41 Seashell Craft Ideas to Make You an Ocean Goddess

Seashell craft ideas are a great way to turn old shells into something useful. They make for beautiful decorations and serve as a reminder of your favorite beach vacation or as a way to bring some of the ocean’s beauty indoors.

There are many craft ideas that you can make from seashells.

You can use them to make jewelry, decorative objects, ornaments, and wind chimes. You can also use them in your home décor; they look gorgeous in vases, bowls, or just on their own as decoration.

There are also many different types of shells that you can use for your craft projects; each type will give off its unique appearance when it’s finished. This article will show you how to turn seashells into works of art.

Here are 41 seashell craft ideas to inspire your next project:

Seashell Craft Ideas

1. Seashell Wreath

Seashell wreaths are incredibly customizable. You can use any type of seashell, from tiny white shells to large, colorful ones.

Begin by covering your wire with shells; you can create a pattern or simply glue the shells on randomly. Finally, hang the wreath on your front door or in a room as a beachy decoration.

2. Seashell Candle Holders

To make seashell candle holders, start with a scallop shell and cut away the top part so that it has an opening at one end. Glue the shells on top of each other, leaving enough room for your candle to sit in the middle.

If you want to get fancy, you can paint or decorate your candle holder with glitter, stickers, or any other craft supplies you have lying around.

3. Seashell Wind Chime

The best part about seashell wind chimes is that you only need a few supplies to make them. Try using different types of sea glass or pieces of coral if you want to get creative.

Once you’ve collected your materials, it’s time to string things together! Cut your wooden dowels or driftwood into different lengths based on how long you want your chime to be. Then thread a shell onto each one until they’re all connected.

When everything is tied together securely, hang up your chime outside in a place where it can catch the wind and enjoy its soothing sound.

4. Seashell Picture Frame

Seashell picture frames are a great DIY project for anyone looking to add sea-inspired flair to their home decor while showing off their favorite photos.

The frame is made using seashells that have been cleaned, polished, and glued together. You can use a single shell or a collection of shells, depending on your mood and the look you want to achieve.

5. Seashell Planter

This super-simple seashell craft project is perfect for a rainy or hot summer day when you want to feel like you’re at the beach without actually going outside.

Grab some seashells and a few other items from your local craft store. Then, transform a small terra cotta planter by gluing shells onto the outside. You can use a variety of shells in different sizes and colors or stick with a single type for a more cohesive look. 

Finally, fill the planter with a small plant or succulent for a cute and unique addition to your home or office.

6. Seashell Garland

Seashell garlands are a fun way to add color and texture to any room. It is also a great opportunity to use shells you collected on your travels.

The easiest way to make seashell garlands is with a hot glue gun. You can also use a string or ribbon. Take the shells and arrange them on a piece of string or twine, gluing each down as you go along. 

Hang the garland on a mantel, above a bed, or along a wall for a touch of coastal charm. Just make sure that the glue dries completely before putting it up!

7. Seashell Ornaments

Seashell ornaments are a great project for kids because they can be made with just a few simple supplies. 

Transform small seashells into festive ornaments by hot gluing a ribbon loop onto the back of each shell. Hang the ornaments on your Christmas tree or use them to decorate wreaths and garlands.

8. Seashell Soap Dish

These seashell craft ideas are perfect for creating an ornament that looks straight out of your beach vacation! 

Use large cockle shells and turn them onto a soap dish to create a beachy bathroom accessory. It’s a great way to give your bathroom more character and make it feel like a place you want to spend time in.

9. Seashell Coasters

You can use these resin seashell coasters to decorate your table tops or use them as serving pieces for drinks at your next party.

Once you’ve selected your shells, place them in silicone coaster molds. Then, pour the resin into the container until it covers all the shells. Let this harden overnight or until it’s completely solidified before using them as coasters in your home.

10. Seashell Jewelry

Seashell jewelry is a creative way to add a bit of nautical flair to your outfits. Use small seashells to create earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. 

You can also drill holes into the shells and attach jump rings or wire to turn them into pendants or string them onto elastic cords to create stretchy bracelets.

11. Seashell Keychains

Seashell keychains make great gifts for friends and family or even yourself. They’re easy to make but are also a lot of fun.

You can carve or paint on the shells however you like; if you’re feeling extra crafty, try using stencils or glitter glue. After decorating your shells, let them dry for a few hours, making them easier to attach to your keychain rings.

12. Seashell Magnets

Make shell magnets for your fridge or magnetic board by painting them, then attaching them to a magnet with super glue. 

If you want a more permanent solution, try using a mod podge instead and seal it with clear nail polish. These seashell craft ideas are easy to make, and you can customize them to fit your style!

13. Seashell Vase

Seashell vases make a lovely addition to any home decor. This craft idea is easy and fun, and you can use the vase for many years to come.

