How to Make Stepping Stones

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Creating a stepping stone pathway in your yard or garden can be a necessary part of landscaping as well as a form of self-expression. Although there are many ways to create yard and garden pathways, making your own stepping stones is a fun project that can be enjoyed by the entire family. Making stepping stones is a wonderful way to bring both personality and useful protection to an often-traveled path.

Method 1
Method 1 of 3:

Making a Mosaic Stepping Stone

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  1. Cake pans and pie pans work the best, but you can also use plastic tubs or cardboard boxes. [1] You can also find special molds for making stepping stones in an arts and crafts store.
    • The mold needs to be at least 2 inches (5.1 cm) thick.
    • If the edges of your mold are not rigid, then you will need to use something to reinforce them until the concrete hardens. This usually takes about 24 hours.
  2. This will make it easier to remove the stepping stone from the mold. [2] If you are using a cardboard mold, cover the inside of the mold with a plastic sheet (ie: plastic wrap or a plastic bag) first. It would be a good idea to grease the plastic sheet afterwards as well. Keep in mind that if the plastic has any wrinkles or seams in it, then these will likely show on the concrete as well. [3]
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  3. This is very important. Concrete is dusty and can irritate sensitive skin. It's not something you want getting into your lungs either. Put on a pair of safety goggles, a dust mask, and work gloves. [4]
    • Make sure to keep your workspace, tools, and mixing equipment tidy and avoid getting concrete on yourself as well.
    • Wash your hands with mild vinegar followed by hand soap and water to reduce irritation to your skin if you get concrete on it.
    • Avoid getting dry or wet concrete in your eyes. If you do get concrete in your eyes, flush them out with generous amounts of cool water immediately. If needed, go to urgent care, an emergency room, or to see an optometrist.
  4. Each brand will be a little different, so follow the instructions on your container closely. If the concrete is very wet, add some more dry concrete powder to it. The concrete should feel like wet sand. You want it to clump together when you squeeze it. [5]
    • If you plan to mix a few separate batches of concrete, then use measuring cups for the concrete and water to keep the mixtures consistent.
  5. Use a trowel to spread it around so that it covers the bottom layer of the mold. If you are using a square mold, make sure that it reaches and fills the corners. You want it to be about 1 inch (2.5 cm) thick. [6]
    • You can also tap on the edges of the mold to make sure that the concrete spreads out and fills in any air pockets.
  6. Cut a scrap of chicken wire until it is 1 inch (2.5 cm) smaller than your mold. Set it into your mold and gently press it into the wet concrete. This step is not absolutely necessary, but it will help prevent the stepping stone from cracking later on. [7]
    • If you can't find chicken wire, you can use sturdy, wire mesh instead. This will actually be more durable than wide spaced chicken wire.
  7. Use a trowel to spread the concrete around and make it smooth. You want this layer to be about 1 inch (2.5 cm) thick as well. [8]
    • Tap on the edges of the mold again to make sure that the concrete spreads out and fills in any air pockets.
  8. Mosaic tiles are a popular choice, but you can use other items as well, such as broken pottery, glass gems, sea glass, seashells, and pretty stones. [9] If you are using glass gems or sea glass, paint the back of each piece with white spray paint. This will help keep them looking bright and prevent the concrete from dulling them down. [10] Let the paint dry before putting them into a mold.
    • Make sure that there are no sharp or jagged edges sticking out of the concrete, especially if people will walk on the mosaics. This may lead to injuries.
  9. You can use a random pattern, or arrange the decorations to make words or images such as a name or the moon and stars. If your decorations are sinking into the concrete, wait about 30 minutes before trying again. This will give the concrete time to set up again.
    • Press the mosaics far enough into the concrete so that they don't stick out. This way, you'll be less likely to tip over them.
    • You can also use a stamp to press mosaics into concrete.
  10. After two days, flip the mold over onto a soft surface, such as a patch of grass, a towel, or a blanket. Gently tap the bottom, then lift the mold away. [11]
  11. Sand away any rough areas with sandpaper, and fill in any holes with aggregate free cement. Wipe the top of the stepping stone clean with a wet sponge or an old toothbrush. This will remove any cement that got stuck to glass or porcelain tiles or gems. [12] Let the stepping stone dry before moving on.
  12. You can leave your stepping stone as is, or you can varnish the top, decorated part to give it that wet look. Sealing the stones will also help them to last longer. A high-quality marine varnish will work especially well here. [13] You can also use a clear, outdoor-quality varnish instead. [14] Let the varnish cure completely before using the stone.
    • Curing times are different from drying times. Read the label on your varnish carefully.
    • You only need to varnish the top, decorated part.
    • Pay attention to the finish. A matte finish is not recommended for glass gems or tiles because it will dull them down.
  13. Choose a spot in your garden for the stepping stone. Use a shovel or trowel to dig a shallow, 2 inches (5.1 cm) deep hole in the soil. Set the stone into it, design side up, then gently pat the soil around it to blend it in with the surrounding area. [15]
    • You can also prop up stepping stones to display them. They do not all have to be flat.
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Method 2
Method 2 of 3:

