Stepping Stones

Making stepping stones is becoming an annual tradition here. They're simple to make and can make Moms and Grandmas alike melt at first sight.

To make your own stepping stones, you'll need:
Pie tins

Quickcrete or similar product

Water

Decorations- shells, beads, buttons, etc.

Sand (optional)

Skewer or stick

Mix your concrete according to package directions. You'll need about 2.5 to 3 cups of dry mix per stone depending on the size of your pie tins.

To make upside-down stones like the one pictured at right, you'll want to pour 1/8 inch of sand in the bottom of the pie tin. Place your shells, beads and other decorative items in the sand. Keep in mind that whatever side you place down in the sand will actually be on the top of your stone when you invert it. Carefully pour mixed concrete into the pie tin. Gently lift the filled tin and tap the bottom on a flat surface to remove any air bubbles. If doing more than one, write names in the concrete to tell them apart. Let dry for at least 24 hours before inverting and wiping the sand off.

To make hand print stones like the one at the top, pour concrete mix into the pie tin. Gently lift filled tin and tap the bottom on a flat surface to remove any air bubbles. Let sit about 15 minutes (longer if concrete mix is wetter). Place child's hand on concrete and help them press down. You may have to press their hand into it to get a good impression. Write names and dates in the concrete as desired. You can also press shells and other items in the top to make impressions. Let dry for at least 24 hours before removing from tin.