Transforming your beachy bounty into unique creations is just a shell of a good idea! Whether you’re spending hours soaking up the sun or making the coast your permanent residence, collecting seashells is an inevitable part of the experience. Before you know it, your stash will be overflowing with treasures from the tide.
But fear not, for I have conjured up 37 innovative DIY seashell craft ideas to keep you engaged, grant you mementos of your beachy adventures, and prevent your collection from becoming too shell-shocked.
Easy Marbled Seashell Art
There’s something captivating about marbled artwork that I find myself drawn to. The harmony of peacefulness and chaos that it embodies is truly unique. When it comes to marble painting, you have the freedom to experiment with various color combinations and techniques, making each piece a one-of-a-kind creation.
Before diving into the painting process, it’s essential to gather the necessary materials. Start by selecting your shells of choice.
Then, acquire some neon food coloring to add an extra pop of color, bamboo skewers to mix the hues, and a few paper napkins to handle any spills that may occur during the creative process.
Santa Seashell Ornaments
Imagine a jolly old elf trading in his snowy workshop for a sun-kissed beachside lair. It’s time to give Santa a coastal makeover! For this fun DIY project, we’re swapping out snowflakes for seashells and crafting seashell Santa ornaments to deck the halls of your holiday tree. To get started, gather your artistic arsenal: a palette of paints in red, black, green, and peach hues, plus a few trusty brushes.
You’ll also need some beachy embellishments – think scallop shells, mini pom poms, and twine for hanging those seashells from. With all your supplies at the ready, it’s time to unleash your creativity and bring this coastal Santa charm to life.
Seashell Candles
Imagine the romance of candlelight amplified by the soothing sound of the ocean. Seashell candles are a game-changer for any beach-inspired gathering or thoughtful gift. The best part? They’re surprisingly easy and budget-friendly to make. Simply head to your local dollar store, gather the necessary supplies, and get creative. For an added touch, consider infusing your candles with the subtle aroma of essential oils. Want to take your candle-making skills to the next level?
Learn how to craft scented candles for a truly unique experience.
Decoupage Shell Dish
With their natural curvature, seashells make ideal trinket dishes or flat bowls. If you’re an artistic genius looking for a creative outlet, consider embellishing these shells with decoupage art. To get started, gather your favorite printed paper or colored tissue paper, as well as a bottle of mod podge and some masking tape. First, ensure your shells are squeaky clean and grease-free by washing them thoroughly.
Once they’re ready, you can unleash your creativity and decoupage the shells with any design that strikes your fancy!
How To Paint Seashells
While many may be familiar with painting seashells, taking it up a notch by using nail polish adds an exciting twist. This low-key yet engaging DIY project is ideal for relaxing afternoons when creativity strikes. Since you likely have some nail polish lying around, it’s easily accessible. By incorporating your newly painted shells into a bowl of potpourri or a decorative trinket dish, you can instantly elevate the space and add a touch of personal flair.
Map Seashell Gift
I have a fascination with maps – vintage ones in particular are an ideal material for crafting projects. The unique character they bring to a project is unparalleled. Imagine taking your favorite world map and decoupaging it onto a seashell. Are you as excited as I am? With the map at hand, don’t stop there. Consider elevating the shell’s aesthetic by applying gold leaf paint along its edges. This added touch will undoubtedly make for a stunning piece.
DIY Seashell Art
As you’ve already explored the world of seashell painting, why not repurpose those beautiful shells into a new creative project? Take out your stash of painted shells and let’s get started. You can also purchase a shadow box frame to display your finished piece. This time around, we’ll be crafting a heart-shaped design. Feel free to add some decorative flair to the frame and glass as well – a few seashells placed strategically along the rim could add a charming touch.
Glam Clam or Oyster Shell Christmas Ornament
Building on the festive spirit of your seashell ornament collection, why not expand it with a fresh batch of oyster shells? This time around, you can give Santa Claus some company by crafting new ornaments featuring his jolly friends. Simply gather your paint supplies and get creative! To add an extra layer of coastal charm, consider stringing the ornaments together using beaded twine. You can find beads in a variety of colors and textures to match your beach-inspired aesthetic.
