Hands On

This steppingstone project from Plaid combines two hot craft trends: outdoor decor and mosaics. Use the octagonal stone to decorate a garden or yard.

Materials you’ll need: a fast-drying concrete mix; Plaid’s Stepping Stone Mold; Make-It Mosaics Grout; Make-It Mosaics Adhesive; various tiles, glass chips and marbles; a design of your choice. Optional: tile nippers, Plaid’s Grout Colorant Pack and Make-It Mosaics Sealer.

Directions:

1. Mix the fast-drying concrete and pour it into the mold.

2. With a straight stick, level the concrete. Let it dry completely, then remove it from the mold.

3. Using the adhesive, glue the mosaic pieces into place in a pattern you have chosen. You may need to use tile nippers to cut pieces into the size and shape you want. Let the adhesive dry for 12 to 24 hours.

4. If desired, tint the grout with colorant until the desired shade is achieved.

5. Apply the grout to the top of the design using your fingers, a float or a spatula. Make sure the grout is pushed into all the small areas.

6. Allow the grout to set for 10 to 15 minutes. Wipe off the excess with a damp sponge. Once the grout is dry, polish the mosaic pieces with a soft cloth. You can seal the stone with sealer, which will make it stain- and weather-resistant.

7. The finished steppingstone.

Cost: Materials retail for about $1.99 to $15.99. Products are available at Michaels and other crafts retailers. More information is available from Plaid’s Web site, https://www.plaidonline.com.