.

Can I write on rocks with a Sharpie?

Yes, you can write on rocks with Sharpie markers. We recommend using metallic or grey colored Sharpies (do not use black unless it’s a metallic one). They should be able to be sealed successfully with acrylic sealers like Bestine if not used outdoors or directly in water.

How do you waterproof painted rocks?

For best results and to preserve your painted rocks we recommend using a water-based acrylic sealer. The water-based sealers will be the most economical and it’s also the most long lasting of the two types of sealers. If you would like to use a silicone sealer, you must apply a water-based base coat first and then let it dry completely before applying the silicone.

Can I put painted rocks in the freezer?

Yes, you can put your painted rocks in the freezer if you want to keep them from drying out or creating unwanted surface cracks. Just make sure to let them completely dry before placing them in a secure container or plastic bag.

How do you clean dried paint off of rocks?

If you are using acrylic paint, you can use rubbing alcohol on a cloth to remove dried paint that has adhered to your rock. Be sure to work away from the edges because if you get it in there too much it may ruin the rock! If you are using ink or colored pencils, you can fill a small bowl with warm water and turn your rock over for about 30 seconds until rust-colored water drips out. Then use a clean cloth to wipe away the remaining marks.

What is the best way to remove Sharpie marker from rocks?

The best way to remove Sharpie marker off of rocks is with water and rubbing alcohol or paint thinner. If you are using a metallic colored Sharpie, you can also use a dry erase eraser. After you have removed the dried on marker, we recommend sealing it with a water-based acrylic sealer to prevent damage from sun and moisture exposure.

What to use to draw on rocks?

A good tip to remember is that you should never draw on rocks with a paint made for painting surfaces like oil-paints, latex paints, or enamel paints. One of the best ways to draw on rocks is with colored pencils. Just make sure that you use the side of the pencils for drawing instead of the tips so you can get more control and they won’t leave hard streaks behind.

How do you create a marbleized effect on your rocks?

To create a marbleized effect it is best to use an opaque or semi-opaque paint like watercolor or acrylic paint. You will need to add a few drops of water to each color before mixing it together in a palette (or small container).

Does Hairspray seal acrylic paint?

No, hairspray is not a good sealer for acrylic paint. Acrylic paints are made to dry immediately. Hairspray acts as a barrier that keeps the paint from drying out. If you are using acrylics and want to keep them from drying out, we recommend using Bestine (pronounced BEST-in) which is an acrylic sealer that works great for preserving your painted rocks!

What should you use to make rocks look black?

This can be achieved by using a mixture of either colorless blender pencil or colorless watercolor pencil to blend the colors together on top of an opaque paint like watercolor or acrylic paint.

Do gel pens work on rocks?

Gel pens will work on rocks. This is a great medium for writing or drawing on painted rocks. They are waterproof when dry, so you can use them right on top of other paint and they won’t smudge or bleed through like regular markers often do.

Painting on rocks is very rewarding and addictive when done right. As a matter of fact, many people discover that painting on rocks can be the best indoor or outdoor hobby ever!

One thing to keep in mind is that you don’t want to ruin nature by taking rocks from rivers, lakes, or streams. You can always find a rock somewhere else! When you are searching for a rock to paint on, it’s best if you look for them in public places as you will find more variety that way than if you were to gather rocks from your own backyard.

As the popularity of painted rocks grows, we are sure there will be more tips and tricks developed over time as well as many new products available.