Don’t stop there – feel free to incorporate other beachy embellishments and danglers to give your collection some added flair!
Seashell Ornament
I’m guessing those oyster shell ornaments you created recently were an absolute triumph! If, like me, you’re already craving the next crafting project, I’m here to help you get started again. This time, why not try using regular scallop shells instead? You can still display them beautifully on beaded string if that’s your style. To take things up a notch, how about adding some extra sparkle to these shells?
Simply mix glitter into your paint and choose from a range of metallic or vibrant colors to create a truly dazzling effect.
Scallop Trinket Dish
When it comes to creating unique and functional decorative pieces, scallop shells are an excellent choice. This particular shell boasts a stunning copped coating that adds a touch of elegance to its already bright and bold appearance. To create a truly special piece, consider combining multiple shells into a three-piece set and adding silver and gold painted accents for added visual interest.
Not only can these bowls and trinket dishes be used to store small items like accessories, keys, or loose change around the house, but they also make thoughtful gifts for friends and loved ones. For those looking to add an extra layer of creativity, consider decoupaging the shells with mod podge from your craft supplies, allowing you to customize the design to suit your personal style.
Sand Dollar Garland
Sand dollars are more than just beach treasures – they’re living creatures that burrow into sediment and are related to sea urchins and starfish. When a sand dollar passes away, its shell will turn white, leaving behind the remains of what once was. Now, let’s shift gears from science to creativity! Crafting with sand dollars is a fun way to get artsy. While we’re not working with live specimens in this garland project, you can still pick up artificial ones used for crafting purposes here.
DIY Seashell Ornaments
Let’s dive back into the world of seashell ornaments! Who says they have to be just for grandmas? Get your kids involved and make some memories. Instead of using traditional beaded twine, why not try something new like a thin ribbon? This adds a touch of elegance to your handmade ornaments. To attach the shell to the ribbon, simply drill a small hole at the top of the shell and thread the ribbon through it. And because we’re not done yet, let’s add some texture with a little decoupage magic.
Grab that bottle of Mod Podge again (it might be time to stock up!) and get creative. With these simple steps, you’ll have beautiful, one-of-a-kind ornaments in no time.
Resin Door Knobs
There’s something special about crafting with DIY resin projects. Not only do they provide a way to preserve items, but they can also be used to create unique objects like doorknobs. The possibilities are endless! When working with resin, it’s all about the details. Start by selecting a silicone mold and deciding what you want to add inside. Want to give your project some flair?
Add a few drops of food dye for color, sprinkle on some glitter for sparkle, or incorporate natural elements like seashells. You can press these shells into the resin as it sets, adding a touch of the beach to your creation. Feel free to get creative and add other embellishments like sand dollars or starfish.
Beach Seashell Necklace
Indulge in the nostalgia of beachy vibes with a charming seashell necklace. Yes, it’s true – you’ve always had a soft spot for these ocean-inspired accessories, but perhaps thought they were too whimsical for your taste. However, as we grow older, our appreciation for unique expressions of personal style often matures. So, why not create a beautiful piece for yourself? Start by selecting special seashells in various shapes and sizes to serve as the focal point.
Next, choose a sturdy yet soft cotton string to act as the foundation of your necklace. To add some visual interest, thread a few beads onto the cord before securing it with a knot. This delightful DIY project is an excellent activity for teenagers looking to unleash their creativity and make something truly special.
Handprint Sand Clay Keepsake
Transforming memories of a beach vacation into beautiful keepsakes is easier than you think! Simply combine sand from your favorite coastal spot with flour, salt, and water to create a unique sand dough. The key is to follow a tried-and-true recipe and mix the ingredients with precision. While collecting seashells during your visit, be sure to stash a few aside for decorative purposes.
Once you’ve created your masterpiece, secure those shells in place with a dab of glue, then seal it all with a coat of mod podge for added protection and shine.
