How to Finish Faux Rock

A good finish makes faux rocks look realistic

Faux rocks are useful for filling out landscaping or using inside of the home. Faux rocks are often made from chicken wire, Styrofoam and concrete. Artificial rocks may be custom made in specific colors to match a certain decorating style. Finishing a faux rock by painting and sealing it adds to the realism and beauty of the finished product. Supplies to paint and finish artificial rocks can be purchased from craft stores or home improvement stores. (reference 1,2)

Things You'll Need

• Faux rock
• Paint
• Spray bottles
• Water
• Sealer

Instructions

1. Ensure that the faux rock you are working with is dry and clean. Work in a warm, dry and well-ventilated area.

2. Purchase several water-based paints to use. Select a base color, such as red, brown or gray. Pick a few light and darker tones in the same color family as the base color to use as accents. Small amounts of white and black paint are useful for highlighting areas.

3. Mix each color of paint in the spray bottles by adding one part paint to three parts water. Watered down paint is easily layered to create a natural and realistic finish on the artificial rock.

4. Spray a layer of the base coat onto the rock and allow it to dry.

5. Add additional layers of paint using the highlighting colors. Lightly spray the highlighting color onto the surface in areas where there are indentations or protrusions. Allow each coat to fully dry before applying another layer.

6. Continue layering the base and highlighting paint colors until you are satisfied with the color. Allow the rock to dry completely.

7. Apply the sealer by spraying it onto the surface using a spray bottle. Allow the sealer to cure before using your artificial rock.

Tips & Warnings

• If your faux rock will be used outdoors, select a sealer that is specifically made for outdoor use.

References

• Make Fake Rocks: Make Fake Rocks Using Cement
• Artificial Rocks: Artificial Rock Painting Technique