I was introduced to our little craft, rock painting, by a close friend that had been painting rocks for a few years. She was introduced to the craft, like many, by The Kindness Rocks Project and started by painting Kindness Messages on rocks she could leave around town to brighten someone’s day.
I was immediately hooked. Rock painting was the perfect vehicle – creative, fun, artistic. Rock painting ideas were all around if you took the time to look.
But sometimes, I need a little inspiration – some rock painting ideas from other artists across the globe.
If you’re like me, there are times you’ll sit at your painting table, stare at your rock, and wonder what to paint? So many options, so little time. The point is we all need some inspiration, from time to time, so here are 102 rock painting ideas from some of my favorite rock painting creators, and many I’ll start following after researching this post.
Another method of finding ideas is to use Google. Just type “rock painted” followed by a, b, c, etc. Google will offer useful rock painting ideas for just about every letter in the alphabet.
Also, some of the ideas you come up with will seem difficult and complicated to execute. That’s where seeing how someone else executed a similar project can come in handy.
But before we get to the ideas, let’s review a few Rock Painting FAQs.
Rock Painting FAQs
What is the best paint to use on rocks?
Sometimes, none. I know, a bit of a conundrum. What I mean is there are many other ways to “color” rocks. Sure, paint gets lead billing – it is called rock “painting”. But the truth is many rock painters use different products to color their rocks. I, personally, use paint, paint pens, paint markers and watercolor pencils. Yep, pencils. If you’d like, you can read more about how those work in this article – 3 Easy Techniques to Paint a Sunset on a Rock.
Regarding the others, I use the FolkArt and Apple Barrel brands of acrylic paints. You can find them at Walmart or most craft stores.
For paint pens, my go-to, like many other rock painters, is Uni Posca. I really like how they perform on all rock surfaces. But I do use other paint pens and markers. You can read my review of many here- 8 Paint Pens for Rock Painting – What I Use.
How do you seal rocks for rock painting?
From washing to priming, here’s what I do to make sure all my rock painting projects are prepared to provide years of enjoyment – How do you prepare rocks for rock painting?
What can you use painted rocks for?
Really, the sky’s the limit. Probably the most common uses for painted rocks are:
- Make Kindness Rocks to hide for others to find
- Entertainment – to fuel your hobby/passion for creating things and a great craft for kids.
- To gift to others.
- For decoration around your home.
- For decorative or utilitarian use in your flower beds or garden.
How do you paint rocks for beginners?
I’m glad you asked. I have a tutorial geared especially for beginner rock painters. It covers everything from selecting your rocks, preparing your rocks, selecting paints to use and painting ideas. You can find it if you click the banner below.
Do you need to prime rocks before painting?
The short answer is no. Many rock painters prefer the effects an un-primed rock has on texture. But it really depends on many things – the color of your rock, the colors you plan to use, the texture of the rock, the amount of fine detail in your project, just to name a few. And really, it’s a personal preference. Many rock painters prime all their rocks – many prime none. My suggestion would be to try a few projects with and without primer and see what you like. As mentioned above, this is a good article for more information on preparing and priming rocks – How to prepare rocks for rock painting?
Does acrylic paint wash off rocks?
After acrylic paint has dried it will not wash off painted rocks. Actually, when I use paint on rocks acrylic is my preference. One consideration though is where the painted rocks will be placed. If your plan is for them to be placed outdoors, be sure to use a weatherproof sealer on the rocks to decrease weathering and fading. The amount of that will be dependent on your climate, but sealing will definitely lengthen their lifespan.
And now, here are 102 Awesome Rock Painting Ideas for all Skill Levels!
Animal Rock Painting Ideas – Animal Painted Rocks
1. Farm Animal Painted Rocks by Rock Painting Guide
Old McDonald has nothing on this cute gaggle of farm animal painted rocks. They’re super cute, can be used as story stones and she shares some reading recommendations to help turn these painted rocks into an interactive reading activity.
2. Painted Bird Rock Tutorial by Buggy and Buddy
If you’re looking for an easy rock painting idea to get started, this might be the ticket. Could be a great rock painting idea for kids, too.
3. Shark Painted Rock from I Love Painted Rocks
You’ll love this video tutorial from the I Love Pained Rocks YouTube channel. In it she creates a beautiful, realistic, watercolor shark with watercolor paints and Posca pens.
