Embossed Stepping Stones

This technique can be used to make stepping stones up to 12 inches in diameter and 2 inches thick.

Wet masonry mix is extremely caustic, so protect your hands with rubber gloves. Plan to use about 1 gallon of ready-mix for each 12-inch stone. For many stones, it's often cheaper to use this recipe: 3 parts masonry sand, 1 part Portland cement type 1, and approximately 1 part water. Blend dry ingredients thoroughly until mixture is one color. Make a well in the center of dry mixture. Pour water in well; mix until it is the consistency of custard. Use immediately.

• Plastic dishpan or storage container
• Builder's sand
• Trowel
• Masonry mix (see notes above)
• Objects to embed in the concrete
• Rubber gloves