How to Construct a Steel Cage for Artificial Rock

Build a lopsided rectangle from lathe. Cut the lathe into two 9-inch sections, two 10-inch sections, two 12-inch sections, one 11-inch section and one 13-inch section.

Assemble a lopsided rectangle from the cut lathe. It does not matter how they are put together as long as a rectangular cube is completed.

Cut five 14-by-14-inch rectangles from the chicken wire.

Begin by covering the top of the lopsided rectangular cube with the 14-by-14-inch panel. Line two edges of the chicken wire on the wood frame. Pull, push and bend the chicken wire to create an organic shape for the outside of the rock. Staple the remaining two edges to the wooden frame. Repeat this process with the four sides. The bottom is left open.

Turn the rock form so the bottom is accessible. Crumple newspaper and place it against the chicken wire. Tape into place with duct tape. The newspaper helps to hold the concrete mixture on the outside of the rock and around the chicken wire.

Place the artificial rock cage on a flat surface with the opening at the bottom prior to adding the stone mixture to the surface.