4. Fish painted rocks by dura.designs
These colorful fish painted rocks are just a joy. If you want to test your ability to use the full-color pallet, this would be a good project.
5. Neon Owl by hfxrocks
I’m mesmerized by the colors on this beautiful neon owl. This is a great example of how color composition can make or break a project.
6. Easter rock painting – little chicks by Mas & Pas
For lil’ chicks in a nest are featured in this adorable and easy-to-follow tutorial. You won’t go afoul with this one!
7. Panda Painted Rocks by Ruby Martnez
I love how Ruby uses colorful backgrounds to make these Pandas pop. She has other wonderful painted rocks on her Pinterest page.
8. Patterned Rocks Snake Craft by I Heart Crafty Things
This is a cute painted snake rock project for all skill levels. In her tutorial, she uses markers, googly eyes and felt to add some flair.
9. Rainbow Snail by Whakatane Rocks on Instagram
Don’t you just love the colors on this snail painted rock? They burst so beautifully! This is definitely on the next projects list!
10. Mother Hen and Chicks painted rocks by Ernestina Gallina
Ernestina is a rock painter extraordinaire! If you’re looking for rock painting inspiration from one of the best at the craft, her Pinterest page is a good place to start.
11. Dog Painted Rock by Corie at Rock Rembrandt
Cow was a beloved family member that we lost to the big kennel in the sky earlier this year. This was a fun project that brings back memories of the special place she held in our hearts. Do you have a family pet that could be the inspiration for your next rock painting project?
12. Ladybug Painted Rocks by Crafts by Amanda
One of the things I love most about rock painting is using color to tell a story. These bright and colorful ladybug rocks by Amanda illustrate that wonderfully.
13. Spike the Hedgehog by Carol’s Rock Painting Tutorials
Hedgehogs are a popular subject for rock painters. They’re adorable and lend themselves to artistic interpretation, like Carol’s. Her Hedgehog is creative and whimsical and she has a detailed tutorial of how she created what she describes as A Splish, Splash, Splosh, Splatter & Scribble Tutorial. So good.
14. Cute Bee Painted Rock by The Domestic Heart
Shelly at The Domestic Heart gives you seven for the price of one in her bee painted rock tutorial. She shows you how to create the typical yellow bumble along with several cute, colorful bee related images.
15. DIY tutorial penguin painted on rock by Kmy art n craft
Kmy details every step in this rock painted penguin tutorial on YouTube. This would be a fun and easy project for a cold winter afternoon.
16. Cats Painted Rock by Kristy Schlaghecke
Kristy takes a different approach to the typical cat painted rock with this backside perspective of three spotted, striped and tiger-striped cats sitting on a fence on a stary night.
17. Rainbow Fish painted Rock by Nicole Casaceli
If you’re a fan of blue you’ll love Nicole’s take on aquatic life in this beautiful rainbow fish. Her use of metallics really makes this stand out. And I love the fish’s yellow lips to add some contrast!
18. Owl Painted Rocks by Frugal Fun for Boys and Girls
Sarah paints 5 different owls in this rock painting tutorial including a Barred and Snowy owl plus 3 whimsical owl rocks. I like how her use of browns and earth tones work cohesively to make a cute owl painted rock family.
I have a tutorial on how to draw and paint a Snowy Owl painted rock here.
19. Dinosaur set of painted rocks by Wendy Duhe
Wendy’s rocks are alive – glossy and beautiful. I love how her work combines photorealism with almost cartoon-type images – beautiful. If you’re looking for dinosaur rock painting ideas (or just about anything else), check her out.
20. Piggy Rock by SGE
OK, this is a different twist from your typical pig painted rock – but isn’t it cute and funny?
21. Bunny and Carrot Painted Rock by Amy Clark
Amy is a really talented artist that has many beautiful painted rocks on Pinterest. I love this one because it’s a great example of simplicity well executed. Natural rock with a funny bunny and carrot – nice.
22. 3 Fox Rock Painting Ideas by Sarah at Ruffles and Rain Boots
Sarah has a detailed and easy-to-follow video tutorial on How to Draw and Paint Fox Rock Paintings. Sarah’s quite talented and makes her tutorials fun for all skill levels of rock painters.
