Build an artificial rock structure using lath and chicken wire.
Build an artificial rock structure by first designing and building individual homemade rock forms. The forms are then placed on top of one another, side-by-side or in a grouping to create the structure design. The decision to bolt the artificial rocks together or use mortar must be made prior to rock construction. The simplest way to secure the artificial rock together is with mortar. The bolts must be placed where needed within each form prior to placing the concrete patch mixture over the surface.
Instructions
1. Measure, mark and cut pieces of lath as follows: two 12-inch lengths, two 9-inch lengths, two 10-inch lengths, one 14-inch length and one 16-inch length. Nail the pieces together to make a lopsided rectangle that determines the shape of each artificial rock. Repeat to make as many artificial rocks as needed.
2. Cut five pieces of chicken wire 14-by-18-inches. Staple one section of cut chicken wire to five sides of the lopsided cube. Bend, push and pull the chicken wire to create unusual shapes in each panel.
3. Flip the cube so the open end is accessible. Crumple newspaper and cover the inside of the chicken wire with it. Secure the crumpled newspaper in place with duct tape; the newspaper on the five inner surfaces helps to hold the concrete-patch mixture in place.
4. Mix the concrete-patch mixture in the plastic bucket. Follow the instructions for mixing on the package. Add two to three cups or handfuls of chopped fiberglass strands to the mixture. Stir the mixture until evenly mixed, which takes about two to three minutes.
5. Flip the cube so the opening is on the bottom of the rock. Put on the rubber gloves.
6. Place a handful of the concrete-patch mixture on the surface of the artificial rock. Spread the mixture over the chicken wire until it is 1/2-inch to 1-inch thick. Repeat the process until the surface is entirely covered.
7. Smooth the surface with a cement trowel. Add texture to the rock surface with a wire brush. Tap the surface with the bristles to create the texture. Allow 12 to 24 hours for the artificial rock to dry. Paint and splatter with spray paint as desired to give the artificial rocks realistic colors.
8. Stack the rocks in the desired location to make sure they fit together in the desired design. Remove the upper layers making sure to place them in the proper order for assemblage.
9. Mix the mortar according to the instructions on the package. Apply mortar between the bottom layer of artificial rocks. Smooth the mortar between the rocks with your fingers. Apply mortar between the first and second layer and on the edges of the artificial rocks. Repeat the process until the structure is complete. Hide exposed bolt with mortar.
