Inspirations from the Sea...Shellscape Designs
Written by Betsy A. Eno
Each day the tide rolls in, leaving a bounty of treasures along our sandy, gulf coast shores. Among the sea’s gifts is an abundance of shells in a variety of sizes, shapes, textures, and colors that beckon beachgoers to stop, look, pick up, and ponder the possibilities of what could be created. Here are a few ideas to help get you started.
Create an elegant picture frame by hot gluing shells and starfish onto the front of a frame that depicts the color of the sea. For embellishment, glue pearls inside the scallop shells and around the starfish. Place a picture of your favorite beach outing inside the frame and give it to someone as a present, which is sure to be cherished by the person receiving it.
Purchase a shallow wooden box with dividers at your local craft store; or, make one out of craft sticks and wood glue. Fill each section of the box with broken shell pieces, small stones, or sharks’ teeth. Top each section with one large starfish, sand dollar, or shell.
Capture the beauty of nature by placing your seaside treasures in a wide-mouth jar with a cork top. Fill the jar approximately a quarter full with small white shells or sand. Next, lay the jar on its side and carefully add shells, starfish and other collections in whatever manner you desire.
Show off your eclectic seashell assortment by filling a decorative glass container or vase with shells of different textures, shapes, sizes, and colors. Place small pieces in first, then add larger ones. For a dramatic finish, stand two scallop shells on end so they are leaning together outside the container. Display near a window, on a desk or wherever you want to make a bold statement.
Transform your beach gems into a work of art by selecting different types of shells with similar colors. Find a matching frame and place fabric or decorative paper on the inside of the frame’s cardboard backing. Artfully arrange the shells and use hot glue to adhere them to the surface of the paper or fabric. Display your seashore art in a prime location of your home for all to enjoy.
Whether you use one of these ideas or choose to design your own shellscape, we hope you have been inspired to be creative with some of the sea’s most prized possessions!
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