How to Make Personalized Stepping Stones

 

Personalize the walkway to your front door or backyard garden with a homemade stepping stone. Stepping stone kits cost around $20. Purchasing your own supplies separately saves money, especially if you plan to make multiple stones. In addition, making your own stone allows you to create a one-of-a-kind decoration. Follow these easy steps to add a personal touch to your yard.

Making Your Stepping Stone

Decide on a shape for the stepping stone. Purchase a circle, square or octagon-shaped clear, plastic mold at your local craft store for around $2. While at the craft store, also pick up a bag of stepping stone concrete. It will cost around $4 for enough concrete to make three or four stepping stones. Purchase a bag of colored stones to complement the color scheme of your stone.

Prepare your work surface. Lay down newspaper and put on your gloves and safety glasses. Set the stepping stone mold on top of the newspaper.

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Mix the concrete according to the instructions on the bag. Pour the concrete into the plastic mold about 3/4 of the way full. Gently tap the mold on the ground several times to spread the concrete evenly throughout the mold. Let the mold set for 45 minutes.

Gently place colored stones in the concrete. If you want to make a hand print or write something in the concrete, do it before placing the colored stones. Use the pen to inscribe your message.

Set the stepping stone aside, leaving it undisturbed for two days. Pop it out of the mold and place in your yard.

Tips & Warnings

1. Try decorations other than colored stones for your stepping stone.
2. If you make a mistake while decorating the stone, simply remove the items, smooth out the concrete with a craft stick and start over.

How to Clean a Mildew Stained Sidewalk

 

Unsightly mildew stains on sidewalks can greatly detract from the appearance of your home or business. These stains are usually resilient to most commercial cleaning agents, and cleaning products tailored for mold and mildew stain removal can be expensive. But there are methods you can employ with items you likely already have in your home. Make a simple solution with these common items and implement these techniques to successfully clean stubborn mildew stains from your sidewalk.

Instructions

1. Mix a solution of 1/2 quart of household chlorine bleach and 1 gallon of water in a bucket.
2. Apply the bleach solution to the stained sidewalk with a clean sponge. Allow to set for 30 minutes.
3. Scrub the mildew affected area with a nylon-bristled brush.
4. Rinse the sidewalk with clean hot water.
5. Repeat steps as necessary if mildew growth returns.

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How to Make Personalized Stepping Stones

Tips & Warnings

• Never mix bleach with other chemicals as certain agents can produce toxic fumes if combined.
• Keep bleach out of the reach of children and pets.