Share the Love With DIY Random Acts of Kindness Rocks

These kindness rocks may perk people up when they need it the most. Kelly Ladd

Nothing warms your heart as much as giving. It spreads over you like a cozy blanket. Here's an idea for sending love into the universe without spending a lot of money; all you need is a little creativity and some paint.

Decorate rocks with positive, uplifting messages and place them in random places. Imagine the unexpected smile the rocks will bring to others who find them. And the best part about them is how easy they are to create. Here's how:


The materials needed for random act of kindness rocks
Smooth river rocks will be the canvas for your messages. Kelly Ladd
  • Smooth river rocks (you can buy these at your local hardware store or find them in a riverbed near your house)
  • Black paint
  • White paint pen (I used an oil-based pen)
  • Foam brush
  • Thin paint brush
  • Multiple colors of craft paint

Here's how you do it

1. Paint your river rocks black. Let dry.

2. With your white paint pen (or a brush with white paint on it if you have a steady hand), write a positive message on your rock.

Writing an inspirational message on a rock
A white paint pen on a black-painted rock makes your message pop. Kelly Ladd

3. Create colorful designs by creating dots with your thin paint brush all over your rock and around the message. Let dry.

Bright colors will make your random act of kindness rocks even more eye-catching.
Bright colors will make your random act of kindness rocks even more eye-catching. Kelly Ladd

4. Leave the rocks in random places around your favorite park, nature trail or even on the doormat of a neighbor.

A kindness rock on a park bench
Leaving your kindness rock in various locations means their impact will truly be random. Kelly Ladd