Additional Rock Painting Resources:

• 100+ easy rock painting ideas that will inspire you – Rock Painting 101 (rockpainting101.com)
• 50 Easy Rock Painting Ideas for Beginners – Fabulessly Frugal – Got rocks that you want to get painted? Get INSPIRED by these 50 rock art painting ideas! 👊Cute painted designs for rocks and stones – great for beginners! (fabulesslyfrugal.com)
• 280 Rock Painting Ideas – Feb 3, 2019 – painted rock ideas easy painted rock ideas creative painted rock ideas inspirational painted rock ideas patterns painted rock ideas for kids painted  … (id.pinterest.com)
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• Over 40 of the BEST Rock Painting Ideas – Over 40 of the BEST Rock Painting Ideas including animals, wall hangings, food, garden markers, decor, and amazing stone art! (kitchenfunwithmy3sons.com)
• 75 Painted Rock Ideas in 2021 – Jan 23, 2021 – Fun ideas for painting rocks – for kids and adults!. See more ideas about rock crafts, paint rock, painted rocks. (pinterest.com.au)
• Awesome and Easy Rock Painting Ideas for Family Fun – Join in the rock painting craze with these awesome and easy rock painting ideas. Super easy and we’ve got lots of inspiration to get you started. (familydaystriedandtested.com)
• 35+ Best Painted Rock Ideas & Inspiration For 2021 – Crazy Laura – Looking for the perfect rock hunt design or just want an easy DIY project for the kids? Check out these super fun painted rock ideas for inspiration! (crazylaura.com)
• 5 Fun Rock Painting Ideas! ☀️ Summer Craft Ideas – YouTube – Jul 26, 2018 … This video shows some rock painting ideas and step-by-step instructions on how to do them! They vary in difficulty, but if you want to make them … (youtube.com)
• Easy Rock Painting Ideas for Kindness Rocks Project – Do you need rock painting ideas for spreading rocks around your neighborhood or the Kindness Rocks Project? Here’s inspiration and tips! (modpodgerocksblog.com)
• 140 Rock Painting Patterns ideas in 2021 – Apr 21, 2021 – Pictures for painting rocks. See more ideas about painted rocks, rock crafts, stone painting. (pinterest.ca)
• 15 Easy Rock Painting Ideas that Are Beautiful – Whether you’re hoping to create some simple, cost effective decor for your home or just hoping for fun crafts to do with your kids, rock painting is an (wonderfuldiy.com)
• 450 DIY Painted Rock Ideas in 2021 – Apr 24, 2021 – Easy DIY stone and rock art ideas. Including painted rocks for kids, for the garden, with words and inspirational quotes. Fun ideas with rocks and … (pinterest.ca)
• 900+ Rock painting ideas in 2021 – Jan 3, 2021 – Explore Stephanie Smith’s board “Rock painting ideas”, followed by 508 people on Pinterest. See more ideas about painted rocks, rock crafts, … (pinterest.nz)
• 29+ Easy Rock Painting Ideas for Beginners – The rock painting movement is becoming popular with experienced and beginning painters alike!  Once you discover rock painting, t… (ilovepaintedrocks.com)
• Painting Rocks – Best Supplies for Painting and Decorating Rocks – Painting rocks is easier than it looks and it’s also quite addicting once you get started. It can be difficult to figure out the best supplies and techniques so I thought I’d create a guide based on my experience. For years I sold my painted stones on Etsy, but now I prefer to share what I’ve learne… (colormadehappy.com)
• 50+ Super Fun And Creative Rock Painting Ideas – Smart Fun DIY – Rock Painting Ideas – Check out these 50+ Useful Painted Rock Ideas Smart Fun DIY. The painted rock trend is going strong this year. But what are people doing with all of these painted rocks? (smartfundiy.com)
• 100+ Artistro Rock Painting Ideas: Creating Marvelous Infinity Stones – Inspired by Artistro 100+ great rock art ideas! Transform rocks into original interior decoration, landscape design elements and intriguing gifts for friends. (artistro.com)
• 50+ Awesome Rock Painting Ideas – Frugal Fun For Boys and Girls – A huge collection of painted rock ideas that kids will love! Plus, info on where to find your rocks and what supplies to use. (frugalfun4boys.com)
• 43 Awesome Rock Painting Ideas and Activities for Kids – Have you found a painted rock in your community? It’s a sweet reminder that kind gestures DO happen. Return the favor with these awesome rock painting ideas (mamainthenow.com)