You can also make them in any color, and they’re great for displaying flowers, plants, or just about anything else you want to put in them.

14. Seashell Shadow Box

This seashell shadow box is a great example of turning a simple craft project into something truly special. You can use this as a decoration or to store your favorite seashells—either way, it’s sure to be a show-stopper!

You can hang it on a wall or set it on a shelf. This craft project is also suitable for children because there’s no cutting involved.

15. Seashell Dreamcatcher

A dreamcatcher is hung above your bed and is supposed to catch bad dreams and let good ones pass through.

To make a seashell dreamcatcher, start by finding some small seashells that will fit together nicely around the string. You can use any kind of shell that you like—scallops, oysters, whelk, or even conch shells all work great!

16. Seashell Bookmark

If you’re looking for a cute way to jazz up an old textbook that’s been sitting around forever, seashell bookmarks are a great way to do it.

You can use any kind of seashell for this project—just make sure it’s large enough that it won’t get lost in the pages of your book!

17. Seashell Wedding Favors

Seashell wedding favors are a beautiful way to commemorate your special day. 

Whether you’re getting married on the beach or just want to bring some sand into your wedding, these shells will look great wherever they are placed.

18. Seashell Place Card Holders

This seashell craft project is simple enough for children but will also make a great party favor for adults.

You’ll be able to make these place card holders in less than an hour, and they’ll look great on any table. They’re also a creative way to add a bit of whimsy at your next dinner party.

19. Seashell Mosaic Art

You can create a mosaic using any number of shells, and the pieces can be arranged in any pattern or configuration to fit your space. The result will be a piece that reflects your interests, creativity, and personality.

Start by collecting some shells—the more, the better! You’ll want to choose your shell types carefully, so they fit together well. It’s also important to look at the size of the shell when choosing which ones you want to use.

20. Seashell Clock

A seashell clock is a project that’s perfect for the whole family. It’s beautiful and unique, making it ideal for decorating your home. 

You can make one from various shells, including cowries, scallops, and conchs. Once you have all your shells, clean them with soap and water, so they’re ready to work with.

Use hot glue or another strong adhesive to attach your shell pieces to the large clock face. Then let it dry overnight.

21. Seashell Suncatcher

Seashell suncatchers are a great way to introduce children to the wonders of seashells by creating art with them.

It’s also an excellent way to get rid of those old seashells you’ve been hanging onto for years! If you have leftover paint, you can create a custom color scheme.

22. Seashell Lampshade

This seashell craft idea will have you feeling like you’re in the sand and surf!

The large shell is the shade, and the light source is provided by an LED bulb that can be plugged in or powered by a battery. The result is a beautiful, natural-looking lamp that will make any room feel cozy.

23. Seashell Gift Tags

You can use seashells to make gifts more special or even wrap presents with them. The best way to do this is to use white clam shells with holes.

Rinse and dry the shells, then write your message with a marker inside the shells. Finally, use some ribbon and twine to thread through the shell’s hole.

24. Seashell Hair Clip

Seashells are the perfect accent for any girl’s hair. They add a touch of beachy chic to any outfit, and they’re great for adding some flair to any hairstyle.

You’ll need a glue gun and some glue sticks—you’ll use these to attach the pretty seashells onto the hair clip. That’s all there is to it—now you’ve got an adorable seashell hair clip!

25. Seashell Jewelry Holder

Seashell jewelry holders are a stylish way to organize your favorite necklaces, rings, bracelets, and earrings and display them simultaneously.

This craft project also makes an excellent gift for a summer wedding, beach house, or even just to add a touch of coastal decor to your bedroom.

26. Seashell Scrapbook Embellishments

Give your scrapbook pages a little nautical flair with these seashell embellishments. You can use the shells as is, paint them, or glue glitter or sequins on them. 

Shells come in many different shapes and sizes, so you’ll have no problem finding the right fit for the scrapbook you’re working on.

27. Seashell Bookends

Use seashells to hold your books upright! You can do this fun craft project with kids or even by yourself. You can also use it as a centerpiece on your table.

Seashell bookends are easy to make, and shells come in various sizes, so you can find one that fits your space perfectly.

28. Seashell Serving Tray

Seashell serving trays are perfect for a light lunch or dinner. They’re beautiful, durable, and long-lasting.

Use the shells you’ve collected from the beach and put them on the bottom of a wooden tray. Then, combine resin and hardener and pour the mixture onto the tray to cover the shells. Let it cure for 24 hours.

You can also apply a rustic finish to make the serving trays look like they’ve been sitting at the bottom of the ocean for years.

29. Seashell Serving Dishes

Seashells aren’t just for decoration either—they’re also functional! 

Seashells can be used to hold small snacks like nuts or olives, or they can be used as the base for larger appetizers or desserts.

Before using them as serving dishes, clean the shells thoroughly with soap and water, then dry them with paper towels (you don’t want any moisture on them).

