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Stepping stones are a functional
way to dress-up your lawn or garden and can be made into fun
craft activity for the family to make for your home or as a gift
idea.
The basic steps for construction
will be the same for all of these craft ideas. The shape of your
mold can vary and of course, the final decoration will alter
this craft, allowing you to create several other projects.
Basic Stepping Stone Supplies:
* Large Plastic Bucket or
Wheel Barrow
* 1 40 Pound bag of pre-mixed concrete
* Water
* Shovel
* Hand Trowel
* Plastic Wrap
* Mold
* Plastic Gloves
* Petroleum Jelly
Using the measuring guide on
the package, only mix up the amount of cement you will need for
your project. This kind of cement mixes easily with water and
you can add more water or mix as needed for the desired consistency.
You want a thick base but not one that is to dry.
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You have several options of
material to use for your mold. Disposable aluminum pie tins are
available in a deep dish size that works well but avoid the kind
of pie tin that has slanted sides. The cement will be to thin
on the edges and could break off over time.
Another inexpensive mold option
is to purchase the plastic circles that garden centers sell to
put under potted plants for drainage. They come in several different
sizes. Both of these products make wonderful round stepping stones
and can be thrown away after use. |
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When you cement mix is ready,
carefully scoop the mix into the mold. Using a cement hand trowel,
tap the cement mixture to break up any air pockets and insure
a solid base. Next, use the trowel to smooth the surface. Any
excess liquid will automatically come to the surface of the mold
during this process.
Handprint Stepping Stones
Cover the children's hands in petroleum jelly to protect them
from the harmful lye's that can irritate their skin. Roll up
their sleeves and carefully press their hands into the cement.
Hand Imprints are a fun way to measure your child's growth and
will be a sentimental garden favorite.
Kids could also make a picture
on the stone using food coloring to stain the cement. It will
also stain your hands so wearing plastic gloves and an apron
is a good idea. Don't forget to sign and date it!
Time Capsule Stones
Gather a collection of memorabilia
that reminds you of the important events of the past year. Look
for miniature toys or decorative key chains that symbolize larger
events you are trying to portray. Examples you could use: A baby
rattle to stand for the new baby you had that year or a fishing
fly or lure (hook side down!) to remember the summer fishing
trip - get the idea? Using a stick or plastic knife, carve the
year in the middle of the stone. Arrange your objects around
the date and leave the mold to set up.
Time Dial
The basic stepping stone can
also make a fun time-dial. Purchase Roman numeral clock numbers
at a craft and hobby store. The dial need to be rather long and
weather proof. I suggest using a brass plant hanging arm or metal
shelf bracket for best results. Check out a book from your local
library to learn how to tell time with your new dial. |