Seashell Fish In Aquarium
Create a stunning seashell craft with your little ones and adorn the nursery with it! This project is incredibly easy, requiring minimal materials you likely already have at home. To get started, grab some paper plates – if you don’t have them, pick some up. You’ll also need googly eyes to add an extra touch of whimsy. Before diving in, prepare your workspace by laying down newspaper to protect against paint spills and having some paper napkins on hand.
If you’re looking for more fun DIY ideas with kids, be sure to check out our fish craft project using popsicle sticks – a great activity for the whole family!
DIY Seashell Wreath
There’s something undeniably charming about a seashell wreath, especially when it adorns your front door or porch during the warmest months of the year. It’s as if you’re bringing the beach to your doorstep, encapsulating the essence of summer in one beautiful piece. The phrase ‘sun, sand, and sea’ takes on new meaning with this very wreath, don’t you think?
To create this coastal delight, simply acquire a wreath form from the preferred supplier and get ready to glue those seashells into place using a trusty hot glue gun. Why not involve the kids in this project as well? Not only will it provide an entertaining bonding experience, but you’ll also reap the benefits of free labor! For more inspiring DIY summer wreath ideas, take a look at these fantastic examples.
Seashell Flower Garden
As I ponder seashells, the beach and summer inevitably come to mind. However, it’s not just the ocean that evokes a sense of warmth and vibrancy – flowers also bring to mind memories of sunny days. Why not combine these two elements, blending the serenity of the sea with the joy of springtime blooms? We’ll be using seashells, paint, and tack-its to recreate this picturesque scene on a canvas board or white cardstock. Before we dive in, make sure you have all the necessary materials ready to go.
Seashell Magnet
For those looking to declutter their seashell collection, repurposing them as magnets is a creative solution. While there’s only so much space on display for shells, magnets offer an alternative means of showcasing your oceanic treasures.
By transforming your seashells into magnets, you can easily affix them to the refrigerator or other metal surfaces, ensuring they remain prominently displayed.
To achieve this, you can opt for a more hands-on approach by pressing magnets into clay and then attaching them to the shells’ backs. Alternatively, a simple application of gorilla glue will also do the trick.
If you’re interested in exploring further DIY magnet ideas, consider pairing your seashell magnets with fingerprint magnets for a unique and personalized touch.
Seashell Butterfly
As the warm weather arrives, nothing says ‘summer’ like seashells and butterflies fluttering in the breeze. These symbols of sunshine and beauty are the perfect starting point for a fun and creative summer project. To get started, gather your essential supplies: a collection of seashells, colorful pipe cleaners, paints and brushes, cardstock, adhesive tape, and any other decorative elements that catch your eye.
Feel free to add some extra flair with flower-shaped stickers or explore more pipe cleaner craft ideas if you have extra materials on hand.
DIY Seashell Wind Chime
Imagine yourself surrounded by the soothing sounds of summer: the gentle lapping of waves against the shore, the warm breeze rustling through palm fronds. The scent of saltwater and sunshine fills your senses as you sit comfortably on a beachside porch, sipping a refreshing drink. What’s missing from this idyllic scene? A subtle yet signature element that captures the essence of coastal living: a wind chime crafted with seashells, wooden dowels, and twine.
Let the rhythmic clinking and swaying of these natural elements transport you to a tranquil state, as if suspended between the ocean’s rhythm and the sky’s serenity.
DIY Coral And Shell Resin Bangle
When your resin supply starts running low, consider replenishing it by visiting this spot. As you craft beautiful bangles featuring coral and seashells, you’ll likely find yourself craving more than a dozen pieces once you see the finished results. Adding a splash of color to these beachy-inspired accessories is as simple as introducing a few drops of resin dye. The natural texture provided by the seashells will be nicely complemented by this pop of color.
If you need assistance positioning the shells, a pair of tweezers can be used to carefully place and secure them within the resin. For more creative inspiration, be sure to explore these additional resin crafts!
