Paving stones come in different shapes, sizes and colors.
Paving stones come in various sizes, colors and shapes. Home-supply, hardware and garden stores sell them individually at a wide range of prices. But if you have leftover stones from a previous project lying around and want to create a lasting keepsake for your home or garden, all you need now are the right supplies and some time.
Mosaic
Mosaic designs can be made with glass, beads, shells and other items.
Using bits of glass, seashells or beads -- three things that are easy to find -- turns a plain paving stone into a work of mosaic art, with a little glue and sanded grout. Display your own mosaic design on a wall, use it as a trivet or decorative stepping stone in your garden, or put it behind a sink to function as a back splash. You can personalize it by writing a loved one's name or a special message with the materials.
Tabletop
Stone pavers must be flat to be used as a tabletop.
A paving stone coffee or dining table makes a durable, weather-resistant addition to a patio or yard. It can complement a stone style already in a home, or it can be decorated with a mosaic, permanent paints or stencils for a new look. Top a wrought iron or heavy hardwood base from an existing table with your choice of flat stone. Omi Stonework, a New York-based stone installer, suggests using stone for matching end tables, too.
Snowman
Make a snowman with all-weather paint, buttons, glue, scarf and hat. This craft requires a keyhole-shaped paving stone, according to the December/January 2009 issue of "Family Fun" magazine, which recommends using orange molding clay to fashion a nose and superglue to attach it to the snowman. If you display your snowman indoors, glue a piece of felt to the bottom of the stone to protect floors.
Candle
This project -- explained at the website Craftbits -- requires a stone with cut-outs. Even a plain brick with a few holes will do. You also need a non-drying modeling clay to prevent leakage; a piece of cardboard for a base; and basic candle making supplies, including wicks and candle wax. Scenting the wax with a drop of lavender or other essential oil is optional. After pouring and cooling the wax, you can remove the cardboard and molding clay.
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