These irresistible painted rock ideas are great arts and crafts projects for kids and adults. See how easy and fun it is to paint your favorite quotes or draw beautiful designs on rocks, and make them into unique home garden decor and gifts!
Last week I thought about painting some rocks for a fun art project, and was doing research on rock painting. I really did not expect to find so many creative and beautiful painted rock ideas and projects!
This post was totally spontaneous because I just have to share all the inspirations with you! ( Some of the helpful resources are affiliate links. Full disclosure here. )
Basic art supplies to paint rocks.
Acrylic paint and simple paint brushes are the most commonly used. Acrylic paint pens and white paint pens are great for details and lettering. For garden decor, use outdoor acrylic paint.
*Some resources in article are affiliate links. Full disclosure here.
Primers and sealers are not always necessary, as you will see in the tutorials next. If you can’t find smooth stones, you can purchase river rocks and pebbles for painting here.
1. How to paint mandalas on rocks
Some of my favorite rock paintings are mandala paintings and drawings. Mandalas are called patterns of the universe. These painted rocks made with acrylic paint pens and white paint pens are great gifts and decor to inspire a sense of peace in our daily environments. (Via Color Made Happy)
2. Drawing on pebbles and stones
Doodling is such an enjoyable art activity. Get some white ink or white paint pens, and create these mesmerizing detailed drawings on rocks. (Via MagaMerlina and video tutorial below)
You may also love: how to paint flowers and trees on black paper!
3. Feel good words kindness rock painting ideas
We often hear about random act of kindness. Place these painted stones in random places. They will for sure spark joy in the luck people who find them! Just remember to respect the rules of places like national parks where we are not allowed to collect or leave things. (Via Paint HappyRocks |Plaid )
4. Inspiring quotes painted rock ideas
Need creative ways to use affirmations and reminders? Paint your favorite quotes on rocks with white paint pens over colors and use them as daily dose of inspiration. (Via Shrimp Salad Circus | Plaid )
5. Create a cactus garden with painted rocks
Even green thumbs can kill plants. This cute cactus garden made of painted rocks using green paint and white paint pens will thrive in any conditions!
6. Family portrait painted rock ideas
What a heart warming gift and decor idea here with painted rock people and animal glued onto a wood slice! This makes me want to gather lots of pebbles and river rocks, and paint all my friends and family members!
7. Herb garden markers painted rock ideas
Use outdoor acrylic paint and white paint pens to make one of a kind garden decorations that are also functional as garden labels. (Via Esty | August Wren)
8. Rock painting vegetable garden signs
It is really fun to paint vegetables. These painted stones with veggie art and the herb garden markers would be great gifts for friends who love gardening! (Via Whimsy Love)
9. Ladybugs and bumble bees painted rock ideas for the garden
A garden is a magical place. Make these pained rock ladybugs and bumble bees as magical little decorations for a garden. (Via Crafts by Amanda | Easy Peasy and Fun)
10. Paint animals on pebbles
Another fun craft project for kids and the whole family. Everyone loves painted fox, bear and owl! (Via DecoArt | Lil Blue Boo)
11. Boho folk art painted rock ideas
Boho style is inspired by global influences with arts and crafts using natural materials. These painted rocks with folk art motifs would look beautiful in a bohemian style space. (Via Color Made Happy | Lil Blue Boo)
12. Painted rock “Easter eggs”
River rocks already look like eggs! Use dimensional paint in squeeze bottles to add colors, textures and decorative details for creative Easter egg decorations! Video tutorial-
13. Holiday wishes lettering on rocks
Hand letter some beautiful holiday phrases on stones and pebbles. Include them in your gifts or use them as holiday decorations. Tutorial here.
14. Christmas art painted rock ideas
Christmas is such a magical time of year filled with joy and creativity! These Christmas rock art would also make great stocking stuffers and gift box toppers!
15. Gingerbread houses rock painting
Another fun Christmas craft for kids and family here: painting rock gingerbread houses!