Beachy Picture Frame
While it’s tempting to use up all that resin immediately, save some for this unique upcycled keepsake picture frame project. Not only will you be creating a thoughtful memento of your beach adventures, but you’ll also get to repurpose those beautiful shells and pebbles you collected. To assemble the frame, carefully place each shell and pebble into their desired positions using tweezers. Don’t be afraid to add some extra flair with color, sparkle, or other embellishments that catch your eye.
Once you’re satisfied with the arrangement, allow the epoxy to cure before admiring your handiwork. And if you’re feeling generous, consider creating these simple paper frames for kids to enjoy.
DIY Sand Dollar Resin Coasters
Now that we’ve delved into the world of sand dollars, let’s dive into creating unique coasters. One of the benefits of using sand dollars is their natural flatness and smooth surface, making them an ideal base material. To give them a durable finish, simply set the sand dollar inside an epoxy solution and allow it to dry until hardened.
The fun part begins when you can add color to your epoxy or get creative with painting directly onto the sand dollar itself – the possibilities are endless!
It’s entirely up to your personal preference how you choose to decorate your coasters.
To take your coaster game to the next level, be sure to grab silicone coaster molds for your resin from [link].
Mermaid Tiaras
As any mermaid enthusiast will attest, donning a seashell tiara is the epitome of underwater chic. For those with less than fin-tastic crafting skills, fear not! With a few simple supplies and some creative flair, it’s entirely possible to create an oceanic masterpiece that rivals even the most mythical of mermaids’ headgear. Every little mermaid-in-training deserves a tiara – after all, what’s a princess without her crown?
So, if your mini-me wants to channel their inner Ariel this Halloween season, grab the following essentials: a treasure trove of seashells, some vibrant paints and matching brushes, a trusty hot glue gun, a plain plastic tiara base to build upon, and those oh-so-sparkly chenille stems. With these materials at your disposal, the possibilities are endless – and who knows? Your little mermaid’s Halloween costume might just be the most shell-arious of them all!
DIY Seashell Ornaments
These seashell ornaments are set to elevate your collection of shell-themed decor. Not only do they sparkle and charm, but their unique character can be further emphasized with coordinating ribbons. To add an extra layer of personality, consider replacing traditional satin or jute accents with raffia instead. This textured alternative is available in a range of colors, which you can explore here.
Mermaid Wand
Your little Mer-fairy’s enthusiasm is infectious! After the mermaid tiara was a hit, she’s now set her sights on a matching mermaid wand. Who needs reality when your child wants to believe in mermaid wands, right? To bring this whimsical vision to life, gather an array of colorful ribbons from your craft stash and supplement with some additional purchases online. You’ll need a generous supply to create the ‘trail’ effect that will make this wand truly special.
When it comes to color palette, think pink, purple, and blue – the more vibrant, the better! To add an extra touch of magic, don’t forget to incorporate sparkles, crystals, and beads into your design. With a little creativity and a lot of imagination, you’ll be well on your way to crafting a mermaid wand that’s sure to delight your mini-mermaid.
Beach Ornaments For Christmas
As the holiday season approaches, we’re finding creative ways to bring the beach vibe into our homes. For many of us, that means crafting another batch of seashell ornaments for our Christmas trees. And why not? These coastal-inspired decorations are undeniably charming, and they provide a fun opportunity for kids to get involved in the craft process. As you work on your project, take a moment to relax with a warm cup of coffee – after all, it’s the most wonderful time of the year!
To create these beachy baubles, gather some seashells, sand dollars, starfish, and other coastal treasures. The more eclectic the better, we say! If you’re feeling extra festive, why not add a conch shell or two to the mix?
Tropical Seashell Fish Craft
The perfect harmony between seashells and crafting fish is quite fascinating, isn’t it? It’s as if the shells were designed specifically for this creative endeavour. To begin with, lay down a few sheets of newspaper on your workspace, considering that paint may be involved and messy splatters are likely to occur. Next, gather a few paint bottles, brushes, and some googly eyes. Notice how the little ‘fins’ on the fish resemble seashells? This synchronicity is truly remarkable.
If you enjoy this project, you might also appreciate another fin-tastic craft for kids.
