Step 1
Collect stones that are smooth and have flat surfaces. Look in the woods, near streams or at the beach to find stones that have been smoothed over by nature. Choose stones about the size of the palm of your hand for the central part of the cairn, and smaller and larger ones for the base and top. The total number of stones is your decision.
Step 2
Wash the collection of stones under running water with a scrub brush. Remove all bits of dirt and sand that may adhere to the stones. Allow them to air dry for 24 hours in the sun.
Step 3
Place the largest stone on a flat and level spot in your garden. Pull up the grass a bit to level the surface if you need to. Arrange the stone so the flattest and most attractive side faces up.
Step 4
Stack the stones, one by one, into a pile or small tower. Keep the larger stones toward the bottom of the cairn and place the smaller ones toward the top. Use your own artistic eye to arrange the stones into a pleasing look.
Step 5
Leave the stones to stay in the garden as they are, or stick them together into a more permanent structure by gluing them together with silicone glue.