motivational painted rock paper weights

Motivational painted rock paperweights are an easy gift you can make for any occasion. If your office mate needs a pep talk or you need to tell yourself to just hang in there, a motivational painted rock might be just what you need. Use the motivational message to help you get through the day. You could make the inspirational gifts for teachers, coaches, mom, dad or anyone who could use a little pep in their day. Plus painted rocks are super trendy now and who would not want a cool item displayed proudly on their desk.

The hombre rock below was painted with Martha Stewart Mult-Surface paint in pearlized colors and the wording is created with Posca paint pens.

This rock was painted with a black Sharpie and colored with Posca pens. The Sharpie bled a little when the varnish was added to the top. Skip the top coat with Sharpies.

Be best – has a clear base coat and is decorated with Posca Pens and a protective coating on top. Varnish or Outdoor Mod Podge works well. The “be best” is for a particular friend who is very into politics.

Below is a list of supplies I have found to work well on rocks. The list is by no means exhaustive. If you have something that works well please share we love learning about new products or techniques. If you make a purchase by clicking a link below I make a small commission.
These motivational rocks were painted with a combination of Elmer’s Painters and Posca pens and sealed with matte varnish.

motivational painted rock paperweights shopping list:

instructions for motivational painted rock paperweights:

Find rocks from your yard, landscape store or purchase online.
Make sure the rocks are free of dirt and debris and are dry.
Seal rocks before decorating. I use the same supplies for the base coat and the topcoat.
Draw a pattern for the base color.
Apply a base coat.
Use paint markers to write the phrases and the design. Allow to dry in between coats and repeat as needed.
Seal with Mod Podge or Ceramcoat Exterior/Interior Varnish to keep paint from chipping. I speak from experience.