Post #321190 by TikiMike on Wed, Jul 25, 2007 6:48 PM

I've made some progress on the fake boulders. Let me know if you have any questions on the process!

I started by covering the piles of old bricks & rubble with concrete

Next, I covered the surface with a mortar mix (I used Quikrete "Pro Finish"). This is where I shaped the boulder using a scredriver for cracks. I also pushed real rocks into the surface to create ridges and textures. I sprinked off white and charcoal color hardener to create a speckled effect.

Next, I rubbed on an off white color-hardener mixed with water. I just loosely rubbed the surface with my hand to hit the high points.

Now the same process with a terra cotta color

Now a tan color

Next, I used a liquid color tint mixed with water to create a color wash. This color is "buff", basically a red/orange. I just splatterd it on with a paintbrush.

Next was the same liquid wash process using a charcoal color. I did this in several applications to keep them from getting too dark too fast. This step knocks down some of the color and accentuates the cracks and textures.

Finally, I used a "natural look" (no gloss) acrylic sealer on all of the boulders. Now I need to get some plants in there!