23. Easy DIY Dragonfly Rock Painting for Beginners by Paint Momma
Paint Momma’s YouTube channel is focused on nail painting but she has one rock painting tutorial that I think is quite interesting. Her take on painting a dragonfly incorporates a mandala-styled technique to the typical dragonfly rock painting approach. And her use of colors is brilliant!
24. Ribbit Frog Rock Painting Tutorial by Rock Painting Workshops
Anne’s tutorials are colorful and easy to follow. This simple frog painted rock would be great for a beginner’s rock painting project for someone thinking about dipping their toes in the rock painting world.
25. Sheep Painted Rocks by Crafts by Amanda
Amanda’s sheep are adorable. Heads peeking out from a sea of fluffiness – so creative. This is a simple rock painting project that will have you herding rock sheep in no time.
26. Easy Turtle Painted Rocks by Simple Everyday Mom
Sam’s turtles in this rock painting tutorial are beautiful with a lovely contrast of color. She has easy-to-follow directions and a video that is great for all age groups.
I also have a tutorial for a turtle painted rock that was inspired by a dog’s curiosity. You can learn more about that, here.
27. Downloadable Happy Mouse Rock Painting Tutorial by StepbyStepStones
If you need a little help with your rock painting and are willing to pay a small amount for step-by-step instructions, StepbyStepStones has many detailed tutorials on her Etsy page. This one was $4.99 at the time of this publication.
28. Hand-painted rock (Flamingo) by DiegoGodoyArt
Diego Godoy is a talented UK artist that works in rock painting and other mediums. I really like his use of shadows in this flamingo rock painting.
29. Rainbow rock for a giraffe lover by wolvistonrocks
Christine Jenkins is a talented rock painting artist. This rock combines beautiful scenery, a rainbow and giraffe in one lovely painted rock.
30. Dotted Caterpillar on a Rock by DecoToes
With so many beautiful painted rocks in a post like this, it’s difficult to not overuse superlatives. But this wonderful caterpillar painted rock, and the woman that produced it are truly amazing. Check out her YouTube channel where she creates beautiful art with her feet.
31. Thanksgiving Turkeys Painted on Rocks by Cindy Thomas
Cindy has many charming painted rocks on her Facebook page including these whimsical turkeys that would make a fun holiday rock painting project.
32. Elephant Stone by Sehnaz BAC
F. Sehnaz Bac is a phenomenal artist, illustrator and author. Her rock painting art is breathtaking and definitely for the advanced craftsperson. My motto is, aim high and practice!
33. The Lovebirds by Messy Little Monster
In this post, Louise creates 4 adorable Valentine’s painted rocks: Love Bugs, Two Hearts, Significant Otters and this delightful pair of Lovebirds. Her post includes instructions on how to draw and paint each rock.
34. Preschool Alphabet Rock Stones (including this Hh is for hippo painted rock) by The Inspiration Edit
There are so many wonderful painted rocks in this tour de force of an alphabet rock painting post by Angela. I particularly like the contrast of the grey hippo on the black background.
35. Painted Rock Dogs Tic Tac Toe Game by Dalmatian DIY
This is a clever twist on painting dogs on a rock. In this post, they create 10 painted dog rocks to use as tic tac toe pieces so you can truly “face-off” your opponent.
36. Teddy Bear painted rock by MamaSkisArtistry
Is there anything cuddlier than a teddy bear? Add some colorful balloons and vibrant background and you have the makings for a charming rock painting project.
37. Jellyfish painted rock by Cindi Riley
Cindi is very talented and her Facebook page is full of beautiful rock paintings she’s created over the years. This jellyfish is gorgeous with its vibrant colors and delicate features.
38. Halloween Spider Painted Rock by Debbie Hay
Creepy, crawly and creative are how I’d describe this vibrant spider painted rock. When October rolls around you’ll want to add this project to your rock painting list.
39. More ocean meditations… by Kala Escobar
If you’re not familiar with Kala, you should be. Her work is simply stunning and she’s one of my favorite rock painters. A lot can be learned from her use of color and ability to blend so perfectly.
40. Colorful and Cheerful Flower Painted Rocks by Sustain my Craft Habit
These simple, bright and colorful flowers are the creation of Jane and Sonja at Sustain my Craft Habit. The post illustrates detailed instructions for each of the flowers along with a video to help you with this fun project.
