How to Make Miniature Fake Rocks

Fake rocks can easily be mistaken for real rocks.

Fake rocks, or faux rocks, are used in landscaping, theater and motion picture productions, and aquariums and terrariums. The uses of fake rocks are not limited to grand endeavors, however; miniature fake rocks can add detail and atmosphere to dioramas, model railroad layouts and dollhouse landscaping. Making miniature fake rocks is very similar to making life-sized fake rocks, and although the process is somewhat simplified, the results can be just as dramatic.

Things You'll Need

• Block of floral foam
• Craft knife
• Acrylic primer
• Acrylic paint
• Clear spray-on finish
• Aluminum foil
• Paper towels
• Salt
• Flour

Instructions

Foam Rocks

1. Use a craft knife to cut a small piece of foam from the block of foam in the general shape you'd like your rock to be. Floral foam works well for this as you can mold it to some extend with your fingertips after cutting it.

2. Paint the piece of foam with a white acrylic primer. Allow the primer to dry.

3. Paint the piece of foam with acrylic paint in the color of your choice. Most craft stores also carry spray-on paint with granite or marble colors and textures.

4. Seal your rock with a clear spray-on finish. Use a glossy finish for smooth rocks and a non-glossy finish for rough rocks.

Paper Mache Rocks

1. Roll a small piece of aluminum into a ball. Use your fingers to shape the ball into the general shape you'd like your rock to be.

2. Mix 1 part flour with 2 parts water in a bowl. Mix until there are no clumps left.

3. Cut or tear a white paper towel into small pieces.

4. Dip the paper towel pieces into the flour and water mixture, then mold them to your aluminum ball. Use at least two layers of paper towel pieces for best results. Allow the paper towel pieces to dry.

5. Paint the paper mache with a white acrylic primer and allow the primer to dry.

6. Paint the paper mache with acrylic paint in the color of your choice and allow the paint to dry.

7. Seal your rock with a clear spray-on finish and allow it to dry.

Tips & Warnings

• For a lighter shade of rock, use paint washes instead of acrylic paint. Dip your rock in the wash, allow it to dry and repeat the process until you achieve the color you desire.

• Dry-brush your finished rock with a green or brown dry paint to achieve a mossy or dusty finish. Dry paints can be purchased at most well-stocked craft stores.

• Use primer, paint and finish in a well-ventilated area.

References

• Fake Rock University: How To Make Rocks - Some Techniques Used To Make Fake Rocks
• NTM: Making Fake Rocks... By The Way, They're a Little Messy!
• best-preschool-games.com: Paper Mache Recipe