Is It Hard To Make Fake Rocks?

If you are interested in the possibilities of these projects but are skeptical of your ability to make any of these items just remember that working with concrete is a learned skill. It will take practice and more than likely a few of your first projects will end up in the trash as opposed to your yard. Fortunately, other than the time you need to invest, there is very little cost associated with making fake rocks so you can build like crazy even on a very modest materials budget. In fact most of the materials that you need for things like this can, and should, be sourced second hand and from recycled hardware stores.





Basically artificial rock is just a decorative concrete finish. If you have some fundamental concrete skills, or are willing to learn, the artificial rock process will allow you to transform boring old concrete into something extremely uncommon and interesting





Since artificial rock sculpting is an art form in addition to a construction process the quality of the finished product will have everything to do with the quality of the artist sculpting it. Those with a greater degree of sculpting and drawing skill will likely produce higher quality, more lifelike rock creations however it is important to note that just about anyone can make realistic looking rocks. The reality is that concrete and stone have very similar overall properties. By adjusting the texture, shape and color of concrete you can produce a result that is extremely similar to the tactile feel, color and shape of real rocks. The major advantage of artificial rocks versus real stone is that concrete is such a versatile building medium. Concrete is extremely strong, durable and long lasting as well as being suitable for structural building.







Fake Rock Texture Skins

Artificial rock is essentially three dimensional stamped concrete. Just as a stamped concrete pool deck or driveway would have a texture imprint so does artificial rock except that the texture skins you would use are much smaller and thinner than what a stamped concrete contractor would use. Typically stamped concrete texture skins are very large, very heavy and very expensive and are designed only for use on flat work. Artificial rock construction requires a much thinner, and more flexible texture skin to allow you to conform to the contours of your concrete.







Granite Texture Stamp



This granite concrete texture stamp is ideal for almost any artificial rock project. The aggressive texture produces the most realistic rock appearance as well as being the most forgiving to use for people new to making artificial rocks. These stamps measure approximately 10" in circumference and are made by Steve specifically for entry level enthusiasts to use for making artificial rocks. If you would like to buy this texture skin from Steve they are $40 each or a set of 3 for $99.



How To Paint Artificial Rocks