41. Prickly Cactus Painted Rock by Debbie Hay
Here’s another creation from Debbie Hay. I just love how she uses colors in such a complementary way. The cacti on the red background are enhanced by the yellow sun in this rock painting.
42. How to Make a Cactus Rock Garden by Rock Rembrandt
This is my interpretation of a cactus rock garden. This project was super fun and simpler than you might expect.
43. How to Paint a Dandelion Wish Rock by Paint Happy Rocks
Dandelions can be really difficult to pull off, with their fine details and delicate features. I think Adrianne does a nice job on this rock that just screams Spring!
Space Painted Rocks
44. Solar system painted rock by Shelia Powell
On this rock, Shelia makes what would seem to be a daunting task seem quite simple with her interpretation of the solar system. Wait, is that Pluto??? 😉
45. Painting Galaxy On Rock by Tatiana Urbankova
In this YouTube video, Tatiana demonstrates how she paints a galaxy on a rock. She has a few galaxy rock painting demonstrations on her channel.
46. When Aliens Attack! Painted Rock by LTsRocks
If you do a search for alien painted rocks 95% of the results will be lil’ green person faces. I think you’ll agree this one stands out. What an artful use of color! (P.S. this photo is from her Etsy store so the link could be missing in the future, sorry).
47. Another little space dude by Crafty Owl Mama
One more from space. Thought this was an interesting way to combine the terrestrial with extraterrestrial in your rock painting.
Holiday Rock Painting Ideas
Valentines Painted Rocks
48. Heart shaped mandala painted rock by ChristysCornerShop
Painted hearts are everywhere on Valentine’s Day but this super pink, heart painted rock is a clever way to incorporate mandala art into your Valentine rock projects.
St. Patrick’s Day Painted Rocks
49. Four-leaf clover painted rainbow rock by Ruffles & Rain Boots
In this rock painting tutorial, Sarah shows you how to paint a simple clover and how to bled paint pens – a twofer!
Easter Painted Rocks
50. Easter Painted Rocks by Alleluia Rocks
Just about everything Laura makes is beautiful and these Easter Story Stones, Easter Bunny Story Stones, Easter Painted Rocks, Easter Basket gifts, Easter gift, Hand-painted story rocks, as she describes them, are no exception. And she sells her painted rocks if you’d like one for inspiration.
51. Rachel’s Rocks Easter egg rock tutorial by Rachel’s Rocks Canada
This is an excellent tutorial detailing her approach to producing these beautifully painted rocks. She explains everything from brush modification to her paint blending process.
Mother’s Day Painted Rocks
52. Mother’s Day Sunflower Mother Painted Rock by Debbie Hay
This is a simple yet elegant twist on a Mother’s Day painted rock. I love the flowers as border accents.
Halloween Painted Rocks
53. Magical Halloween Silhouette Painted Rocks by Adventure in a Box
Don’t these painted rocks just scream Halloween? In this tutorial, they illustrate how to create these freehand but also have a link to their process to do transfers using stencils and carbon paper.
54. Halloween Ghosts by FunHappyHome
Boo! These cute ghost painted rocks would be a fun project with the kids at Halloween. In this tutorial, she explains the ghosts and four other Halloween staples.
55. Frankenstein’s monster painted rock by Rock Painting 101
Another Halloween favorite, Frank isn’t the only one green with envy over this adorable painted rock. Igor, get the brushes!
Christmas Painted Rocks
56. Christmas Rock Painting Idea – The North Pole by Sarah Nenni-Daher
In this video tutorial, Sarah creates a cartoonish North Pole Christmas painted rock. The tutorial is simple and very easy to follow – good for all skill levels.
57. Christmas Trees painted rock by Cynthia Harris
Animated and Dr. Seuss-ish, these trees would be a fun rock painting project on a cold winter’s day.
58. Nutcracker painted rock by MamaSkisArtistry
The Nutcracker is a holiday tradition in my family and I can’t think of a better way to celebrate that tradition than a beautiful painted rock. This one is charming!
59. Santa rock painting by Must Have Mom
Sarah has four cute and clever tutorials on this post including St. Nick himself. There’s nothing like simplicity done well.
