Hello, Salut, Privet!

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Hello! Have you found a painted stone? Great! This page explains everything important quickly and easily. We are a community that spreads joy through creative stones. Read on to understand what it is and how you can join in.

Table of Contents:

What is a Kaminky?
Where does the idea come from?
What should you do with the stone?
How can you become part of the community?
What materials do you need?
Quick guide to making your own

What is a Kaminky?

A Kaminky (Czech for "little stones") is a smooth pebble that has been painted by someone. Often with motifs like animals, flowers, quotes, or smileys. On the back, there's usually a zip code, a date, or a reference to a Facebook group. It's not an ordinary stone – it's a "wandering stone" meant to bring joy! You can find them in parks, by rivers, or in cities. The purpose: To create a chain of positive surprises, without selling anything.

Where does the idea come from?

The tradition comes from the USA: In 2015, Megan Murphy started the "Kindness Rocks Project" to provide comfort after a loss by hiding stones with messages.
The trend came to Europe via social media and boomed in the Czech Republic from 2016/2017, especially in border regions to Austria. During the pandemic, it became even more popular as a safe outdoor hobby.
Today, there are parallels to old folk traditions, but it's modern and global – stones even travel internationally!

What should you do with the stone?

1. Be happy and photograph it: Take a photo of the stone and the location where you found it.
2. Share your find: Post the photo in the specified Facebook group (e.g., "Kaminky").
   Use hashtags like #Kaminky and the zip code. This way, the creator will find out about it!
3. Pass it on: Don't keep it – place it in a new, public spot (e.g., on a bench or a hiking trail). Let the journey continue!
4. Optional: If there's a code or QR code on it, scan or log it online to track the route.

How can you become part of the community?

Anyone can join! It's simple and fun:

1. Start at home: Collect stones and paint your own.
2. Join online: Join Facebook groups like "Kaminky"
3. Attend events: Look in the groups for local meetups in the Czech Republic (e.g., Prague, Brno) – workshops, exchange events, or painting sessions in parks.
4. Use social media: Share your creations on Instagram (#rockpainting) or X (#paintedstones).
5. Follow the rules: Be environmentally friendly (no stones from protected areas), respectful, and ad-free.

What materials do you need?

You don't need much – a starter set costs 10–20 €:

1. Stones: Smooth pebbles (5–10 cm) from rivers or gardens (not from protected areas!).
2. Paints: Acrylic paints or waterproof markers (e.g., Posca pens).
3. Tools: Brushes, sponges, pencil for sketching.
4. Protection: Clear varnish for sealing (against weather).
5. Extras: Glitter, glue, or stencils for cool effects.

Quick guide to making your own

1. Wash and dry the stone.
2. Sketch a design.
3. Paint with colors – let layers dry.
4. Label the back (zip code, group, "Take me with you!").
5. Varnish and dry for 24 hours.
6. Hide it!