The EastCoaster

By: Brynn Murphy

Seashell crafts are one of the best summertime activities to do with friends and family. Going on a girls’ trip? Family Trip? Bored and want to do a craft? We found a few different crafts that you can make with seashells that are fun and easy! Most only require a few items to complete and are great for all ages. The next time you go to the beach and find a collection of seashells, keep these crafts in mind. 

1. DIY Seashell Jewelry Trinket/Dish

Photo: TikTok @Erikaalaina

This first DIY craft with seashells has gone viral this summer and last summer on TikTok. All you need to complete this art project are patterned napkins, seashells, white paint, Mod Podge, small paint brushes, and gold paint.

Steps:

1. First, paint with a small brush the white paint onto the clean seashell.
2. Then, carefully place your patterned napkin onto the shell as you want it.
3. Then paint Modge Podge onto the shell to help combine the patterned napkin and the shell.
4. Wait for this to dry.
5. Then paint the gold trim along the edges.
6. Wait for this to dry and then add jewelry!

2. DIY Seashell Photo Frame 

Photo: Pinterest 

This next seashell craft only requires three steps and three items: a photo frame, seashells, and glue. After a day at the beach, it’s great to make something with all the shells you and your friends/family collected. 

Steps:

1. Gather your materials. Choose a plain photo frame (wood or plastic works well), clean seashells of various sizes, and strong craft glue or a hot glue gun.
   
2. Arrange your design. Before gluing, place the seashells around the edges of the frame to figure out the pattern or design you like — you can alternate shell types, make a symmetrical layout, or go for a random scattered look.
   
3. Glue the shells. Once you’re happy with your arrangement, carefully glue each shell onto the frame. Press gently and let dry completely before using the frame.
   

When it’s dry, you can place a favorite summer photo inside (ex: a beach trip memory or a group picture with friends)!

3. DIY Seashell Candles

Photo: Pinterest 

Making seashell candles is a beautiful and simple way to turn your beach treasures into a cozy keepsake. These make great gifts or decorations for your room!

What you’ll need:

• Large seashells (deep enough to hold wax)
• Candle wax (or melt old candle pieces)
• Candle wicks (small size)
• Wick stickers or a dab of hot glue
• Optional: essential oils or candle dye for scent and color

Steps:

1. Prepare the shells. Make sure your seashells are clean and dry. Choose ones that sit flat so the candle wax won’t spill.
   
2. Attach the wick. Use a wick sticker or a dab of hot glue to stick the candle wick to the center bottom of the shell.
   
3. Melt and pour the wax. Carefully melt the candle wax (using a microwave-safe container or double boiler). If you want, stir in essential oils or candle dye for scent or color. Slowly pour the melted wax into the shell, holding the wick upright.
   
4. Let it set. Allow the wax to cool and harden completely. Once it’s firm, trim the wick to about ¼ inch.
   

Now you have beautiful handmade seashell candles to light up your summer nights!

Get into the summer spirit with these seashell crafts!