How to Make Molds for Simulated Rock

Simulated rocks are used for driveway pavers and paths in landscaping. These flat-surfaced rocks are made using various lightweight materials and mixed with cement to add strength and durability. Making a mold is the starting point to creating your simulated rocks. You'll need to delineate the area for each rock and then create a separate mold for each one. For large or complex projects, it's advisable to draw your design on paper prior to starting. Make the molds where you plan to use them to get the perfect size, shape and fit for adjacent rocks.

Roll of string
Shovel
Wheelbarrow
Hand rake
Plastic edging
Heavy sheers
Edging stakes
Hammer (optional)
Chicken wire mesh
Wire cutters

Instructions

- 1
  Outline the borders for simulated rocks using a roll of string. Place string along a path, patio, or other area where the rocks will be permanently situated.
- 2
  Level paver shaped areas inside the string borders to provide a smooth base for each simulated rock. Dig to a depth of 4-inches using a shovel, discarding soil and grass into a wheelbarrow, and hand-rake the resulting bare earth. Remove the string borders after the interlocking rock shapes have been sculpted.
- 3
  Unravel a stretch of 5- or 6-inch high plastic edging from the roll and circle it around the delineated rock borders. Cut the plastic edging from the roll using heavy sheers. Rest the edging grooves onto the flat soil and drive the accompanying stakes through them to secure it into place, using a hammer if necessary.
- 4
  Reinforce the base of each rock shaped mold with chicken wire mesh to add body and strength to the finished simulated rock products. Lay a flat sheet of wire mesh over the mold borders and trim to size using wire cutters. Allow the mesh to fit up to the sides of the plastic edging borders, but do not allow it to extend over.

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