3

I'm an electronics hobbyist. I'd like to put a Wi-Fi module in my garden. It would be awesome if it would be possible to put that electronics into a stone or something similar. It doesn't need to be able to open.

Things I considered:

1. There's a rock for hiding keys available on the market: http://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/jrsAAOSwPh5ZIqe7/s-l1600.jpg

The seller says that it's made of synthetic resin. But I'm not sure how to make that in home conditions? This specific product is too small. I'd require something a little bit bigger.

2.

You might just take a watertight hobby box and an adhesive, perhaps like the foam used by pond hobbyists, and 'glue' rocks over the box. – user2448131

IMHO that wouldn't be ideal enough? I mean you could easily see that it's just a bunch of stones that are glued, right? I think I'm looking for something more plain/consistent.

The idea is good in general but this time I'm looking for something that would cover it from every angle. Such a whim.

So, how to make such a thing like the box for hiding a key or something similar easily at home/garage workshop conditions?

Improve this question
4
  • Mold making kits are available in most art supply stores. Look up smooth on products smooth-on.com.
    – John Vukelic
    Commented Jul 15, 2017 at 14:35
  • I am not tech savvy. Can you do a thin layer of concrete & have it operate? You can carve styrofoam to shape, and then cover it with concrete and then paint it & have it look very realistic. I'd personally think you would need to make your rock with a compartment & place the electronics into something waterproof that sits under the rock. But the rock making portion isn't hard. It can easily be done by a novice with patience.
    – threetimes
    Commented Jul 16, 2017 at 2:41
  • Resin plus stone dust can make fake rocks, but stone dust isn't easy to obtain in quantity. Hollowing out a (fairly soft) rock with power tools might be a better option. Another source of bits is garden lighting made to look like rocks.
    – Chris H
    Commented Jul 17, 2017 at 13:42
  • I like the idea, but don't forget to allow some way for the electronics to cool. A wifi access point sealed inside something air tight, and with some thermal insulation, such as you're considering, will overheat and either "age" a lot faster than normal, or just plain die. The antenna could be another problem.
    – user2268
    Commented Jul 19, 2017 at 3:39

2 Answers 2

Reset to default
2

What about Feather Rock? That is lightweight and easy to alter. Or check out some of the hidden outdoor speaker ideas and simply convert them for your project.

Improve this answer
2
  • I think Feather Rock is a brand yes? Pumice would be the generic term for what you are suggesting.
    – Matt
    Commented Jul 19, 2017 at 14:58
  • Not sure if it is a brand or not. Just know that is what I have heard it called everywhere. Sorry!
    – DCook
    Commented Jul 19, 2017 at 15:45
0

Marble and sandstone are two soft natural stone (like) materials. Both can be easily drilled and filed to create a hidden compartment or pocket. The pocket can then be closed and even made water resistant by molding a hatch cover from any number of materials available at lowes or home depot.

A natural stone will not cause scrutiny from a discerning eye.

Improve this answer

You must log in to answer this question.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged .