LET’S ROCK
Get Started!
There are no rigid rules to being part of the rock painting phenomenon. You can use “found” stones or buy smooth river rocks by the bag. Paint your design with inexpensive acrylic paints. (Because kids are often the “finders,” keep those designs G-rated, please!) You can use paint markers for fine detail. Once paint is dry, seal it with a spray-on clear sealer for protection against the elements. Leave your rock outside in a public place. Be respectful of businesses and private property, and never leave a rock where it can cause harm. If you find a rock, you can keep it or give it away—immediately or whenever the mood strikes. “Once you put your rocks out there, you don’t own them anymore,” says Cindy Lynn, who routinely keeps a painted rock in her pocket so she always has one to leave. “We really just want to spread joy and inspire creativity. It’s a way of paying it forward, giving freely without the expectation of anything in return,” she adds. “You’re randomly leaving something for someone else to find and make their day.”
LEARN MORE › Visit
Facebook and search “Ocala Rocks.” Just be sure to locate the “official” page! You can also use #ocalarocks on Instagram if you aren’t on Facebook.
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› Ocala
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Want to get in on the rock painting craze? Whether you’re looking to play hide-and-seek with these rocks or just want an artistic way to relax and unwind, we have the essentials needed to get you started.
The Rocks
Florida isn’t exactly known for its rocky landscape. That said, you can purchase smooth river rocks from any home improvement store. A 20-pound bag will probably run you around $10. Many local landscape companies are also allowing “rockers” to fill 5-pound buckets with the rocks of their choice for just $5. We know the following businesses offer that sweet deal. There may be others, so call around before making the drive. › Mulch & Stone Superstore, 7699 SW State road 200, Ocala › Dirt Cheap, 13265 US 441,
Summerfield › Southern Aggregate (The
Rockyard), 7598 SE 59th Ct., Ocala › Rural King offers a
large bag of river rocks for $3, 2999 NW 10th Street, Ocala
The Supplies
If you’re going to be placing your rock outside, you’ll want to use acrylic paint. We like the 50-cent variety found in the craft aisle at Walmart. Make sure to invest in a variety of brush sizes and styles, including flat tip and pointed paint brushes. Again, any discount store (or Amazon for the home shopper) can hook you up. If you really want to get fancy, acrylic paint markers are the way to go. Many people find the markers easier to control than a paint brush, and by selecting fine or ultra-fine tips, you can get the tiny details and outlining just right. Once your masterpiece is complete, seal it with a clear sealant. Glossy or matte is your choice. We like Rust-Oleum Clear Gloss spray. If you’re going for an extra glossy shine, try Deco Art Triple Thick Brilliant Brush On Glaze. An 8-ounce jar should run you less than $6.
The Ideas
Don’t consider yourself an artist? No worries. A quick Google or Pinterest search will yield thousands of rock-painting ideas. Go crazy! There are also plenty of popular books now at local bookstores or on Amazon. Our new favorite is Rock Art! Painting and Crafting with the Humble Pebble by Denise Scicluna.
The Event
Ocala Style staff members have been busy painting rocks the last few weeks, and we want to give them away— to you and your little ones!
Ocala Style Rocks
We’re going to hide hundreds of rocks (including the ones pictured throughout this story), and we want you to find them! Oh, and there will be prizes, too! You could win a $50 gift card to Harry’s Seafood Bar and Grille in downtown Ocala or a gift basket filled with painting goodies. And don’t forget to stop by our painting station to paint your very own rock creations to hide so you can keep the fun going! › Saturday, October 28, 10am-12pm › Scott Springs Park, Ocala › Find out more information at facebook.com/ocalastyle.