Summer has come to an end, leaving behind the warm sun-kissed memories of lazy beach days and ocean breezes. All that’s left are the seashells you carefully collected along the shoreline, perfect for creating seashell crafts that capture those carefree moments. As the seasons change, let’s turn these beautiful treasures into something special—a way to hold onto the joy and fun of summer days, even as the weather begins to cool.
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From cockle shells you found on a weekend getaway to mussels and scallop shells from your favorite seafood dinner, there’s a craft idea waiting for a shell of every shape, size, and color. It’s incredible how versatile seashells can be in the world of crafting! Imagine filling your home with beautiful nautical pieces that perfectly capture the essence of your seaside memories.
These seashell crafts not only add a touch of coastal charm to any corner of your home but also bring a Mediterranean vibe that’s perfect for any beach lover’s aesthetic. And, if you’re looking for thoughtful gift ideas, these crafts are a fantastic choice for friends and family who share the same love as you for the beach.
The best part? These projects are a breeze; the list below will show you exactly how to make them! They also make for fun activities to enjoy with loved ones on a sunny day. If you’re still trying to figure out where to start, check out our detailed FAQ section for tips and guidance to get you going! Happy crafting.
FAQs on Seashell Craft Ideas
1. How and where do I collect seashells?
Collecting seashells is a popular activity to reminisce about beach trips, but it’s essential to be mindful while picking them up. Look for empty shells and avoid taking any with live organisms inside. Although starfish and sand dollar skeletons look beautiful, only pick up the empty ones and let the alive ones flourish in their oceanic home.
If you can’t make it to the beach, no worries! You can also find Faux Seashells at your local dollar store or craft store. And, if you’re enjoying seafood at a restaurant, why not ask your waiter for a takeaway box for those empty oysters and clam shells? They’re perfect for some after-dinner DIY fun!
2. Can I use any type of seashell for crafts?
You can use lots of different seashells for your crafts! Just look for sturdy ones, especially if they have cool shapes or patterns. Big shells like conchs or cowries are perfect for statement pieces, while smaller ones work better for the more detailed and intricate crafts. Avoid shells that are too fragile and have sharp edges, as they can be tricky to work with. Just clean and prep them first; you’re all set to create something unique.
3. How do I clean and prep my seashells for crafting?
Start by soaking them in a mixture of water and bleach for a few hours to eliminate any grime, salt, and fishy smell. If your seashells still have bits of seaweed or sand on them, soak them in a mixture of water and vinegar for about 30 minutes. Gently scrub with a soft brush to remove the residue. Rinse well and let them dry completely before using them in your crafts. This simple process ensures the shells are fresh and ready for your creative projects!
4. What are some creative seashell craft ideas?
You can adorn your home decor with seashell-themed items like picture frames, vases, and wind chimes. Or, if you’re looking to expand your jewelry collection, try making earrings, necklaces, and bracelets that capture a beachy vibe. Other fun ideas include creating mosaics or a beautiful seashell-covered wreath to hang on your door. It doesn’t stop here; we have many more fun ideas for you to explore in our curated list below!
5. What is the best glue for seashell crafts?
Gorilla Glue is a top choice because it’s flexible, dries clear, and gives a firm hold when gluing seashells together or holding them in place to your base. You can also use Epoxy Resin or Mod Podge, but these can be tricky to apply. Choose what works best and is recommended for your project, and prepare to craft away!
What’s Next?
- Be sure to flaunt your finished creations on Facebook and Instagram, and don’t forget to tag us @craftpassion!
- Pin this onto your Pinterest so you can revisit them later.
- Inspire the craft community by sharing your beautiful coastal creations with them!
- Interested in more Craft Ideas? Check out these Dollar Tree Crafts, Resin Crafts, DIY Coasters, and Pin Cushion Ideas for more inspiration.
43 Seashell Crafts You Can DIY
With everything in place, it’s time to explore some shell arts! Gather your friends and family for a fun, creative time as you explore our curated ideas. From coastal home decor to beachy keepsakes, there’s plenty to inspire your next project. Let’s get started!
DIY Plaster Keepsake Vase
Turn your vacation souvenirs and keepsakes into a unique keepsake vase by pressing them into the plaster on a vase. Whether it's shells, coins, or old jewelry, this fun and slightly messy project lets you relive memories while creating something meaningful and beautiful.
DIY Seashell Tea Light Candles
This project is a breeze if you've got leftover wax from old candles around the house! Just pop the wax out of the metal casing, melt it, and pour it into your seashells. These seashell candles bring a cozy, beachy vibe to any space!
Shell Mosaic Ornaments
If you love collecting seashells by the beach, why not turn them into mosaic ornaments? It's a sweet way to bring all your vacation memories together in one place. You can even make ornaments from a trip to remember each adventure.