Thanksgiving Painted Rocks
60. Thanksgiving painted rocks by Wendy Duhe
These painted rocks could work for Thanksgiving, Fall or even Halloween. Pumpkins and leaves and hay, oh my!
The Seasons Rock Painting Ideas
Winter Rock Painting Ideas
61. Winter Rock Painting Ideas: Three Fun Designs by Rock Rembrandt
In this article, I share three winter rock painting ideas: a Polar Bear painted rock, Snowman painted rock and a snow-covered tree painted rock.
Spring Painted Rocks
62. Spring Story Stones by Alleluia Rocks
Alleluia rocks are so bright and cheerful. This array of Spring themed painted rocks is sure to spark some ideas for your own project.
Summer Rock Painting Ideas
63. Sumer – Watermelon painted rock by wanderstones
I don’t know about you but watermelon is one of my favorite summertime treats! Use this theme/idea to create your own favorite summertime treat, painted rock. Oranges? Snow cones? Ice cream?
Fall Rock Painting Ideas
64. Fall Leaves by scribblystones
I don’t think anything screams Fall more than the changing of the leaves. In some areas of the country, it’s breathtaking. What a great idea for some fall leaves painted rocks you won’t have to rake! (She has an Etsy store, also).
Mandala Painted Rocks
65. Dot Art Mandala Rock Painting by Lydia May
In this video tutorial, Lydia creates this beautiful mandala painted rock using typical household items. Her dot art videos are comprehensive and easy to follow.
66. Mandala stone by Go Mandalas
If you’ve been in this craft long enough you know there are some amazingly talented artists – especially in mandala art. Go Mandalas has many beautiful creations on her FB page. She also has an Etsy store.
67. Mandala Stones DIY by Colorful Crafts
Here’s another detailed, step-by-step guide if you’re just getting started with dot art. Barbara does a wonderful job walking you through the entire process of producing an amazing mandala stone with easy mandala rock designs.
Food Painted Rocks
68. Candy Corn Painted Rocks by Mommy Ramblings
You might get a cavity just thinking about this project. But these sweet, whimsical candy corn painted rocks will be a hit at any Halloween party.
69. Taco Painted Rocks by Artsy-Fartsy Mama
Lindsay shows you how to create these simple taco painted rocks in this tutorial. A creative way to take taco Tuesday to the next level.
70. Bacon and Eggs painted rocks by Rock Rembrandt
We have a running joke in my family to give bacon-themed gag gifts for special occasions. Wonder who will be getting these???
71. How to Paint Strawberry Rocks by Empress of Dirt
Melissa shows you how to paint these colorful strawberry rocks in this fun post. Wouldn’t a basket of these look great as a centerpiece?
72. M&M Painted Rocks by The Inspiration Edit
M&M painted rocks are somewhat of a staple in most rock painting guides, but I really like these for their clever expressions.
73. Burger and Fries painted rocks (tic tac toe) by rockthiswaystore
These clever lil’ tic tac toe rocks are a great way to enjoy rock painting with the kids then let them beat you in a game of tic tac toe. She has an Etsy store too.
74. Pineapple painted rock by HFXrocks
If you’re going to paint a pineapple on a rock why not create one that will make someone’s day. A pineapple with great principles!
75. Fruit Painted Kindness Rocks by Sustain my Craft Habit
In this post, Jane and Sonja show you how to paint three cute kindness fruit rocks – pear, plum and grapes.
76. Cupcake painted rock by Happiness is Homemade
In this post Heidi shares how she makes this cupcake pained rock (and three others) with paint pens and markers.
77. Donut inspired mandala stone by The Dotting Center
In this comprehensive video tutorial, Rachel paints mandala stones inspired by donuts with a thick pink glaze and rainbow sprinkles – beautiful!
Sports Painted Rocks
78. Sports team rocks by Your Spirit Rocks
If you’re a sports fan, painting your team’s logo on a rock is a great way to share the spirit.
79. Baseball Mom painted rock by LittleGardenGems
I’m sure a lot of us can relate, whether it’s baseball, soccer, football, etc. This idea would make a great gift, also.
80. Soccer ball by Kerri’s Rocks and Art
For all the soccer fans I just love the contrast on this rock. The white/black, green and red just pop! A good lesson in color composition.
