A Quick Set of Helpful Hints and Tips

This use to be written on the announcement at the top of the Taff Rocks Group page.

HERE ARE SOME HELPFUL HINTS AND TIPS

• BEST PAINTS TO USE: Acrylics are top every time! Watercolour paints and poster paints won't last. 
• WHAT ABOUT PENS: Sharpies and permanent marker pens are ideal, you can also use Acrylic paint pens. 
• SEALING YOUR STONE: You should seal your stone before you set it free! Sealing them helps to preserve the work you have done and helps it last. WHAT TO SEAL IT WITH: You can use a spray lacquer, but this can work out expensive so check the bargain stores for yacht varnish or clear exterior varnish. 
• WHERE TO SOURCE ROCKS: Do not take rocks from beaches and rivers, you can purchase rocks from places such as B&Q, Garden Centres, Amazon, Trago Mills, Wilkinsons, Builders Merchants etc. Sandstone rocks do not work well with Sharpies also, they will need a base coat. 
• WHERE TO SOURCE PAINTS AND PENS: This can be an expensive hobby, so shop around. Check out the pound shops, Wilkinsons, eBay, Amazon, Home Bargains, B&M, supermarkets, Hobbycraft etc 
• IF THE ROCK IS TOO ROUGH TO DECORATE, don't waste it. Paint an undercoat on it first to fill in any cracks and smooth over bumps. 
• WHERE TO SOURCE THE VARNISH / SEALANT: Spray sealant can work out expensive, but if this is the way to go for you, try Halfords, The Whatt? Shop, Trago Mills, etc. The varnish can also be found in these places but you can also find this in the likes of the pound shops, B&M, Home Bargains and other hardware stores. 
• WHERE TO SOURCE AN UNDERCOAT FOR YOUR ROCKS: You can use good old white paint or call into the hardware store and purchase tester posts of pale coloured matt finishes, silks or exterior paints. Or you can purchase a tub of canvass primer from a hobby shop. 
• WHERE TO HIDE YOUR STONES: Always ensure you hide your stone(s) with other peoples safety in mind. Hiding them up a tree or on cliff edges is never a good idea! Safety is paramount - Hiders and Seekers alike. Please read the rules on environmental impacts. 
• WARNING! Rock painting, hiding, and finding can be addictive and not hazardous to your health