Metal Leaf Oyster Shell Jewelry Dishes
This charming oyster shell craft is the perfect reason to enjoy a seafood dinner! Save your shells to create beautiful jewelry dishes that sparkle with a touch of liquid leaf and metallic nail polish. With their natural beauty enhanced, these oyster shell holders are stunning and unique.
Summer Mantel With Seashells
Create a summer mantel with a touch of coastal charm by plastering over a frame and embedding seashells before they dry. This simple yet stylish project adds a beachy vibe to your decor, perfect for capturing that summer feeling all year round whenever you look above your fireplace!
Wood Beaded Garland With Oyster Shells
Decoupage oyster shells with decorative napkins and combine them with a wood bead garland for a unique touch to your decor. You can hang it on a mantel or wall for a classic look or drape it over a bookshelf or coffee table for a subtle hint of natural beauty.
DIY Air Plant Terrariums
This coastal-themed air plant terrarium is perfect for a fun and easy DIY project. You can create a stunning display with simple materials like seashells, driftwood, and sand. Air plants are low-maintenance, requiring only occasional misting or soaking, and their varied shapes and sizes make them perfect for beautiful terrariums.
Seashell Trinket Dish
This seashell trinket dish is an excellent introduction to decoupaging for beginners and adds a touch of elegance with its cute porcelain chinaware design and gold trim. Customize it with any napkin to create beautiful, personalized gifts for friends and family.
10 Minute Seashell Succulent Arrangement
This seashell succulent arrangement is a dream come true for those who love coastal themes and succulents! It's a quick and delightful project perfect for adding a touch of green to any space or as a gift to a friend.
DIY Coastal Napkin Rings
These lovely coastal napkin rings are the perfect addition to a summer table setting! They're super easy and budget-friendly to make and add such a personal touch to your table setting. Plus, they're great conversation starters and can be crafted using simple things like cardboard tubes from paper towels and pretty seashells you collected.
Seashell Treasure Boxes
Seashell treasure boxes are perfect for the little ones who adore collecting seashells and have little treasures to keep safe. These adorable boxes make organizing their unique finds fun and add a splash of coastal charm to their room!
Sea Glass & Seashell Wind Chime
This DIY wind chime adds a relaxing melody and a touch of beauty to any space. Seashells, sea glass, and beads together create a charming coastal look. Arrange your shells and glass in a fun pattern, and enjoy the lovely chime sound as they gently clink together!
Resin Seashell Coasters
Incorporate your favorite seashells into these beautiful resin seashell coasters that add coastal charm to any space! These coasters are perfect for sprucing up your coffee table, making thoughtful gifts, or adding a personal flair to your beach-themed decor.
Decorative Seashell Bottles
Small bottles from the dollar store make a perfect base for crafting charming decorative seashell bottles! Fill them with sand and tiny shells for a lovely touch. Add a few larger shells to the corks with hot glue, and enjoy your very own beautiful beach-themed decor!
Seashell Shadow Boxes
Create these artistic seashell shadow boxes inspired by Pottery Barn while being budget-friendly! You can craft a beautiful set to hang as decor at home with a few simple materials. Instead of spending $399 at Pottery Barn, make your own DIY version for a chic, coastal touch!
Air Plant Jellyfish
You're sure to fall in love with these adorable air-plant jellyfish! These tiny creations are super easy to make. Gather some clear thread or fishing line, glue, air plants, and sea urchin shells. Air plants, or Tillandsia, don't need soil and thrive on air nutrients. These shells can be sourced from gift shops, craft stores, or online.
Nicole’s Natural Toothbrush Holders
A conch shell makes for a playful and stylish toothbrush holder, adding a subtle beachy vibe to your bathroom decor. It's a subtle way to introduce seaside charm while keeping things functional. Plus, showcasing that beautiful shell you picked up is a lovely way!
Gilded Seashells
Give your seashells a touch of glamor using gold leaf techniques! Experiment with two methods: gold leaf sheets for smooth surfaces or liquid gilding for a quick, fantastic effect on textured shells. Brush on the gilding for a stunning result that dries quickly, or use gold leaf sheets for a more decadent finish.
Charming DIY Seashell Bracelet
Relive your beach memories by crafting a beautiful seashell bracelet from your collected treasures! Turn the shells into beads by carefully drilling holes with a light touch to keep them intact and fasten them onto a small jewelry chain.
DIY Seashell Necklace
This simple seashell necklace is a true gem for those who adore beach-inspired accessories. Instead of splurging on expensive handmade pieces, crafting your own DIY seashell necklace is a fun and affordable way to enjoy tropical elegance.
DIY Coastal Tic-Tac-Toe
Are you looking for a fun, beachy game? Try crafting this easy tic-tac-toe board with starfish as X's and sand dollars as O's for a charming, seaside twist on this classic game. It's a simple project you can complete in the afternoon, and it's perfect for adding a touch of nautical fun to any beach vacation!
Seashell Angel Ornament
Craft stunning seashell angel ornaments for Christmas to hold onto those beach memories! This fun project allows for your personal touch. Add some glitter or adorn the shells with ribbons to sparkle with holiday magic.