DIY Jellyfish Seashell Craft
I must admit, my initial fascination with jellyfish quickly turned into unease after learning about the first aid remedies for treating stings. Now, I’m always on high alert when at the beach. However, these craft jellyfish are harmless, posing no real threat to anyone. The only potential danger lies in the risk of getting a paper cut while cutting out their outlines.
To add some extra flair, you can incorporate plenty of sparkle and color – perhaps a touch of sea-blue paint would be fitting for these creative jellyfish creations.
DIY Beach Tray
Seashell trays are timeless treasures that never lose their charm. They’re not only useful as serving dishes but also versatile display pieces for showcasing decorative items, candles, essential oils, or trinkets. Before selecting the perfect tray, consider its shape – you can opt for round, square, rectangular, or even a unique honeycomb hexagon design. These trays make thoughtful gifts for friends and guests, making them an excellent addition to your home decor arsenal.
Seashell Mirror
Seashell mirrors are a staple in many beachside homes, exuding a laid-back charm that’s hard to resist. While you can find pre-made ones at a higher cost, making your own is not only more budget-friendly but also a fun DIY project. You likely already have most of the necessary materials on hand, including a mirror, shells, paint, Mod Podge, and white glue. Just be mindful when applying the shells to avoid scratching the glass surface.
Seashell Candle With Beeswax
When crafting seashell candles, we’ll revisit a familiar technique while incorporating a more premium and eco-conscious material: beeswax. This switch yields an exceptional quality candle that’s not only visually appealing but also environmentally friendly. Beeswax is my top choice for candle-making projects, and you can easily source it here. Additionally, don’t forget to grab tea light wicks from this supplier if the standard sizes aren’t suitable for your shells.
If necessary, simply trim them with a pair of scissors to achieve the perfect fit. As an added bonus, be sure to explore our DIY bottle cap candle tutorial as well!
Seashell Fish
With an endless supply of seashell fish at our fingertips, it’s easy to get carried away with the creative possibilities. However, having too many shells can be just as overwhelming as not enough! In this case, incorporating another seashell fish craft is a great way to put those extra shells to good use. The natural sandy hue of seashells means they don’t necessarily need a paint job – their gentle beauty can shine through as-is.
To add an extra layer of personality, simply attach some googly eyes to your fishes and you’ll be all set for a fun and creative project!
Paper Plate Seashell Craft For Preschoolers
Paper plate crafts are a quick and easy solution when you’re in a creative bind or need a last-minute activity to keep young toddlers engaged. These DIY projects can provide hours of entertainment for little ones, allowing them to express their creativity while developing important skills like fine motor control. To get started, grab some paper plates – chances are you already have a stash on hand – and gather your collection of seashells.
Then, help your kids draw the seashell pattern onto the plate, transforming it into a unique, shell-shaped masterpiece. As they learn to cut out their design, be sure to supervise them closely to ensure their safety. If you’re looking for more inspiration, consider trying this paper plate flower craft – it’s another fun and creative way to keep your little ones occupied.
Candy Seashells
Planning a beach-themed party for someone’s birthday? Look no further than these realistic-looking candy seashells that make perfect cake toppers! These sweet treats are ideal for adorning cupcakes, cookies, or cakes. To create them, you’ll need some microwave-safe bowls, a plastic or silicone seashell mold, and your preferred chocolates and candies to melt and pour into the molds.
Once melted, use a popsicle stick to stir out any lumps that may have formed, ensuring a smooth finish for your edible masterpieces.
Crab And Turtle Shellfish Magnets
As a child, my fascination with crustaceans knew no bounds. It wasn’t just their delicious taste that captivated me – I was equally intrigued by the mystery surrounding them. The intricate details hidden beneath their shells sparked my curiosity, leaving me wondering what secrets lay beneath. If your kids share your enthusiasm for crabs and turtles, you’re in luck!
These sea creatures offer a perfect opportunity to teach your little ones about the wonders of the ocean through a fun and engaging craft session. Gather your supplies – seashells, paint bottles, googly eyes, and pipe cleaners – and get ready to unleash their creativity as they bring these marine animals to life.
