Have you heard of the new painted rock finding trend that is sweeping the country called Kindness Rocks, also know as Rainbow Rocks? I first heard about this my daughter was telling me it was all the rage in California. I was thrilled when we hunted down several groups spearheading in Utah too. I'm always on the hunt for creative ways to entertain families without spending much money. And, one that uses creativity designed to lift another is even better.
The Kindness Project was created as a way to complete a simple act of kindness. It's making a big impact in communities across the country. Rock painting groups are brightening the days of strangers one colorful rock at a time.
Happiness comes when you find your soulmate, lost money, or even your lost car keys. But finding a rock? How is that possibly going to make you happy? No, I don't mean a rock of the big sparkly variety.
It reminds me of the pet rocks of the '70's only these made at home rocks take little effort and are designed with inspiring quotes or pictures to make someone else's day too. Don't we all love hunting for something special and being a part of something that makes others smile?
Here's how this new painting, hiding and finding works:
It's kind of like an Easter egg hunt, except it's not an egg you're searching for and it doesn't have to be Easter. Any day will do. The goal is to create a rock that inspires inspiration and lifts a stranger. The rocks are usually left in public places like parks,
STEP #1 – You'll Need Rocks
Flat smooth river type rocks work best. I find mine on my morning walk, you could also check your local craft store or garden center as they typically sell smooth river stones. The rocks shouldn't be too small, around 3 to 4 inches is best.
STEP #2 – Prepare the Rocks
Spray paint them with non-toxic spray paint of any color or clear if you like. This will prepare the rock surface for your artwork/writing and seal the rock so your paint pens will last longer
STEP #3 – Decorate the Rocks
Oil Based Sharpie Paint Pens work best for decorating, they are easy to work with, and last a long time. I also have found that Prismacolor Premier non toxic dual tip markers work best for creative writing. You can find a variety of packages on Amazon for as little as $8. Or, check your local craft store and make sure to bust out those Craft Store Coupons.
STEP #4 Seal the Rocks
To protect your artwork from the elements and the paint from altering the environment brush on Modge Podge outdoor sealant works great!
You may want to visit this post on Hello Wonderful for 10 ideas on inspiring quotes for your Kindness Rocks to get your started.
STEP #5 Join a Utah Rock Painting Facebook Group
And finally, you'll need to make sure to join one of the Facebook groups in your area. The groups allow people people to share their finds, give hints where their rocks are, painting ideas and more. Here's a few we found.
WJ Rocks (West Jordan)
Kindness Rocks – Summit, Wasatch & Morgan Counties, Utah
I'm sure there are many more. You'll want to search your area to find them close to you, and please leave a comment with any others and we'll add them to the list.
You can also visit an interactive map on the Kindness Rocks website and list the location of your hidden rock. Remember to always be respectful of other people's property when placing or hunting for rocks. Dropping 1 rock with encouraging words on it in a public place can be inspirational, dropping hundreds could undo any good intentions you have created.
Want more news about activities going on in Utah?
KATIE PARRY says
June 3, 2020 at 4:57 pmHello!
Please add our rock painting, hiding, group Leaver-Rite Rock out of Lehi Utah.
Thank you!
Pedantic Jerk says
December 26, 2017 at 3:51 pmI feel the need to point out that it is called Mod Podge, not Modge Podge.
My daughter found one today at the Megaplex in Lehi, which is what lead me here.