Pinterest project: painted river stones.

There's something so comforting about holding a smooth river stone in the palm of your hand, isn't there?  After gathering several river stones that were scattered on a sidewalk in my neighborhood, I was inspired by this idea on Pinterest and decided to make my own.  I thought they'd be the perfect natural materials for my daughter to play with and learn from.  And a fun project for mama, of course!

I didn't spend a cent on these and used materials I already had at home.  Even if you don't have the materials, the cost is very minimal!

Materials needed:

• Smooth river stones in various shapes and sizes
• Non-toxic craft paint in various colors - comes in small bottles at Michaels, Hobby Lobby, or JoAnn
• Small paint brush
• Black Sharpie
• Small container of Glossy Mod Podge - get it in the glue aisle at Michaels, Hobby Lobby, or JoAnn
• Foam sponge brush or bigger paint brush to apply the Mod Podge

Now, start painting!

For the background designs and words, you can follow the ideas on the orginal artist's blog, or make your own!  I did a combination of the two. Once the paint was dry, I simply used a black Sharpie to write the words, which made it a ton easier than trying to use a paintbrush.  The Sharpie ink dries quickly, and then you just put a coat of glossy Mod Podge on top and let it dry.  They end up very durable and scratch-proof.  Love 'em!

We keep them in a little wooden bowl on the coffee table, and Luci Belle plays with them several times a day.  I want to make another entire set of the entire alphabet - with one letter on each stone, to help her eventually learn to spell.  How cute would it be to make a set of these as a gift for a little girl's birthday?  Also love this idea of putting them in a bowl by the front door and letting guests take whichever one inspires them.  Perfect.