Create Beautiful Sea Shell Projects

Display Shells in a Variety of Unique and Creative Ways

Jul 18, 2009 Beverly Hill

Gathering sea shells is a fun activity, but what is the best way to put them to use after they've been collected?

Unsure about what to do with that vast collection of seashells gathered from vacations past? Don't toss them out. Instead, why not turn them into a variety of fun projects and display them proudly for everyone to enjoy?

Decorating With Sea Shells

An easy project that incorporates shells into paving or stepping stone molds to create a unique foot path. An excellent shell to use for this project is large, flat scallop shells. Once concrete has been poured into the mold and as it begins to become tacky, carefully press the scallop shells gently into the mixture with the ridge side facing up. Push the shell in just enough so that the concrete supports the underside of the shell. Try to position the shells so that the entire edge of the scallop shell is displayed.

Fragile shells, sand dollars and starfish can be showcased beautifully in shadow boxes. Shadow boxes are perfectly designed to protect delicate items such as these while being displayed. There are several creative ways to design a unique background for displaying these shells.

This first example utilizes spray adhesive that is applied over the entire backboard of the shadowbox. Next, sprinkle a thin layer of sand so that it completely covers the glue. Apply more spray adhesive and sand, varying the depth and shape in order to create a windswept illusion. Allow the spray glue to dry and then, using hot glue, attach a few shells in various locations on the sand, let dry and display.

A second method uses old netting as a backdrop and is just as easy. Using a hot glue gun, spot glue the netting to the backdrop. Then finish by gluing several shells onto the netting and allow everything to dry before choosing a spot to hang and display.

Create a decorative flower vase by placing several large shells against the inside of a clear glass vase and fill it with sand. Add more shells at different levels while the vase is being filled. When the vase is almost full, insert a few artificial flowers and top off the vase with a small amount of sand. Beautiful and functional.

More Shell Craft Ideas

Still have left over shells? There are numerous ways to show off those shells. Use them to decorate the base of a lamp, create a designer jewelry box, build a whimsical wind chime or even design a unique toad house. Bring home the natural beauty of the sea today.

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Scallop Shells