For many people, a pet is a cherished member of the family. When a pet becomes ill and passes on, it is an emotional loss. Many pet lovers pay tribute to their animal with a suitable memorial that can be placed in the house, in the yard or in a pet cemetery. This includes making your own pet memorial stone.
Things You'll Need
- Stepping-stone mold
- Cement
- Water
- Sand
- Tinting pigments
- Trowel
- Putty knife
- Laminated pet photo
- Pet toy
- Paint
- Clear finish
Instructions
Creating A Memorial Stone
Develop a plan and create a paper "blueprint" of the finished design. This could include where to place the pet's name, photo and favorite toy. Laminate the photo.
Determine the materials that will be needed. If you include a photo and toy, then this should be a memorial stone that is kept indoors.
Visit a home center and crafts center for the supplies that are needed. This includes a stepping-stone mold, quick-setting cement, coloring to tint the cement and any tools needed to complete your design.
Mix the appropriate amount of cement with water and pour the mixture into the mold. During the mixing, add additional sand, if needed, and coloring to tint the cement, if desired. It could take 10 or more minutes for the mixture to begin to set, depending on the humidity and the kind of cement used.
Sprinkle sand on the surface if you prefer a textured look. Otherwise, smooth the surface with a trowel. Create any swirls and designs with a putty knife.
Add the pet's picture and toy. They will adhere to the stone as the cement hardens. Let the mixture harden and dry for several days.
Add the pet's name and any other information with paint and let the paint dry. You might need to touch up the paint in a day or two.
Add the finishing step of covering the cement (but not the toy or photo) with a protective coating such as polyurethane.