DIY rock pics and questions

[clossboss]

i got all the supplies from lowes today to start my DIY rock for Dobby's 55 gallon(which he isnt in yet). this is a pic of what it looks like after carving edges, gluing, and sticking toothpicks in:

tomorrow im going to start grouting. one question i have so far is that after i get all my grout layers down, and then seal the grout i plan on using textured spray paint on top for finishing touch, do i need to get some sort of sealer to go on after i spraypaint? if so which kind

ill keep this thread updated with pics as i finish the steps....hopefully this one turns out well so i can make another for Dude's tank. any opinions or input appreciated. Thanks

 

[spikeithard]

I personally am using mod podge. its a clear non toxic sealer.

here is a great video for you to learn from all the steps

http://www.lizard-landscapes.com/Fake-rock-wall-beginner-video.html

 

[clossboss]

so do i not need to seal the grout before i spray paint? or should i seal grout then paint then reseal

 

[spikeithard]

dont think so. you can even mix the acrylic paint IN with the grout. then cover it with mod podge

 

[clossboss]

Is spraypaint ok? Sorry i dont kno much about this kind of stuff

 

[spikeithard]

Just watch the video I linked up above

 

[clossboss]

well i started making another rock for Dudes tank. and i finished painting Dobby's rock so i figured i would update this post with some pics

here is Dobby's rock for my 55 gallon tank he will eventually move into, just needs a few more coats of sealer:

here is Dude's rock after 1 layer of grout:

 

[spikeithard]

my non sanded grout doesnt look like that after one coat? what kind did you use? and what color?

 

[clossboss]

the brand is UGL...its white...maybe i used the wrong stuff? originally i bought the premixed grout for the first rock, but i bought the powdered stuff that u mix with water for the 2nd one...

does spraypaint need to be sealed? i bought some tile grout penetrating sealer but when i put it on, it seems like it doesnt soak in or anything, it just sits on top of the paint and i cant tell if its working or not and the bottle says to wipe off any access that is still on the surface after 3 to 5 minutes of sitting

 

[spikeithard]

the brand is UGL...its white...maybe i used the wrong stuff? originally i bought the premixed grout for the first rock, but i bought the powdered stuff that u mix with water for the 2nd one...

does spraypaint need to be sealed? i bought some tile grout penetrating sealer but when i put it on, it seems like it doesnt soak in or anything, it just sits on top of the paint and i cant tell if its working or not and the bottle says to wipe off any access that is still on the surface after 3 to 5 minutes of sitting

It looks really thick for just only one coat!

I am going to seal everything (grout and paint) with mod podge. Its non toxic.

 

[clossboss]

where can i get mod podge and how much is it? i cant find it on lowes website or anything..

edit: answered my own question, jo ann fabrics!

 

[Claudiusx]

I got mod podge at walmart, but it looks like you already got some.

Yes, the spraypaint needs to be sealed. The sealant should be the last layer of anything! To seal it.. :mrgreen:

Just grout it, put your paint on, then put the sealant on.

-Brandon

 

[clossboss]

where can i get the acrylic paint to mix with water in a spray bottle like in the video?
will this work?
http://www.joann.com/joann/catalog/productdetail.jsp?pageName=search&flag=true&PRODID=prd11432

 

[Claudiusx]

Walmart or any store that sells crafts.

-Brandon

 

[clossboss]

thanks, going to wal mart now