Stepping stones are fun and easy to make. As a manufacture of stepping stone molds and cements, we get a lot of questions about creating stepping stones. Read on to find the answers to some of our most common questions.
What method should I use to make my stepping stone; direct or indirect?
The method you use is purely a matter of preference. When making a stepping stone using the indirect method you are pouring the concrete mix over the mosaic which is in the bottom of a mold, this method will produce a nice smooth finish. When making a stepping stone using the direct method you will start with a pre-made stone and place the mosaic on the top of the stone. This means you will have to grout the stone to achieve a smooth finish. Some people prefer the direct method because you can see the progression of your mosaic as you go and tweak your design as much as you like. Some people prefer the indirect method because you don’t need to use messy glue and you don’t need to grout afterwards. Experiment with both methods to see which one you like better.
Which cement should I use?
There are many cement products available on the market but very few for the craft and mosaic industry. You can use the chart below to help you determine which cement will be best for your project.
| Jennifer’s Outdoor Cement | Milestones | Common Concrete ie Quikrete |
| FEATURE COMPARISON | ||
| Super strong formula stands-up to the harshest of weather | Mfr does not offer this information | Stands-up to harsh weather |
| With crack reduction | Mfr does not offer this information | Mfr does not offer this information |
| Smooth Finish | Smooth with multiple pinholes | Rough with multiple pinholes – usually contain gravel |
| Porcelain white finish | Dark grey | Dark grey |
| Long-lasting | Mfr does not offer this information | Long-lasting |
| Can be used for many applications stepping stones, benches, birdbaths, etc. | Mfr does not offer this information | Can be used for many applications stepping stones, benches, birdbaths, etc. |
| Superb pigmenting quality | Can be tinted, but tinted color will not be true due to the grey color of the cement | Can be tinted, but tinted color will not be true due to the grey color of the cement |
| No sealant needed | Mfr does not offer this information | Mfr does not offer this information |
| 20lb Box makes two 12″ stone or five 8″ stone | 24lb Box makes three 12″ Stones or six 8″ Stones | Mfr does not offer this information |
| Allow to dry 24 hours | 48 hour drying time | 48-72 Hour Dry time |
| 20 LB Box/10lb Box | 24lb Box/8lb Box/7lb Bag/3.5lb Bag | 40,60 or 80 lb bag |
| MSRP $24.99/$12.55 | MSRP $14.99/5.99/4.99/3.99 | Up to $4 for 80lb bag |
I want more color options, what can I do?
Aside from the multitude of colored glass and ceramic tiles; Diamond Tech also offers ten varieties of cement colorant to add to your cement while mixing (in 3 ounce or 1 pound quantities) and five colors of grout to finish your direct method stepping stone with. You can also use acrylic paints to paint over the cement when dry.
How do I know if I have the right consistency?
You’ll know you have the right consistency when the cement looks like pancake batter and all lumps are gone.
Check out the video below, it will take you through the whole process of making a stepping stone using the indirect method.
Look for Jennifer’s Mosaic Outdoor Cement at Delphi and Hobby Lobby and if you’re looking for some fun projects venture on over to the Diamond Tech Creative Corner. If you have any questions about mosaics or stepping stones, please leave us a note in the comments section. Happy Crafting!
LEARN • CREATE • BE HAPPY! 