How to Make Mud Stepping Stones
- 1). Pour 2 1/2 cups of water into the 5-gallon bucket, then stir in 5 lbs. of mortar mix with a paint stirring stick. After the mortar is completely mixed in, add another 5 lbs. of the mortar until the mixture resembles the consistency of cake batter - smooth and thick. If the mixture is too dry, add more water a few teaspoons at a time. If the mixture is too runny, add more mortar mix, add 1/4 cup at a time.
- 2). Position the plastic planter bottom on a flat surface. You can find the round planter bottoms at the garden sections in most stores, and also at garden supply stores or plant nurseries. They come in a variety of sizes and are usually used under a flower pot to catch the water.
Place old newspapers under the planter to catch any excess mortar mixture that spills. - 3). Fill the planter halfway with the mixture, then shake it to release any bubbles. Pour the rest of the mortar in the planter until it is about 1/8 an inch from the top.
Wait approximately five to 10 minutes, then add decorative gravel to the entire surface of your stepping stones. Shake the planter a few times to help the mortar settle around the stones. You can find decorative gravel at most craft shops and also at pet stores where it is used for fish tanks. Another decorative idea is to allow your children to make hand prints in the stone instead of decorating it with gravel. Wait until the mortar has set for about 30 minutes, then let the child carefully press her hand into the middle of the planter of mortar. Make sure all five fingers are pressed down firmly, then lift her hand out. - 4). Let the stepping stone dry somewhere undisturbed in the planter for at least two days. To remove it from the planter, turn it upside down over a thick towel and gently tap on the back until the stone is released. You can also use a knife to cut the plastic away from the stones.
Once all of your stones are released you can place them around your yard or garden to form a walkway that will help keep all your guests from stepping in mud.
Source...