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The Art of Stone Painting: Book Review

The Art of Stone Painting: Book Review

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my full disclosure policy for details.

Updated on Nov 1, 2020 by Kelly 40 Comments

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The Art of Stone Painting: 30 Designs to Spark Your Creativity by artist F. Sehnaz Bac is a book you want to know about.  If you read my prior post on rock painting, you come to find out this is a little bit of an obsession of mine.

“Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up.” – Pablo Picasso

The passion isn’t just about painting rocks, it’s about stumbling on to a movement of spreading kindness. This campaign is literally transforming lives.  If you would like to read more about spreading kindness, read my other blog post on rock painting that I have listed below.  When a book comes out with easy instructions of how to create and paint gorgeous rocks, I just couldn’t pass up the opportunity to let you all know about it.

F. Sehnaz Bac is an artist living on a coast in Italy. Her love of painting with vibrant colors and creating detailed works of art shine through on every page.  I can’t even decide what part of the book I like the best.

I think because of the step-by-step instructions, anyone can feel like they can paint works of art just like her.  There’s something for everyone.  Elegant birds, Cheerful Hearts, Sea Themes, Friendly Fish and Flourishing Trees are just some of the rocks you will learn how to paint.  You just don’t get 30 design ideas, you get 30 theme ideas.  Each theme has 1 to 17 different designs.

Related Posts:

Rock Painting Ideas – How to Get Started

Stone Painting for Kids: Designs to Spark Your Creativity

The kindness movement was started somewhere in the Pacific Northwest.  Someone started painting rocks, sealed them and then left them outdoors for others to find.  When you found the rock, you were instructed to go to a Facebook page and take a picture of the rock to let the club know that you found one.  Once you find one of these special rocks, you can’t help but want to join in all the fun.

I started a new group on Facebook called Rock Painting Ideas and Resources.  We have over 20,000 happy members.   I would love to have you join and share your works of art.  You can join the group here. 

What’s so special about these groups, is that they go out of their way to spread joy in others lives.  When they find out that kids with special needs are going to be playing in a certain area, the rock angels “hide” plenty of rocks for the kids to find.  A children’s hospital in Seattle lets everyone “hide” rocks in the hospital for the patients.  Seniors who felt like they were no longer needed are hard at work painting rocks to spread the mission even farther.

Getting started on creating your own rock artwork is easy. You don’t have to be overly talented or an artist to get started. You just need the basic supplies and pretty soon you will be making your own works of art.  The Art of Stone Painting just made the process so much easier.

Here’s step-by-step instructions on how to get started stone painting:

1) Stones.

You want smooth flat rocks to create your masterpiece unless an unusual rock acts as the body of your art piece. Keep your artwork ideas in mind when selecting the perfect stones.

Make sure you’re able to remove stones from where you find them. Removing stones from National and state parks isn’t okay. Removing rocks from waterways can also be against the rules. It is illegal to take rocks from railroad tracks.

If you live in an area that it’s hard to find rocks, head over to your nearest home improvement center, landscape supply store and garden centers to purchase some. Amazon has a 30 pound bag of 3-5″ rocks.  You can find them here.

2) Wash.

Paint won’t stick to dirty rocks. A smooth surface is what we’re aiming for, so washing your rocks in warm water and soap will ensure that. You might want scrub it with an old toothbrush to make sure all debris is removed. Allow rocks to dry before painting.

3) Sand. If there is any light bumps or grit on your rock, you can sand using 150 grit sandpaper. You can find it here. 

4) Paint.

Use acrylic patio paint for best results if you will be hiding your rocks outside. Adding a white layer before painting the color you want makes it pop. Let each layer of paint dry before applying the next layer. You can find acrylic patio paints prices by clicking here to Amazon.

5) Paint brushes.

A selection of various sized paint brushes will help you create the perfect look you are going for. Here’s a brush pack with a variety of sizes and at a great price:

6) Markers.

