Crafting Kindness

by Melanie Gasmen-Fleck

Want to spread a little sunshine? Make your own kindness rocks with this creative DIY featured in our Maya Angelou issue. But first: What is a kindness rock? A kindness rock helps encourage kindness and compassion through its uplifting decoration or painted-on message. For more ideas on how to spread kindness, build an inspiration garden, or join the kindness movement, check out The Kindness Rocks Project. 

SUPPLIES

acrylic paint, assorted colors

paintbrush

clear sealant (such as Mod Podge)

permanent marker

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1 

Outside, gather several small, flat rocks. The rocks can be any size, but it’s a good idea to find rocks that can fit in the palm of your hand. Once you’ve gathered as many rocks as you’d like to paint, wash and dry them completely. Cover your work surface—and your clothes!—then gather your supplies. It’s time to start painting!

Step 2 

Paint one side of your rock any way you’d like. You might create designs and patterns or leave space to write a kind message with a permanent marker after the paint has dried. Once you’ve finished one side, be sure to let it dry before flipping the rock to paint the other side. You may need to repeat this process one or two more times to cover the rock. Once all the paint has dried, protect your artwork by adding a clear coat of sealant.

Step 3

Think of a few kind things you can do to spread kindness to your family, class, or community. A simple act of kindness can brighten someone’s day. Maybe you can make your brother’s bed or read a book to your sister. Maybe you can draw a picture for a friend or wave to a police officer. When you complete an act of kindness, leave one of your kindness rocks for that person to find. You can even leave your kindness rocks around your community. They are bound to brighten anyone’s day!

 

We wanna see your rocks. Snap a pic and tag us @bravery_mag!