Helpful Tips
You will find ROCKA DESIGN™ Custom Stone Maker so easy to use. No special tools required. All you will need is a shovel, a rake for prepping the ground, the ROCKA DESIGN™ Custom Stone Maker, concrete mix, (if adding color use a concrete powder or liquid mix), concrete sealer, a hose or bucket for water, and a trowel or garden spade. If premixing the concrete you will need a tub or wheelbarrow, and a shovel for mixing. (Note: When working with concrete it is always best to wear gloves and safety glasses)
What prep work is needed before I begin?
Remove any grass, rocks, etc from the area you want your stones. Then level the dirt to make the surface flat and smooth.
What type of concrete should I use?
You can use regular or fast-setting concrete mix. If you want to make the process fast and easy use the fast-setting concrete mix.
How long do I leave the form on before removing?
Once you add water to the concrete in the form, the form can be removed in approx. 1minute.
How thick is the stone after making it?
The stone will be approx. 2+" thick.
How do I keep grass from growing between the stones?
Add decorative gravel, sand, or whatever you would like to finish your design.
How do I make the surface and sides of the stone smooth or textured?
To smooth the top and sides use a trowel and lightly tap the surface to remove any bubbles and to push down small rocks already in the concrete to create a smooth look. The more you tap the smoother the surface will become. If you find it beginning to dry out just use a spray bottle and spray on some water and continue to tap. If you want texture you can brush a broom across the surface.
Can just one person use this to make stones?
Yes. But if you find it difficult to lift a 50 lb bag of concrete then you will need assistance.
How much concrete is needed to create a large stone?
The form at its largest size will hold two 50 lb bags of concrete, thus creating a 100 lb stone.
How easy is it really to make a stone?
It is extremely easy. Just shape the form into the size stone and style you want, add your concrete and after a couple of seconds remove the form and create another stone. That's it. No back breaking work.
How do I store the form?
ROCKA DESIGN™ is extremely durable and will last for many years but some care should be taken to insure longevity. Always wash the form before storing and do not leave out in extreme heat for long periods of time with concrete on the form, this could cause damage to the form.
Can I premix the concrete>
You can premix your concrete separately then scoop it into the already shaped form. The choice is yours to pre-mix or to mix the concrete directly in the form itself, either way will create beautiful stones.