Last month we were down at the beach and I collected 4 additional boxes of seashells, sea glass and driftwood. After cleaning them up and sorting them, I found several seashells that were in “imperfect” condition. Even though they’re not perfect, you’re still able to use them in your crafting projects!
This project is really easy-to-make and perfect for the kids to do too! We used an imperfect scallop clam shell and an imperfect oyster shell to make our little trinket dish. You’ll want to wash and thoroughly dry all of your seashells before you sit down and paint them.
We used acrylic craft paints with a metallic finish as our choice in paints. These paints do take a little longer to dry, but you get a really nice sheen when using them. We used silver metallic for the oyster shell and turquoise metallic for the scallop shell. You’ll need to use 2-3 coats of paint. Let them thoroughly dry!
To attach them together you’ll want to use E6000 adhesive glue. It’s perfect for gluing seashells together and it really gives you a strong bond. When working with it, you do need to be careful to not get it onto your skin. It will take approximately 6-12 hours for it to dry, so you’ll need to be patient but it works a heck of a lot better than hot glue.
Once everything is dry take your new trinket dish outside and lay it down on old newspaper or an old plastic placemat. Use clear acrylic spray sealer (glossy finish) and give it 2 coats to protect your painted surface. It will take 1-2 hours for it to dry. You can now use your little trinket dish inside or outside!
This particular trinket dish is sitting on my granddaughter’s nightstand beside her bed. She uses it to hold her rings, earrings and necklace when she takes them off at night. We love that it has a small footprint and doesn’t take up a lot of room on her nightstand. You can make them and sit them by your kitchen and/or bathroom sink.
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If you enjoy painting on seashells or crafting with seashells…you’ll find over 70+ seashell craft projects right here on the Two Classy Chics blog! We will be sharing more seashell craft projects in the future too!
THis is a great idea for using imperfect shells that are still attractive. I know a lot of people who would enjoy using them.
You may officially call me sappy. I have mentioned before I am a nut about gifts from kids. I just am! I have things from my nieces and nephews who some are now grown. I display them or in the case of something like his. I would use it.
Again, you have made a great piece with shells. I really like this. I can put my rings in it when I get in the shower. Thank you for the idea.