How to Make Your Own Cement Stepping Stones

Make homemade stepping stones.

Cement stepping stones make a pretty and practical addition to nearly any landscape. They can outline small garden plots and offer a mud-free way to leave and enter your home after a rainstorm. You can also place them wherever you like, creating winding garden paths to small fountains, peaceful garden swings and fragrant herb plots.

Though cement stepping stones are available commercially in many shapes, sizes, finishes and designs, they may overreach your budget once you have all the pieces you need. Instead, make concrete stepping stones yourself, at home. There are many variations and shapes you can use. Plus, the cost of a few mosaic pottery pieces and other supplies is much less than purchasing ready-made products.

Things You'll Need

• Cement
• Mixing tray
• Hoe
• Gloves
• Water
• Molds
• Plastic wrap
• Decorations: leaves, flowers, pottery pieces, glass stones, paint
• Cement sealer

Instructions

1. Fill your mixing tray about 1/4 of the way with dry cement. Add a little water at a time, mixing it with a hoe each time using long, smooth strokes. Continue until you reach the consistency of very thick mud or oatmeal.

2. Pour your cement into molds. You can purchase molds at hardware or craft stores in many shapes and sizes. You can also uses cardboard boxes, metal tins or plastic containers as molds. Choose large sizes and line them with plastic wrap for easy removal.

3. Wait about 15 minutes for the cement to begin to set; this is the perfect time to add your decorations. Put on rubber gloves and push mosaic pottery and glass stones into the cement. Press hands, feet, leaves and flowers into the cement as well to make imprints. You can also use a stick to draw swirls and write words.

4. Wait 60 minutes for the cement to set before painting it. Use latex paint for easy cleanup and good coverage. Paint over all of your stepping stones with cement sealer to prevent weathering.

References

• Kidz World: Garden Stepping Stones
• Home Decor Resource: Make Stepping Stones
• Concrete Garden Leaves: Stepping Stones