Reading really does rock! I love reading, print books over online readers, and created a few reading rocks to leave in some of the little free libraries we’ve seen on our travels.
This rock was painted green on both sides. Remember that each side must be totally dry before turning it over.
I had a little sketch to follow (upper right corner). The trick to paining rocks is patience … be sure to wait for each section to dry before moving on to the next phase.
- First white lines were painted on to represent the shelves.
- Then different coloured rectangles were added for the books.
- Once this was totally dry the books were outlined using a black marker and words were added to each book.
- At the bottom I added the I love books words.
- Once all the paint was dry a layer of glossy Mod Podge was added.
- When dry you can add your name or name of the group on the back.
- Let dry and add Mod Podge.
- When both sides are dry I sprayed with a fixative that will protect the rocks while out in the weather elements.
This fun little I love reading rock was painted all red first, both sides. I love using google eyes to make projects a bit more realistic. Glue on with E6000. Paint on the mouth and teeth. Add the words with a black marker.
When the front is totally dry, coat in glossy Mod Podge. Let dry, flip the rock and coat the other side. When dry, spray with a fixative to protect the rock for the outside elements.
I usually make a sketch before painting. The above sketch is the I love reading rock with lots of different mouth/teeth combinations. I will be making more of these over the winter.
Here is my book of ideas for rock painting. It’s the place where I sketch my ideas and ideas that I see. I can look back for inspiration, add notes, add colour schemes, and a lot more. It is a WIP.
These rocks are ready to leave at the little libraries or outside the main libraries. These are some of the little free libraries I’ve visited … in BC and Ontario. Have you ever visited a little free library?
I do add my website name so that those that find the rocks can check in and let me know if they wish. I belong to a couple of rock sharing groups and put that name on the back also.
Be sure to have a look at my rock projects and see all the other types of rocks I’ve painted.
Margy
We have several free libraries in town. I drop of some of Wayne’s books when we go to breakfast at the cafe next door. The books don’t sell very fast at the bookstore, but they go like hotcakes from the free library. – Margy
ysnelda
Muy creativas tus rocas de lectura. Una maravilla las bibliotecas gratuitas, que puedan difundirse a todas partes.
Saludos.
Translation: Your reading rocks are very creative. Wonderful free libraries, which can be disseminated everywhere. Regards.
Michelle
These are so awesome!
Margie
I used to work at the library in high school (I shelved the books) so I’ve always had a soft spot for the little free libraries. There’s one in my neighbourhood and another one near my work. This post reminds me that I’ve been meaning to drop off some books at the LFL near work!
Crafty Gardener
I worked in the school library too. I just put together some kids books from my teaching days and several gardening magazines to take to the little free libraries when I leave the rocks. I’d love to have one but we don’t get the right kind of passing foot traffic, mostly cars just going by.
Teresa
I love this idea! I wish we had those free libraries in Portugal too, but I’ve never seen one.
Thank you for sharing at The Really Crafty Link Party this week. Pinned.
Julie
These are perfect for hiding near a mini library. What fun!