Have you ever found yourself picking up seashells on the beach, marveling at their beauty, only to have them end up forgotten in a drawer once you’re back home?
I know I have! But what if I told you that those little treasures from the sea could become stunning, wearable works of art?
As someone who’s always been captivated by the ocean’s charm, I’ve collated nine incredible seashell ornament craft ideas that not only showcase these natural wonders but also let your creativity shine.
From bohemian-chic accessories to elegant jewelry, these crafts will transport you back to those sandy shores with every wear.
So, dust off your seashell collection, and let’s dive into a world where the whispers of waves meet your own artistic flair.
Trust me, by the end of this post, you’ll be itching to turn those neglected shells into conversation starters that carry the essence of your favorite beach memories.
Painted Seashell Pendant
Get creative with this beautiful painted seashell pendant. Start by selecting a large, flat seashell, one with a smooth surface works best. Gather your acrylic paints in a palette of ocean-themed colors.
Think blues and greens for waves, vibrant hues for fish, and perhaps a touch of white for seascapes.
Carefully paint your chosen designs onto the shell, letting your imagination guide you.
Whether you go for a serene beach scene, playful dolphins, or abstract ocean patterns, make sure the paint you use is suitable for shell material to ensure it adheres well.
Once your masterpiece is dry, use a small drill to carefully create a hole at the top of the shell. Thread a silver chain or a sturdy cord through the hole.
You now have a unique and artistic necklace that brings a piece of the ocean with you wherever you go.
This handmade accessory is not only a beautiful addition to your jewelry collection but also a wonderful way to showcase your creativity.
Seashell and Pearl Anklet
Add a touch of summer style to your beach outfit with a charming seashell and pearl anklet.
This delightful project is perfect for using those tiny seashells or shell fragments you’ve collected.
Begin by selecting small, delicate seashells and pairing them with equally dainty pearls.
The combination of natural seashells and lustrous pearls creates a beautiful contrast that captures the essence of the ocean.
Using a delicate silver chain, alternate between threading small pearls and seashells.
You can create a pattern or place them randomly for a more eclectic look.
Ensure each element is securely attached to prevent them from slipping off. Once you’ve covered the desired length of the anklet, clasp the ends securely.
Seashell Hair Clip
Add a touch of beachy flair to your hairstyle with a charming seashell hair clip.
Choose a small, flat seashell and a plain alligator clip (The flatter the shell, the better it will adhere to the clip).
Gather your supplies, including a strong glue that’s suitable for seashells to ensure a secure bond.
Apply a generous amount of glue to the top of the alligator clip and press the shell firmly into place (Hold it steady for a few minutes to ensure it sets properly).
Once the glue is completely dry, you can get creative with additional decorations.
Consider adding tiny faux pearls, sparkly rhinestones, or even a dab of glitter to give your hair clip an extra touch of glamor.
This seashell hair clip is not only easy to make but also adds a unique, handmade accessory to your collection.
Whether you’re heading to the beach or just want to bring a bit of the seaside into your everyday look, this project is a perfect way to showcase your love for the ocean.
Seashell Charm Bracelet
Create a charm bracelet that captures your beach memories.
Find seashells in various shapes and sizes and once you’ve found them, drill holes in them and attach them directly to the bracelet chain using jump rings.
Alternatively, you can purchase pre-made seashell charms or other ocean-themed charms to add variety.
Miniature Seashell Terrarium Necklace
This seashell craft is fairly straightforward, you have to first find a tiny glass vial with a cork stopper.
Then, arrange a small seashell, a speck of sand, and perhaps a single blade of dried beach grass inside the vial.
Secure the cork stopper tightly followed by attaching the vial to a necklace chain using jump rings or a length of thread looped around the neck of the vial.
This creates a charming and unique necklace that captures the essence of the seashore in a miniature world.
Seashell Zipper Pull
Give your favorite bag or jacket a beachy update with a seashell zipper pull.
Choose a small seashell and a plain zipper pull and use a strong glue suitable for seashells to securely attach the shell to the front of the zipper pull.
Once dry, you can customize it further by adding a small bead or a dab of glitter for an extra touch of sparkle.
Painted Seashell Keychain
Add a personal touch to your keychain by embellishing it with vibrant paint.
Choose a small, flat seashell followed by cleaning and drying it thoroughly.
Next, use acrylic paints suitable for seashells to paint a simple ocean-themed design on the shell, such as a seascape, a fish, or a sea turtle.
After it has dried completely, use a small drill to create a hole near the top.
Attach a jump ring through the hole, then connect it securely to a keychain clasp to complete the assembly.
Seashell and Tassel Keychain
Add a touch of boho style to your accessories with a charming seashell and tassel keychain.
Start by selecting a seashell with a pre-existing hole near the top.
If your shell doesn’t have a hole, you can carefully drill one yourself using a small drill bit.
Next, cut a short length of leather cord or any other string material that suits your style.
Pass the cord through the hole in the seashell, securing it with a tight knot at the bottom to create a petite tassel.
You can add a few more strands of cord for a fuller tassel effect if desired.
Once your tassel is complete, attach a jump ring to the top of the cord. Finally, complete your project by connecting the jump ring securely to a keychain clasp.
The seashell and tassel keychain beautifully combines boho flair with a touch of coastal charm.
It’s an easy yet stylish accessory that you can clip onto your keys, bag, or even use as a zipper pull.
Decoupaged Seashell Keychain
Give your seashell a makeover with decoupage.
Select a small seashell and a piece of tissue paper with an ocean-themed pattern.
Next, cut a small section of tissue paper to fit precisely onto the seashell’s surface.
Use a decoupage medium suitable for seashells to adhere the tissue paper to the shell.
Apply multiple thin coats, letting each layer dry completely.
Once dry, seal the decoupage with a final coat of decoupage medium or a clear sealant spray.
Drill a small hole near the top of the shell and attach a jump ring to connect it to a keychain clasp.
Final Thoughts
These seashell ornament crafts not only breathe new life into collected seashells but also allow us to carry a piece of the ocean wherever we go.
As someone who values sustainability, I recommend choosing eco-friendly materials and paints when possible.
Additionally, consider gifting these handmade treasures to loved ones, they make for meaningful, personalized presents.
Overall, these projects remind me that with a little imagination, we can transform nature’s humble offerings into wearable art that tells our own unique stories.