Shell Crystal Craft
As a fun summer science project, try growing borax crystals on seashells! This experiment adds a magical charm to learning. It's a fantastic way to make science exciting for kids, combining a simple chemistry experiment with a creative twist.
Seashell Flower Art Decor
This seashell flower art decor is a great way to decorate and showcase memories from your beach trips in a creative way. Add a coat of chalk paint to a wooden board for a vintage touch, and arrange your seashells of different shapes, sizes, and colors into beautiful flower designs.
Animal Shell Art Craft
Create adorable animal art using seashells! With extra materials, you can craft whimsical designs that will be cherished, whether it's an elephant, turtle, or owl. Experiment with different shell shapes and layer, stack, turn, or flip them to bring your cute creatures to life!
Beautiful Decoupage Shell Dish
Turning shells into elegant pieces with a delicate pattern is a delightful project, making them perfect gifts or charming additions to your home. Choose images that inspire you, like fish illustrations and patterns, to create sophisticated art pieces.
DIY Seashell Placemat Purse
Have you ever thought you could make a purse using placemats? With placemats as your base, you can craft a stylish beach day purse that's one-of-a-kind! Follow this step-by-step tutorial to bring your placemat purse adorned with seashells.
Oyster Shell Bookends
Crafting these stylish oyster shell bookends gives your bookshelf a splash of ocean charm. They bring a beachy vibe to your home and make a fun, functional addition to your decor! Not only do they look fabulous, but they also keep your favorite books perfectly in place. Click for more DIY bookend ideas.
DIY Seashell Seahorse Craft
Design a delightful seashell seahorse by arranging and gluing seashells onto a printed template. This project is simple and flexible, as you can easily swap the seahorse for another design. Add a burlap fabric edge for a rustic touch, or take it up by framing your seashell art!
Seashell Serving Tray
Turn seashells you collected over the summer into a DIY beach tray to serve your guests' refreshments! This easy summer craft turns your beach finds into a charming serving tray with just a few simple steps and resin.
Seashell Wine Charms
Spice up your next gathering with seashell wine charms that add a splash of coastal flair to every sip. These adorable charms make it easy to keep track of everyone's glass while bringing a touch of beach magic to your table.
Unique Seashell Mirror
Turn an ordinary mirror into a seaside masterpiece with a unique seashell design. This charming mirror adds a touch of coastal elegance and makes for a stunning conversation starter.
Marbled Seashell Craft
Use nail polish to paint seashells with a marbling technique for a fun and creative family activity! The results are sure to add a unique twist to your seashell collection. It's a craft everyone can enjoy together!
Seashell Bookmark
Make each page of your favorite book feel like a beach escape with a seashell bookmark. This sweet little coastal accent is perfect for anyone who loves the sea, and it's like having a tiny piece of the beach with you, page after page. Click for more DIY bookmark ideas.
Dried Flower Oyster Keychains
Create beautiful keepsakes by turning ordinary oyster shells into pretty keychains with delicate dried flowers. This quick and easy craft is perfect for beginners, and the result is a lovely accessory that adds a touch of nature to your everyday essentials.
Seashell Art Decor
This seashell heart wall decor adds a vintage, nautical touch to your home. By arranging seashells in the shape of a heart onto a heart-shaped wooden panel, the finished piece is a delightful mix of coastal flair and timeless charm.
DIY Seashell Planter
Give your plants a coastal makeover with planters decked out in seashells arranged like shimmering fish scales. This creative touch adds a nautical vibe to your greenery, making your favorite plant displays stand out with seaside style.
Seashell Memory Frame Keepsake
Wondering what to do with all those seashells instead of tossing them in a box? How about learning how to make this keepsake memory frame? With just a chunky wood frame from the dollar store, some shells, and hot glue, this quick and easy project turns your beach treasures into a lovely display!
Easy DIY Seashell Wreath
Welcome everyone with a gorgeous seashell wreath that brings a touch of coastal charm right to your front door. This beautiful decoration makes a fabulous first impression, like a warm seaside hug for your guests!
Seashell Flowers
Create a beautiful beach-inspired flower with seashells that captures the essence of summer. Use hot glue or gorilla glue to secure the shells together so you can display this piece of art in your home.
Coastal Charms
This shell craft suits those who adore the beach and want to bring a coastal vibe into their home! Creating ornaments with starfish, sand dollars, and driftwood is beautiful and quick, taking only a few minutes.
Seashell Magnets
Brighten your fridge with these simple magnet shell crafts that bring beachy fun to your kitchen. These cute, easy-to-make accents hold your notes and photos while adding beachy flair.
Seashell Specimen Art
This easy seashell art project is a great way to keep those sunny memories fresh in your home! Gather butterfly Coquina shells from your beach trip and arrange them on a scrapbook or watercolor paper in a picture frame for a beautiful and creative craft.