It's easy to make -- and to personalize -- steppingstones for your garden. And it's a great project to share with children. Crafting expert Kathi Cardinalli explains how. You'll need a form for the stones, and a cardboard box or plastic plant saucer works well. To personalize your steppingstones, add found objects such as shiny stones, broken pottery, costume jewelry, marbles or ceramic pieces. Make sure that the objects you use will withstand weather. You'll make the stones from quick-setting concrete, available in hardware stores. Always wear gloves and a mask when working with concrete. - Mix the concrete with water in an old bucket or a wheelbarrow until it is the consistency of cake frosting. If you like, add a concrete color.
- Pour the wet concrete into the form, then push in found objects so that they're even with the surface: you don't want anybody to stumble on your steppingstones. Clean the surface of the stone with a damp sponge to remove any excess concrete.
- Allow the steppingstone to set for two hours, then tip it out of the form.
- Let the stone dry overnight, then place it in your garden and enjoy.
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