Sea Shell Crafts

Adults and children enjoy completing crafts using sea shells. Sea shells are versatile and can be used to complete a variety of craft projects. You can use sea shells to make or decorate just about anything. Once your favorite sea shell craft project is complete, keep it for yourself or give it to someone else as a gift.

Decorate photo frames with sea shells. Either make or purchase photo frames. You can use wood, plastic, cardboard, foam or heavy card-stock to create a photo frame. Once the frame is complete, add natural or painted sea shells. Arrange them in patterns around the photo opening or just glue them on randomly.  You can also use beads and sequins along with the shells to add a variety of texture and creativity to the project. Another idea is to cover the frame with glue and then cover the wet glue with sand.  Once the sand dries, then glue on seas shells.  Use the frame to display your favorite beach vacation photo.

Make name plates with sea shells. Either use the sea shells naturally as you find them on the beach or paint them. Spell your name, or your child's name, out and glue the shells in place. If you chose to paint the shells, add matching ribbons and bows. You can also obtain decorative craft pieces such as little foam sand buckets and shovels from a craft store to add to the plate. Attach a thick cord to the back of the plate to hang it on a door or use an easel to display it on a table.

String sea shells together to make necklaces and bracelets.  You can purchase jewelry making kits from craft stores.  The kits contain the proper cords and tools for making earrings and more delicate jewelry pieces. Use the natural shells or paint the shells so that they resemble little bugs or critters. Add beads, sequins or other accents to the sea shells in order to create more elaborate jewelry items - or keep it simple and just use the natural shells.

Use sea shells to decorate a keepsake box.  Arrange the shells in patterns.  Use natural shells or paint them. Use the decorated box to store your favorite beach photos or other beach vacation items.  If you don't have beach memorabilia, decorate the box to satisfy your love for sea shells and use the box to store whatever precious items you have on hand.