Directions Clean and dry off the stones. Mix the paints and pour them into paper cups or muffin pans. If you are using tube paints, squeeze a little onto a plastic plate. Have your child paint the rocks in sequence—while the paint on one stone is drying, apply paint to the next stone. Continue until all the stones are colored and dry. Add lines and other designs with the pens. Use the water in the jar to wipe off mistakes and to clean brushes. Painted stones can be used as paper weights or ornaments.