Adding text with markers is easier than painting words. Through trial and error, I have found that Posca Markers work best for rock painting. These markers are your secret weapon to creating beautiful designs easily.   You can find them here. Make sure you look at the tip size before purchasing to make sure you have the right size.

7) Fineline Applicator.

This Fineline Applicator lets you control your artwork. You can find them here.

Here’s just the top to add to paint bottles.   You can find it here.  

8) Dots.

Dotting tools make perfectly round dots. I love using these and they are really inexpensive you can find them here.

9) Seal.

This is one of the most important steps to rock painting. All that hard work that you put into your stone would be wasted with any type of moisture. You want a seal that won’t curdle if the stones are subject to the outdoor weather. Here’s the sealant that I recommend. Two thin coats works best.

10) Brush Cleaner.

How many have us have been guilty of not cleaning our brushes right away and throwing out a rarely used brush because of it? Soak your paintbrushes in this, and you’ll never have to do that again.  Find it here.  

 

Now I know you’ve been dying to get a little peek into this beautiful book.  It’s a good thing Amazon lets you do just that. Just click on the picture and when you see the book on Amazon go to the top right corner and it will let you look inside.

The Art of Stone Painting was just published in January 2017, so it’s just hot off the press!  I have nothing but praise for this gorgeous book.  The pictures are spectacular, instructions are easy, and the variety of items to paint is well worth the money spent.  This is a five-star book for sure and reviewers on Amazon agree.  You can find the book here.  

Amazing…right? If you want to read more about the kindness movement, please check out my blog post below. If you want to see if you have a Facebook rock painting organization in your area just put in the Facebook search box your city or county and the word “rocks.”  It’s fun to see what your local group has been up to and you’ll be amazed at the talent you will find in your own area.

Make sure you sign up so you get every post delivered to your in-box.  You wouldn’t want to miss blog posts like Most Popular Rock Painting Words and Sayings.  

If you enjoyed this post, please share it on social media.  Thanks for stopping by!

 

The Art of Stone Painting: Book Review

 

 

 

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. AvatarMary ann walker says

    January 28, 2017 at 1:55 pm

    I just love the idea both for me and my beautiful grandaughter. Being artistic with nature. Nothing better than that!

    Reply
    • KellyKelly says

      January 28, 2017 at 2:02 pm

      Thank you so much Mary Ann for writing. Once you get started on this project…you will become obsessed too! 🙂

      Reply
  2. AvatarErin says

    January 29, 2017 at 8:40 am

    I live on Camano Island in Washington. I belong to too many rock groups to list here. I am a rockaholic! I paint everyday and hide at least once a week. I have MS and am on disability. I was diagnosed in 1989 and it has slowly progressed. I’m lucky and have what I call “the good kind of MS”. I wouldn’t be the person I am if I didn’t have it. It’s part o of me. Doing rock painting and hiding for people to find has been the best therapy I have found. It helps me manage my pain better and lowers my stress level immensely. It has also given me back the belief that there are still wonderful people in this world. Yes it is an addiction, but what a wonderful one to have! Have a wonderful day and happy painting, hiding and finding! Erin ?

    Reply
    • KellyKelly says

      January 30, 2017 at 8:35 pm

      Hi Erin! Thanks for commenting. I’m so glad you found happiness in this wonderful tradition. It says a lot about a person that wants to give back to others. I’m so happy for you. Kelly

      Reply
    • AvatarDebbie Wilson says

      June 23, 2017 at 1:43 am

      Hi Erin – it is so weird when I read your comments. I was looking at the rock painting stuff. I too have MS and it sounds similar to you. I am an American but live in New Zealand. My husband is a Kiwi and we have 2 girls and 5 grandies! Keep in touch – we can be pen Friends! Rock painting is very cool. Take care – Debbie

