Transform Your Garden with This Stunning Waterproof Decoupaged Rock!

Hello, fabulous crafters! Today, we’re thrilled to share a special tutorial by our wonderful affiliate, Donna from Mason Creations Etc. Donna will guide you through creating a beautiful decoupaged rock, perfect for adding a touch of art to your garden. This rock will be waterproof and durable, able to withstand the elements. Watch the video below to get started!

As the weather warms, people love to spend time in the garden. This rock project is perfect for beautifying your garden. Here’s how you do it.

Step-by-Step Guide to Decoupage a Garden Rock

Step 1: Prepare Your Rock

Start by cleaning and thoroughly drying your rock. This ensures a smooth surface for painting and decoupage. Donna uses Dixie Belle Chalk Paint in Cotton for this project. She applies two coats, allowing each coat to dry for 30 minutes. This provides a clean, bright base for the decoupage napkin.

Step 2: Prepare the Napkin

Separate the layers of your napkin, keeping only the top printed layer. To fit the napkin to the shape of your rock, use a water brush. This tool allows for easy tearing and creates a softer edge that blends seamlessly into the rock’s surface. Donna trims the napkin to match the rock’s shape, removing any excess white background for a better fit.

Step 3: The Dry Method of Decoupage

Donna uses the dry method of decoupage for this project. This involves placing the napkin directly onto the rock’s surface without any decoupage medium. Instead, she applies Polyvine Heavy Duty Extreme Varnish on top of the napkin. Starting from the center and brushing outward, this technique helps control bubbles and wrinkles, resulting in a smooth finish. Carefully wrap the edges of the napkin around the rock, ensuring all areas are covered.

Step 4: Apply a Second Layer of Varnish

Once the napkin is securely in place and the first layer of varnish is dry (about an hour), Donna applies a second coat of Polyvine Heavy Duty Extreme Varnish. This ensures the napkin is well adhered and adds an extra layer of protection.

Step 5: Add Paint Details

Once the second layer of varnish is dry, it’s time to add some paint details. Donna uses Pentart paints to match the design on the napkin. She mixes colors to get the perfect match and dabs white paint to mimic the napkin’s background where necessary. This step adds depth and continuity to the design.

Step 6: Add Foil for Shimmer

For an extra touch of elegance, Donna adds foil to the butterfly’s wings. She applies Polyvine Metal Leaf Size to the desired areas and allows it to dry until sticky. Once ready, she lays the foil over the adhesive, adding a beautiful shimmer to the design.

Step 7: Apply a Third Layer of Varnish

After adding the foil, Donna applies another layer of Polyvine Heavy Duty Extreme Varnish. She lets it dry for an hour. This additional layer helps to seal in the foil and adds further protection to the design.

Step 8: Create 3D Embellishments

To enhance the rock’s appearance, Donna uses Amazing Casting Resin to create small embellishments like ladybugs and butterflies. After mixing the resin, she pours it into molds and lets it set. Once hardened, these pieces are painted and detailed, ready to be added to the rock.

Step 9: Add 3D Effects

Donna uses glass bead gel to add texture to the flower centers, applying it with a palette knife. Once dry, she enhances the beads with a touch of metallic rub, adding shimmer and interest to the project.

Step 10: Final Assembly and Sealing

The final step is to assemble and seal your project. Donna attaches the resin embellishments using E6000 glue, ensuring they stay firmly in place. She then applies two more coats of Polyvine Heavy Duty Extreme Varnish to the entire rock, including the embellishments. She allows an hour of drying time between each coat. This not only seals the project but also makes it waterproof and durable, capable of withstanding outdoor elements.

A huge thank you to Donna at Mason Creations Etc. for her expertise and this fantastic tutorial. Remember to subscribe to our newsletter for 10% off your next order from DecoupageNapkins.com! Happy crafting!