Making a Decorative Leaf-Shaped Stone

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  1. The leaf needs to be at least 10 inches (25 cm) to 12 inches (30 cm) across, otherwise it will be too small to use as a stepping stone. Great leaves include gunnera, hosta, and rhubarb. Make sure that the leaf does not have any holes or tears. [16]
    • Some cucumber, squash, and pumpkin leaves may also be big enough. Some calla lily leaves may also be large enough.
    • Another option is to lay the leaf or leaves on tracing paper, place the paper on a sturdy base that you can cut to match the leaf shape, and then reinforce the sides with 2 inches (5.1 cm) to 3 inches (7.6 cm) of edging.
  2. You can also brush some cooking oil onto it. This will help keep the concrete from sticking and make it easier to remove. [17]
  3. This is important, as concrete dust can irritate your lungs, eyes, and skin. You will need safety goggles, rubber gloves, and a dust mask. At this point, it would also be a good idea to put on a set of old clothes and protect your work surface with a plastic sheet.
    • Keep your workspace, tools, and mixing equipment tidy.
    • If you get concrete on your skin, then wash your hands with mild vinegar followed by hand soap and water to reduce irritation to your skin.
    • If you get concrete in your eyes, then flush them out with generous amounts of cool water immediately. Go to urgent care, an emergency room, or to see an optometrist as soon as possible.
  4. Each brand will be a little different, so prepare the concrete according to the instructions on the bag. You want the concrete to be more dry and firm than wet and soupy. It should clump together like wet sand when you squeeze a handful of it.
    • Use a lightweight concrete with little gravel for a smoother, decorative stepping stone. [18]
    • Use a heavier concrete with more gravel for a strong, sturdy stepping stone that will get lots of foot traffic. [19]
  5. Place the leaf down onto a large, plastic sheet. Use a trowel to scoop the concrete onto the leaf. Make the layer about 2 inches (5.08 centimeters) thick. [20]
  6. While still wearing your gloves, gently pat the concrete down onto the leaf. If you need to, guide it towards the edge of the leaf, and wipe any excess concrete away. Do not to let the concrete slop over the edges of the leaf. [21]
  7. How long this takes depends on the type of concrete you are using. This will typically take about 2 to 3 days.
  8. Flip the stepping stone over, then peel the leaf away and discard it. If there are bits stuck to the concrete, you can scrape them away with water and an old toothbrush. You will be left with a leaf-shaped stepping stone. Depending on how lightweight the concrete was, you may also see the leaf's veins embedded into the concrete.
    • Use a hammer and chisel to chip away any flakes of overhanging concrete on the edges of the stepping stone. [22]
  9. You don't have to do this, but it will give your leaf stepping stone a nice, wet look. Use a high-quality outdoor or marine varnish to lightly coat the front of the stepping stone.
  10. Choose a spot for the stone, then dig a shallow how that is 2 inches (5.1 cm) deep. Set the stepping stone into the hole, then fill any gaps in with more soil.
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Method 3
Method 3 of 3:

Other Stepping Stone Options

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  1. These usually come in rectangular or square shapes. These smooth concrete pavers will make a yard look more contemporary. [23]
  2. Ones with more curve and linearity will flow naturally together with the landscape. [25]
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  • Question
    I am worried about my children using the stepping stones when I am not around and falling into the water. Any advice?
    wikiHow Staff Editor
    Staff Answer
    This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.
    wikiHow Staff Editor
    Staff Answer
    This is a very real concern and one that must be taken seriously. First up, consider the possibility of fencing off the stepping stone area if viable and affordable. This could have a gate that you can open only when a responsible person is about to supervise the children's play. Second, if this is not possible, delay adding the stepping stones until you can be sure your children are old enough to play around the stepping stones responsibly and safely on their own.
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  • Question
    How can I add stepping stones to deep water?
    wikiHow Staff Editor
    Staff Answer
    This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.
    wikiHow Staff Editor
    Staff Answer
    Consider the value of adding stepping stones to deep water; if it's so deep that people cannot stand safely in the water, then stepping stones are not an option and a bridge or water craft would be better options. However, if the water is up to knee height on an average adult in still water, then it's possible. Care must be taken to make the stepping stones absolutely flat and wide enough for two feet to stand on with ease. As such, pavers mounted on small brick/cement or similar plinths would be the best choice in this case. Be sure to get help building them as it's quite a task to build small pier plinths in water and follow clear instructions for build and suitable materials that can withstand being in water long term.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
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  • Question
    Do stepping stones need to be in a straight line?
    wikiHow Staff Editor
    Staff Answer
    This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.
    wikiHow Staff Editor
    Staff Answer
    Stepping stones do not need to be in a straight line; in fact, if they are formed this way, it can detract from attempts to make them look like a natural feature in the water. Also, for safety's sake, they are best placed where each foot would naturally fall rather than in a straight row.
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      Warnings

