How to Make Rocks Out of Concrete

- Quikrete concrete mix

- Water

- Formwork (such as cardboard boxes, plastic containers, or even old clothes)

- Wire mesh or chicken wire (optional)

- Pigments (optional)

- Paint (optional)

- Gloves

- Safety glasses

- Mixing bowl

- Shovel or hoe

Step 2: Prepare the Formwork

Before mixing the concrete, prepare your formwork. This can be done by cutting and arranging old cardboard boxes, plastic containers, or even old clothes to create molds of different shapes and sizes. These molds will hold the wet concrete in place as it hardens and forms your rocks.

If you are worried about the durability of the formwork, you can reinforce it with wire mesh or chicken wire. This will help prevent it from collapsing under the weight of the wet concrete.

Step 3: Mix the Concrete

Follow the instructions on the Quikrete concrete mix bag to mix the concrete. Typically, this involves adding water to the concrete mix in a mixing bowl and using a shovel or hoe to stir until the mixture is well-blended and has the consistency of thick oatmeal.

Step 4: Add Pigments (optional)

If you want to add color to your rocks, you can add concrete pigment to the concrete mixture at this stage. Concrete pigments are available in a variety of colors and can be added in small amounts to create different shades. Be sure to mix the pigments thoroughly until the color is evenly distributed throughout the concrete.

Step 5: Pour the Concrete into the Formwork

After the concrete is mixed, pour it into the prepared formwork. Be sure to fill the molds completely and work the mixture around to eliminate any air pockets. If the mixture is too thick, you can add a small amount of water and mix again until it reaches the desired consistency.

Step 6: Allow the Concrete to Harden

Let the concrete harden completely before removing the formwork. This may take several days or even up to a week, depending on the size of your rocks and the temperature and humidity in your area.

Step 7: Remove the Formwork

Once the concrete has hardened completely, you can gently remove the formwork to reveal your rocks. You may need to use a hammer or pry bar to help loosen the edges of the formwork.

Step 8: Finish the Rocks (optional)

Once your rocks are removed from the formwork, you can finish them in any way you like. You can sand them down to create a smooth surface or you can paint them to add color and design.

Enjoy your rocks!

Your concrete rocks are now ready to be used in your garden, yard or landscape design.