How to Make Faux River Rock

Rock gardens can be centers of peace and tranquility. They often feature river rocks of several sizes, which have been polished smooth by centuries of water erosion. River rocks can be purchased or gathered, or they can be made out of molds available online and at landscaping stores. These faux rocks are made of cement, and are then stained and sealed to look like the real thing.

Rock molds
Release spray
Cement
Mixing bucket
Concrete stain
Paint brushes
Rags
Acrylic enamel spray

Instructions

- 1
  Lay the molds out with their open ends facing up. Spray a thin coat of mold release into each mold cavity.
- 2
  Mix a batch of cement according to the directions on the package. It should be thick enough to coat your fingers when dipped, but still able to be poured.
- 3
  Pour cement into each mold cavity. Tap the sides of the mold to free any trapped air bubbles, allowing them to rise to the top of the cement and break.
- 4
  Allow the cement to harden.
- 5
  Remove the rocks from the molds.
- 6
  Brush concrete stain onto each rock, then immediately wipe the excess stain off with a clean rag. Repeat this process if needed to get the desired level of color. Use a several colors and intensities for a natural variety of rocks.
- 7
  Allow the stain to dry for 24 hours.
- 8
  Spray the rocks with several thin coats of acrylic enamel spray to seal the surface and give them a smooth, polished-looking shine.

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