Mosaic Stepping Stones are a fun and beautiful project that virtually anyone can easily master!

There are two different ways to construct a concrete stepping stone: The Direct method where your tiles are layed directly on top of your cement and then grouted. The second way is the Indirect method : Your stained glass or tiles are layed face down into a mold and then concrete is poured on top into the mold. This particular guide is for the indirect method which can be advantageous if you want a smooth or very flat surface that is somewhat consistent on the face of your stepping stone or surface that you are working on.

Supplies you will need will be: a board to lay your pattern on, clear contact paper, tape, stained glass or tiles of your choice, tile nippers, mold, concrete release such as Crete-lease, tape, concrete, exacto knife, & gloves to mix the concrete are handy too!

Make a copy of your pattern and lay it out on your wooden board so it FACES DOWN on your board .( The design will be facing down into the mold so when you unmold your stone it will be the correct way). Make an outline on the side you are looking at so you can see the patterns backside to adhere your tile to.  Place a piece of clear contact paper on top of your pattern with the STICKY SIDE UP. Tape each corner to the board so that it stays down when you are adhering your tiles to the pattern. Lay your mosaic tiles within your pattern lines and leave a small amount of space between each piece so grout can go between to give tiles something to adhere to. Spray your mold with release agent. Next, with an exacto knife carefully cut your finished design at the edges where the contact paper and the glass meet and lay into your mold. (Be sure that the contact paper is on the bottom touching the mold and tile is on top side) Gently start putting your concrete into mold as not to disturb the placement of your pattern.

Tip: Follow your concrete mfrs directions for time for concrete to set up. Do NOT be in a hurry. It might be the next day until your stepping stone is ready to unmold!

Tip: Be sure not to make your pattern bigger than your mold. Allow at least a half an inch on the edges.

Tip: Before you mix your concrete be sure to leave out a small amount of dry mix for later so you can grout any pin holes that you might have missed after your stone is out of the mold.

Tip: Start small with simple design and then move to more detailed project once you feel more confident.

What a beautiful way to personalize your crafts and make them last!  Have fun!