How to Make a Tabletop Zen Garden
- 1). Locate the most suitable location for the Zen garden so you can select the appropriate box size. The container contains loose sand, so you want to pick a spot not frequented by children or pets who can knock it over easily.
- 2). Place the container over the selected spot. Use a cardboard shoe box, a wooden tray, baking tray, an old jewelry box or any square or rectangular container 2 to 4 inches deep that you can rake easily to create a calming pattern. Ensure the inner or outer walls of the box do not have any holes or cracks that would allow the sand to spill out.
- 3). Fill the container two-thirds of the way with fine-textured, granite sand that is white, beige or grey. Distribute the sand evenly over the base of the container.
- 4). Lower four to five rounded rocks or large stones over the sand in the container. Depending on personal preference, use rocks in the same or different colors, grouped together or spaced evenly apart. Avoid adding too many rocks into the container as it gives the miniature garden an overcrowded or cluttered look.
- 5). Place smaller stones and pebbles in the container. Incorporate elements with natural appeal whenever possible, such as stones with natural shine, different textured or porous pebbles or two-faced stones. Press the stones, pebbles and rocks lightly in the soil to keep them in place, for a natural-looking garden.
- 6). Rake the sand in the container using a plastic fork or small comb. Create soft ripples in the sand around the pebbles, stones and rocks to mimic the movement of water as it flows around objects in its path.
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