Simply stunning: 6+ DIY seashell projects bring the beach right to your doorstep

Seashells are sentimental tangible reminders of wonderful times enjoyed on beach vacations, and they’re ideal for DIY projects that bring the outside in. Whether you collect shells or not, one walk on the beach at low tide will yield plenty of supplies for these pieces, and they’re sold at craft stores. If you’re longing for a vacation at the seashore but can’t get away, these projects offer the next best thing: the look, feel and casual spirit of the beach.
Each piece is low-cost in terms of materials and doesn’t require ninja-level DIY skills. Some have noted that “putting a bird on it” will immediately transform a ho-hum item into something special. Seashells do the same. These projects are versatile in the best way. All of the pieces will look just as at home on an end table or a mantel as they do on a covered porch or patio, and they all inspire sweet beach dreams.
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Make a seashell garland
This project puts a pretty twist on a décor accent one often associates with pine boughs at Christmas. Garlands can lend style to a mantle, front door or window any time of year. This unique shell garland will convey an “endless summer” feeling wherever it’s hung. The seashells are the main ingredient of course, but another detail that lends loads of charm are the sweet DIY tassels that hang between the shells. In exchange for just a bit of time and a few simple supplies, you get a beautiful reminder of great memories in the sand and surf. Get the tutorial here.
Make a seashell terracotta pot
A few exquisite and wonderfully different shells collected on beach walks are the magic ingredients for this seashell terracotta pot project. These elements elevate a humble $2 pot to something special. You can easily customize this project to match your color scheme depending on what color of chalk paint you choose. With greenery in it, the pot will remind you of the palm trees swaying in the beachy breeze at sunset. This piece will look equally stylish on the living room hearth or outside on the patio. Get the tutorial here.
Make a seashell frame
This wonderfully beachy seashell photo frame is bound to provoke reminiscences about epic beach trips, but it’s the project’s subtlety and asymmetry that supply much of its appeal. The key is that the frame is not overwhelmed with shells; you just apply them sparingly at the corners. The stone-textured finish spray that coats the entire frame looks like a seashore fairy sprinkled genuine sand on it. This decor accent is a “shore thing” when it comes to adding a touch of beach style to a mantel, desk or bedside table. You could also hang the frame with a grouping on a gallery wall. Get the tutorial here.
Make seashell wall art
This seashell wall art project will convince guests that your primary residence is a casual beach getaway. The piece would look at home above a fireplace or as outdoor lounging area décor. The hundreds of tiny shells that make up the central image create a striking collage effect. Other sea-worthy detailing includes netting and the thick rope that frames the piece. This project isn’t just pretty, it’s different in the best way possible. Get the tutorial here.
Make a seashell keychain
This summery keychain project is simple and oh so cute. It requires just one pretty shell, so choose carefully. A string of beads highlight the shell, which adds some bling to the nature-based theme of the piece. The keychain can be used practically to corral keys or as a pretty purse or backpack fob. It would be easy to make two of these so you can keep one and give the other to a pal with whom you’ve shared so many fun times at the beach! Get the tutorial here.
Make a seashell basket
Wicker is the perfect foundation for this sweet seashell basket project. The shells that adorn the basket are known as clamrose shells. Because they’re white, the step of painting them really gives the basket that special “day at the beach” feeling. White yarn around the top rim of the basket provides extra polish to the project. You’ll enjoy corralling clutter with something this pretty to put it in. A seashell basket will add natural beauty to the kitchen counter, entryway table or on your desk at work. Get the tutorial here.
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