Sometimes a personal gift can mean so much more than a store bought product. The time and effort put into a personal gift is a great way to express love and friendship and appreciation.
Hand Painted Stones
This is not as difficult as it may seem. Stone and rock painting is a great hobby. First, choose the stone. This can be flint or slate or just a stone that may be picked up whilst walking in a forest or on the beach.
Clean the stone well and let it dry out completely by leaving it in a warm place for at least two days. Choose desired paint such as acrylic or poster or ceramic paints. For painting on stones, acrylic works very well.
Firstly, decide whether to paint a single picture, such as a flower, or a scene. Paint the background first. If painting a single subject such as a flower, a background of green works very well. Poppies, for example, are quite easy to paint and show up well against a green background. If painting a scene, paint the sky first and then a general colour for the earth. Use relatively thick paint so that it does not run. Allow to dry.
Go Ahead and Start Painting.
Then paint the picture as if painting on paper. A fine brush will be needed for smaller objects such as buildings, and try to keep the picture as simple as possible. Use lots of different colours and feel free to experiment. With a stone, it is easy to clean off the paint and start again. Once the picture is finished, allow to dry for several days, and then varnish with an acrylic clear varnish, available from most art and craft stores. The varnish will harden the paint and prevent it from chipping.
There are so many shapes and sizes of stones that the choice is endless. Flat surfaces are much better for detailed work.
Once confident with working on stone, try painting on a variety of other objects. White tiles are ideal for flowers. Browse through second hand shops and find white dishes and vases and paint those, too. The finished articles can be personalised for that extra special gift.
Stone painting provides hours of fun and enjoyment. Once confident, why not progress on to what is often called Barge Art. Take a metal bucket or watering can, paint green, and then paint with colourful subjects such as flowers and insects. These, too, make excellent gifts.
The list is endless and the possibilities limitless. Just enjoy the experience and maybe make someone very happy with a personal gift that has been created with love.
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