      Reply
    • Avatarkaye foster says

      July 31, 2017 at 6:10 pm

      OH! SO GLAD I FOUND THIS WITH ALL OF YOUR COMMENTS…..I THOUGHT, FOR AWHILE, I WAS THE ONE AND ONLY ROCK~DOODLER JUNKIE!!!!! NOPE!!! IT TOTALLY TAKES AWAY MY TENSION AND/OR ANXIETY…..I HATE TO ADMIT IT ~ BUT I CAN DOODLE FOR HOURS AND HOURS! ONE OF THE BEST THINGS I READ WAS WHAT A GIRL WROTE REGARDING ROCK ART ~ “I SHALL NEVER LOOK AT A ROCK IN THE SAME WAY.” ME TOO!!!!!!! I PREFER WRITING AND DRAWING WITH PERMANENT MARKERS TO GET THE ‘FINER’ LOOK ~ BUT THE ‘DURA CLEAR’ VARNISH ‘STUFF’ I USE WILL , MOST OF THE TIME, BREAK DOWN THE ‘INK’ AND SMEAR MY ‘DOODLES!’ ALSO, I TRY PAINT PEN, BUT THEY SEEM TO FINALLY QUIT FLOWING AFTER A SHORT TIME……SO, THERE, I SURE DROPPED A LONG COMMENT…BUT I’VE BEEN DESPERATE FOR AN ANSWER…THANKS! kaye j

      Reply
      • KellyKelly says

        July 31, 2017 at 7:37 pm

        Hi Kaye! I’m glad you found this post. Make sure you join my Facebook group “Rock Painting Ideas and Resources” and look at my other blog post Rock Painting Ideas. Welcome to the obsession! Kelly

        Reply
        • Avatarkaye foster says

          August 5, 2017 at 3:58 pm

          THANKS FOR THE NOTE, KELLY!

          Reply
    • AvatarMelissa Kennedy says

      August 4, 2017 at 4:43 pm

      My son was diagnosed last year with MS. Yes, he has the “good kind” also. He paints models and garners much joy from this. I will suggest rock painting. My town, Pell City, Alabama, has started the paint and place rock thingy. I have the things to start rock painting. .. can’t wait!

      Reply
      • KellyKelly says

        August 4, 2017 at 4:56 pm

        Hi Melissa! I’m so glad you can do something fun with your son. Make sure you join my Facebook Group – Rock Painting Ideas & Resources for some daily ideas! Kelly

        Reply
      • AvatarMichelle Harder says

        October 1, 2017 at 9:22 pm

        I to was diagnosed with MS in 1989 and if it wasn’t for the art of rock painting and general crafting I am sure I would of lost my fine motor skills

        Reply
        • KellyKelly says

          October 1, 2017 at 11:20 pm

          Hello Michelle! I’m so sorry to hear about your MS. I’m glad you found an activity that gives you joy. Kelly

          Reply
  3. AvatarJean says

    January 30, 2017 at 6:31 pm

    My husband paints rocks and gives them to patients and nurses at the hospital. He loves his lady bugs.

    Reply
    • KellyKelly says

      January 30, 2017 at 8:34 pm

      Hi Jean! I love the lady bug rocks. That is so sweet of your husband. He sounds like a keeper! 🙂 Kelly

      Reply
  4. AvatarElizabeth says

    February 10, 2017 at 7:04 pm

    A FYI for all painters: DecoArt makes fine line tops that just screw onto the paint bottles. They come with a cleaning pick to make it easy. So much easier that cleaning out bottles!
    http://www.hobbylobby.com/Crafts-Hobbies/Stencils-Craft-Paints/Paint-Containers/Ultra-Fine-Writer-Tip/p/80772552 It is available from many sources.

    Reply
    • KellyKelly says

      February 10, 2017 at 8:56 pm

      Thank you Elizabeth for the idea. That will make things much easier! I added the link to the page. Kelly

      Reply
  5. AvatarAran says

    June 18, 2017 at 9:54 am

    Thank you, I love creating rocks at our art camp!

    Reply
    • KellyKelly says

      June 18, 2017 at 10:01 am

      You’re welcome. I love this whole movement! I’m so happy you’re involved. Kelly

      Reply
  6. AvatarTerri says

    June 26, 2017 at 3:42 pm

    Can tempra paints be used sucessfully?