81. Tennis shoe by Rock Art Attack
Lefteris Kanetis is an extremely talented artist that produces some amazing painted rocks. In this video, he demonstrates his technique to create these amazing Converse tennis shoes. Here’s his Etsy store if you’re interested in purchasing his work.
82. Snoopy basketball painted rock by Amy Clark
A classic Peanuts scene comes to life on this painted rock by Amy Clark. I Like this rock for its artsy simplicity.
Game Rock Painting Ideas
83. Super Mario and Friends painted rock by bilskirocksart
Bilskirocksart describe themselves as a “husband and wife team of kick-## rock painters from Winnipeg, Canada” – can’t say I disagree. Check out their social media pages for more awesome rocks.
84. Tic-tac-toe Travel Game by where the SMILES have been
This super simple and clever tic tac toe game would make an excellent starter project for an aspiring rock painter.
85. Paint Rock Domino by PiedraCreativa
This is an interesting twist on the traditional dominos set using colors and numerals. And they have a Spanish-speaking, video tutorial too.
Movie, TV, Super Hero and Cartoon Rock Painting Ideas
86. Minion Rock Painting By Barbara Beal
Minion are another staple rock painting theme but these are super cute. Painted by Barbara Beal on The Inspiration Edit website.
87. Snoopy and Woodstock painted rock by Hand Painted Andrea
I can hear the theme just looking at this Peanuts painted rock. Snoopy and Woodstock are adorable and I love the winter painted rock theme.
88. Peanuts character painted rocks by dura.designs
Doesn’t get more iconic than this. Charlie, Snoopy and Woodstock are great subjects for your next rock painting excursion. These by Cara Dura are particularly nice.
89. The Simpsons (The Flanders) by dura.designs
This is another attractive creation from Cara. Her artistry is unmistakable but I love how she frames her work with color and contrast.
90. Angry Birds Painted Rocks by Living Life as Moms
In this post, Monique creates some cute, yet very Angry Birds! She uses paint and markers and details her process in this easy-to-follow tutorial.
91. Winnie the Pooh & friends painted rock by jenevererocks
Jenevere shows off her talent with this cute portrait of Pooh characters painted with Pintar paint pens.
92. Wonder Woman painted rock by Artistro
Two imaginative Wonder Woman painted rocks using Artistro paint pens.
93. How to Paint Harry Potter Easter Eggs by Adventure in a Box
Wait, what? Easter Eggs??? I know, but these eggs and the detailed instructions were so good I had to share. So quit your whining and find an egg-shaped rock 😉.
Other Rock Painting Ideas
94. Acrylic Pour Painting on a Rock by McE Art
OK, if you’re into large, abstract paint pouring projects this one’s for you! In this video, she shows exactly how she created this wild painted rock – her first attempt at pouring a rock. Well done, I’d say.
95. Feather painted rock by jenevererocks
This creative feather was produced using spray paint and Artistro pens. A great lesson on how rock shape can enhance the subject.
96. Four Rainbow Painted Rocks by Rock Rembrandt
This project was inspired by a lovely rainbow we encountered on a family road trip. I hope you enjoy these as much as I enjoyed painting them.
97. Sugar Skull painted rocks by Rock-It With Linda
Ok, I have to admit when these are done well, I really like sugar skull rocks. It’s something about the artistry colliding with the macabre.
98. How to draw Emoji Rocks with acrylic paint by Jay Lee Painting
In this 5-minute video tutorial Jay demonstrates how he creates 14 simple emojis with paint and markers. It’s easy to follow and would be great as a rock painting for beginners’ reference.
99. Kindness Rocks by paperedthoughts
Kindness rocks could easily have their own post on great ideas – and will soon. For now, I leave you with these vibrant kindness rocks. We do have an entire post on the Kindness Rocks Project with more examples and a history of the project.
100. Alphabet Story Stones by Alleluia Rocks
Alphabet stones are a great way to teach and inspire, and Alleluia Rock’s version are my favorites. What an insightful kid’s rock painting project.
102. Love painted rock by Debbie Hay
And last, how could it be anything else when, all you need is love. Debbie’s art is amazing and this love painted rock is the icing on the cake – for her and this post.
I hope you enjoyed this tour of what I think are some of the best, rock painting ideas on the Internet. So now you have a plethora of ideas to get that creativity going. Get out your paint and pens and start creating your own Rock Rembrandts!
Thanks for reading!