      • Immediately wash your skin with warm water if it comes into contact with cement.
        Thanks
        Helpful 8 Not Helpful 4
      • Take care with these stepping stones, especially the leaf-shaped ones. They can crack.
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      • Wear plastic gloves if you are making a handprint in the stepping stone. Cover your foot with plastic wrap if you are making a footprint.
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      Things You'll Need

      Making a Mosaic Stepping Stone

      • Cake pan, pie pan, or shallow cardboard box
      • Petroleum jelly or cooking spray
      • Chicken wire
      • Safety goggles
      • Rubber gloves
      • Dust mask
      • Dry concrete mix
      • Bucket, trowel, and water (for mixing concrete)
      • Mosaic tiles, glass gems, shells, etc
      • Varnish (optional)

      Making a Leaf-Shaped Stepping Stone

      • Large leaf (hosta, rhubarb, gunnera, etc)
      • Petroleum jelly or cooking spray
      • Safety goggles
      • Rubber gloves
      • Dust mask
      • Dry concrete mix
      • Bucket, trowel, and water (for mixing concrete)
      • Varnish (optional)


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      References

      1. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/diy-stepping-stones/
      2. ↑ http://www.intimateweddings.com/blog/how-to-make-stepping-stones-with-a-cake-pan/
      3. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/diy-stepping-stones/
      4. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/diy-stepping-stones/
      5. ↑ https://gardentherapy.ca/diy-concrete-stepping-stones/
      6. ↑ http://www.intimateweddings.com/blog/how-to-make-stepping-stones-with-a-cake-pan/
      7. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/diy-stepping-stones/
      8. ↑ http://www.intimateweddings.com/blog/how-to-make-stepping-stones-with-a-cake-pan/
      9. ↑ http://lovelygreens.com/2015/08/diy-sea-glass-stepping-stone.html
      1. ↑ http://lovelygreens.com/2015/08/diy-sea-glass-stepping-stone.html
      2. ↑ http://lovelygreens.com/2015/08/diy-sea-glass-stepping-stone.html
      3. ↑ http://www.intimateweddings.com/blog/how-to-make-stepping-stones-with-a-cake-pan/
      4. ↑ http://www.intimateweddings.com/blog/how-to-make-stepping-stones-with-a-cake-pan/
      5. ↑ http://lovelygreens.com/2015/08/diy-sea-glass-stepping-stone.html
      6. ↑ http://lovelygreens.com/2015/08/diy-sea-glass-stepping-stone.html
      7. ↑ https://gardentherapy.ca/hosta-stepping-stones/
      8. ↑ https://gardentherapy.ca/hosta-stepping-stones/
      9. ↑ https://gardentherapy.ca/hosta-stepping-stones/
      10. ↑ https://gardentherapy.ca/hosta-stepping-stones/
      11. ↑ https://gardentherapy.ca/hosta-stepping-stones/
      12. ↑ https://gardentherapy.ca/hosta-stepping-stones/
      13. ↑ https://gardentherapy.ca/hosta-stepping-stones/
      14. ↑ Benjamin Hansen. Licensed Landscape Contractor. Expert Interview. 6 October 2020.
      15. ↑ Benjamin Hansen. Licensed Landscape Contractor. Expert Interview. 6 October 2020.
      16. ↑ Benjamin Hansen. Licensed Landscape Contractor. Expert Interview. 6 October 2020.
      17. ↑ Benjamin Hansen. Licensed Landscape Contractor. Expert Interview. 6 October 2020.
      18. ↑ https://gardentherapy.ca/diy-concrete-stepping-stones/
      19. ↑ https://gardentherapy.ca/diy-concrete-stepping-stones/
      20. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/diy-stepping-stones/

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      To make stepping stones, choose a mold, like a cake pan or a plastic tub, then coat the mold with petroleum jelly or cooking oil to make removing the stone easier. Prepare concrete according to the instructions on the package, then pour around 2 inches into the mold. Next, choose decorative mosaic pieces, like tiles, sea glass, and seashells, and press them into the concrete so no jagged edges stick out. Allow to set for 2 days, then remove by flipping the container over onto a soft surface. To learn how to use chicken wire or mesh to prevent your stepping stone from breaking, keep reading!

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