    Reply
    • KellyKelly says

      June 26, 2017 at 9:22 pm

      You can use tempera paints as long as you put a coating on the top. The colors won’t be as vibrant. Kelly

      Reply
  7. AvatarAlicia Forte says

    July 2, 2017 at 9:09 am

    I just love it!!!

    Reply
    • KellyKelly says

      July 2, 2017 at 9:36 am

      Hi Alicia! I hope you got the book. It’s such an amazing way to learn. Thanks for commenting!

      Reply
      • AvatarDebi Boyd says

        July 7, 2017 at 9:29 pm

        Hello Kelly,
        I love all your tips! Thank you so much for sharing this information and your experiences! I have a question. Can I purchase this book? If so, where can I order it? Thank you so much! I am totally hooked on rock painting! Love doing the art and the whole purpose of the movement! Making children and adults and all in between happy….1 rock at a time! Keep on rockin!! ?❤?

        Reply
        • KellyKelly says

          July 7, 2017 at 10:07 pm

          Hi Debi! You can get it on Amazon. Just click the picture of the book and it will take you to the site. I’m glad you love painting rocks. It’s so much fun! Kelly

          Reply
          • AvatarRobin says

            September 13, 2017 at 4:47 pm

            Kelly I just started painting Rock’s about about 2months ago.I just love it.It is very calming.

  8. AvatarShirley Goins says

    July 4, 2017 at 6:22 pm

    I love rock painting

    Reply
    • KellyKelly says

      July 4, 2017 at 6:32 pm

      Hi Shirley! I’m glad you love it. Thanks for doing it – you’re making the world a better place. Kelly

      Reply
  9. AvatarJudy says

    August 17, 2017 at 4:33 pm

    Painting rocks in Mississippi.

    Reply
    • KellyKelly says

      August 17, 2017 at 4:48 pm

      Great! Have fun Judy! For inspiration, check out my Rock Painting Ideas and Resources group on Facebook. Kelly

      Reply
  10. AvatarSteven Reeves says

    September 1, 2017 at 5:13 pm

    Thank you so much. I have been a rock hound for years. I just got interested in rock painting & your info is the best I have found so far. Thanks for all the great links. Peace & God Bless.

    Reply
    • KellyKelly says

      September 1, 2017 at 5:16 pm

      Thank you Steven for your comment. You made my night! I’m glad you enjoyed it! Kelly

      Reply
  11. AvatarMaureen Curtiss says

    September 18, 2017 at 3:16 pm

    I’ve been painting on rocks since 1975, it is a wonderful thing to do!!!

    Reply
    • KellyKelly says

      September 18, 2017 at 10:19 pm

      Wow Maureen! That’s amazing. Well you are certainly a trendsetter! Kelly

      Reply
  12. AvatarGalia says

    March 18, 2018 at 2:59 pm

    Hi everyone. Thenk’s Kelly for your good heart, your sharing, your ideas. God bless you!

    Reply
    • KellyKelly says

      March 18, 2018 at 3:26 pm

      Hello Galia! You totally made my day! Thank you so much for writing in. Kelly

      Reply
  13. AvatarDorothy Sommer says

    May 12, 2018 at 4:55 pm

    I would like to order now -go to shopping cart

    Reply
    • KellyKelly says

      May 12, 2018 at 8:55 pm

      Hello Dorothy! You’ll love it! Thanks for using my link. Kelly

      Reply
    • AvatarAngel Stewart says

      July 29, 2019 at 4:03 am

      Trucker wife finding rocks.. I want to join in on the fun!

      Reply
      • KellyKelly says

        August 2, 2019 at 1:17 pm

        Yes, Angel, join in on the fun! Kelly

        Reply
  14. AvatarSandra Tyler says

    October 13, 2020 at 5:24 pm

    I see everything except how to remove paint from santorinis so they can be repainted !

    Reply

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