Things to Make with Seashells: Cute & Creative DIY Crafts

Ever wonder what to do with that pile of seashells you’ve collected from beach trips? Instead of leaving them in jars or boxes, why not turn them into something beautiful and practical? Seashell crafts are trending on Pinterest right now — and for good reason. They’re easy, budget-friendly, and perfect for families, crafters, and coastal décor lovers.

From things to make with seashells for kids to more elegant DIYs for adults, you’ll find plenty of inspiration here. Let’s dive into creative, cool, and cute things to make with seashells that you’ll love displaying in your home or gifting to friends.

1. Easy Seashell Candle Holders 🕯️

One of the easiest and most creative uses for seashells is transforming them into candle holders. Medium or large clam and scallop shells are perfect for this project.

How to make it:

• Clean the shells to remove sand and residue.
• Place a small tea light or votive candle inside.
• For extra charm, paint the edges with gold or metallic acrylic paint, or sprinkle a little glitter.

✨ Why you’ll love it: These glowing shell candles look stunning on dining tables, patios, or as centerpieces — a simple way to bring the beach indoors.

2. Cute Things to Make with Seashells for Kids 🎨

If you’re crafting with children, seashells are perfect for fun and imaginative projects.

Kid-friendly ideas:

• Painted Seashell Animals: Turn shells into turtles, fish, or ladybugs with acrylic paint.
• Seashell Magnets: Glue small shells onto magnet strips for the fridge.
• Story Stones: Paint shells with pictures (sun, wave, starfish) and let kids make up stories using them.

Purchase Kids Sea Shell Painting Kit – Arts & Crafts Gifts for Boys and Girls.

✨ Why you’ll love it: These activities are safe, fun, and encourage creativity — plus, they make cute gifts kids can give to friends or family.

3. Cool Things to Make with Seashells for Adults 💍

Adults and teens can take seashell crafting to the next level with stylish, practical projects.

Ideas to try:

• Seashell Jewelry: Drill tiny holes and create necklaces, earrings, or bracelets paired with beads.
• DIY Wind Chimes: Thread shells with fishing line and hang them from driftwood for coastal music in the breeze.
• Trinket Trays: Decoupage napkins or gold leaf inside large shells for an elegant jewelry dish.

✨ Why you’ll love it: These projects double as décor and accessories. They’re unique, personal, and always a conversation starter.

4. Creative Seashell Picture Frames 🖼️

Want to highlight your favorite beach photos? Frame them with seashells!

How to make it:

• Use a wooden or cardboard frame as your base.
• Arrange small and large shells around the border.
• Glue them securely and let dry.
• Add extras like mini starfish or driftwood for a polished look.

✨ Why you’ll love it: A seashell picture frame makes any photo feel like a vacation memory, perfect for coastal-style home décor.

5. Whimsical Seashell Garden Décor 🌱

Looking for creative uses for seashells outdoors? Add them to your garden for coastal magic.

Ideas:

• Pathway Borders: Line walkways with oyster or clam shells.
• Planter Accents: Paint larger shells and tuck them into pots.
• Garden Mosaics: Mix shells with colorful stones on plain pots for a stunning mosaic look.

✨ Why you’ll love it: These projects bring beach vibes to your backyard, making every garden stroll feel like a seaside escape.

6. What to Do with Lots of Seashells 🐚

If you’ve got buckets of shells from past trips, here are some creative bulk projects:

• Seashell Jars: Layer shells in glass jars as rustic coastal displays.
• Shadow Boxes: Showcase special shells with sand and photos inside.
• Mosaic Art: Create tabletops, mirrors, or trays covered in seashell mosaics.

✨ Why you’ll love it: These are perfect for people who just can’t stop collecting shells (guilty as charged!).

7. Tips for Preparing Seashells Before Crafting

Before you get started, don’t forget to prep your shells:

• Soak them in warm, soapy water to remove dirt and sand.
• Boil them for a few minutes if needed to sanitize.
• Let them air dry completely before gluing or painting.

Pro tip: Store extra shells in labeled boxes or jars so you’re ready for your next DIY burst of inspiration.

Final Thoughts

Seashell crafts are more than just a way to upcycle beach treasures — they’re a way to bring the calm, beauty, and creativity of the ocean into everyday life. Whether you’re crafting with kids, designing chic décor, or finding cool things to make with seashells for adults, there’s no shortage of ideas to try.

Now it’s your turn! Which seashell craft will you make first? Share your creations with me — I’d love to feature them in a future post here on Marine Livings.