30. Seashell Wine Charms

Seashells can be used to adorn the neck of a wine bottle, or they can be attached to the stem of a wine glass (or both!).

These wine charms are cute, easy to make, and a great way to add an extra flair to your next wine-tasting party.

31. Seashell Birdhouse

Try a seashell birdhouse if you’re looking for a new way to decorate your garden! You can make it with any seashells you like—use your imagination!

This is a fun craft project that you can use to decorate your yard and celebrate the ocean. It’s also a great way to encourage birds to visit your garden.

32. Seashell Beach Bag

This bag is a beautiful way to display your love for the beach. Use shells from your favorite beach to create a bag that is uniquely yours.

Choose a large bag to hold all your beach essentials—sunscreen, towels, snacks, and more. Glue the shells on the outside, then fill the bag with all necessities for your next trip.

33. Seashell Beach Hat

You don’t have to be sitting on the beach to enjoy the beauty of seashells. This adorable seashell beach hat is the perfect way to bring your favorite seashells wherever you go!

It’s also the perfect way to keep your head cool and protected from the sun while you’re out and about. The best part is that it’s super easy to make!

34. Seashell Mirrors

Seashells are an easy way to make your home look like you spent hours making it look nice. 

If you’ve got a shell collection, you can use them to make seashell mirrors. All you need is some glue and a little patience. 

Make sure you clean all your shells, so they’re ready for your project. Then, use Mod Podge or glue to stick them onto the mirror in any pattern or design you want!

35. Seashell Trinket Boxes

Seashell trinket boxes are a beautiful way to store your little treasures, like jewelry and other small items.

When you make these yourself, you can customize them with any color of paint or stain you want. You can even use colored sand or seashells to decorate the inside of the box.

36. Seashell Napkin Rings

Seashell napkin rings are excellent for entertaining and make a unique addition to any table setting. They’re also a great gift idea!

You can glue the shells together or string them on ribbons. These seashell craft ideas allow you to enjoy the natural beauty of shells every day and have an item that can be used for years.

37. Seashell Balls

Seashell balls are a great craft project for kids. You can use any seashell that floats and is safe to handle, but the best shells are those you find yourself. 

They’re really easy to make, too! You just need seashells, glue, and paint (if you want). Then you can adorn them however you like and use them for decorations or as placemats for your table.

38. Seashell Bottle Stoppers

This is one of the perfect seashell craft ideas for those who love to recycle. Glass bottle stoppers keep your favorite liquor, wine, or other drinks fresh.

With this DIY project, you can create a bottle stopper that is as unique as the person who uses it. You can make these for yourself or as a gift for someone who loves the beach.

39. Seashell Brooch

This seashell brooch is the perfect way to add a touch of nautical style to any outfit, whether it’s a beach-themed party or just a casual day. 

Plus, it’s really easy to make and can be customized with any shell you like. You can also add other embellishments like beads and sequins to suit your taste and style.

40. Seashell Rose

If you love the look of roses, but hate that they are short-lived and hard to transport, try making a seashell rose! 

These simple seashell craft ideas will add a touch of seaside elegance to any room. You can make one in just a few minutes using materials you already have.

41. Seashell Chargers

Seashell chargers are a fun way to serve food or drink. You can make your own or buy them pre-made, but either way, they’re an awesome addition to any party or event!

They’re perfect for outdoor dining because you don’t have to worry about them getting knocked over by a gust of wind or spilled water. They’re also great if you like the look of seashells and want them incorporated into your tablescapes.

Craft Ideas Using Seashells FAQ

What are some creative seashell craft ideas?

Some ideas for seashell crafts include making seashell-adorned home decor items like picture frames, vases, and candle holders. 

You can also use seashells to create jewelry, such as earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. Other ideas include creating mosaics or creating a seashell-covered wreath.

What is the best glue for seashell crafts?

Gorilla glue works best for seashell craft ideas because it’s flexible, dries clear, and gives you a better hold on the shell than other adhesives.

Another option is to use epoxy or Mod Podge, but these can be tricky to apply.

What can you spray on seashells to make them shiny?

To make seashells shiny, you can spray them with mineral oil. Mineral oil is a type of lubricant that will protect your seashells’ surface and help keep them looking nice.

How do you clean seashells without losing color?

The best way to clean seashells is by boiling them in water.

Boiling water will kill bacteria and make the shells safe to decorate. Boiling also removes dirt, which helps to keep your shells looking bright and colorful.

Can you paint seashells?

Yes, you can. The best way to paint seashells is to use acrylic paint. You’ll want to ensure that your shells are clean and dry before painting.

Conclusion

We hope you’ve enjoyed this list of seashell craft ideas. These projects are a fun way to get creative and use up some of the beautiful seashells you find during your beach-combing adventures.

And if you have other craft ideas using seashells, share them with us! We might include them in our next update.