Decorating Ideas Using Sea Shells & Sea Glass

The sea offers beautiful treasures that we often collect, but never do anything with. Sea glass, and sea shells are just a few treasures the sea holds. Unfortunately, after spending years in the sea these treasures often end up spending years in boxes. Now you can tastefully display your treasures of the sea, and enjoy them everyday.

Sea Glass Curtain:

Supplies:
Sea Glass
Iridescent Beads
Fishing Line
Super Glue

First measure and cut your fishing line the length you like. Remember to add an extra 4 inches for the loop at top. Make your loop at the top, and either tie or glue, allowing for a 4" loop. This loop will slide over the curtain rod once the project is finished. Starting 2" from the loop glue 1 piece of sea glass to the string. You want the string to be in the middle of the sea glass. After the first piece of sea glass is attached add 6 or more iridescent beads. Push the beads all the way to the top of the string, directly under the sea glass. Leaving one bead under the sea glass, push the others down a few inches and glue another piece of sea glass on. Continue doing these steps until the entire string is completed. Once all the glass is dry, go back and position the beads between the sea glass where you want them. By putting a dab of glue under the bead it will prevent the bead from sliding down. Repeat all the steps to complete the curtain. Once you have several stands completed slide them on you curtain rod, placing then at least 2" apart. When the sun shines through the window you will have a beautiful display of sea glass.

Sea Shell Wreath:

Supplies:
Grapevine wreath (found at any craft supply store)
Sea shells of all shapes and sizes
Super glue
Elmer's glue
Beach sand
Iridescent glitter
Small paint brush

Start by mixing your beach sand (completely dry) with the iridescent glitter. You will want the mixture to be 1 part glitter to 4 parts sand. Find a thick piece of the grapevine on the wreath and cover about 2" of it with Elmer's glue using a small paint brush. Next sprinkle your glitter / sand mixture over the glue. Continue doing several 2" strips around the wreath until you are pleased with the look. Once the wreath has dried for 8 hours, gently shake the extra glitter / sand mix off. Now you can super glue your shells in place. Start by placing shells 5" apart, then filling in the gaps. Try to keep the shells random by not putting the same sizes, shapes, or colors together. The end result is a natural looking wreath that really shows off your favorite shells.

Votive Sea Glass & Sea Shell Candle Holders:

Supplies
Clear plain juice glasses
Tea candles
Sea shells
Sea glass

Fill the plain juice glass up with either sea glass, or small sea shells. Next place your tea candle in the center of the glass, pressing it down where only the top of the candle can be seen. These look best displayed in groups of 3. You can also use clear glass bowls, such as a Pyrex mixing bowl the same way. For glass bowls press 3 to 6 tea candles (depending on the size of the bowl) into the shells or sea glass making sure only the tops of the candles can be seen. This makes a lovely centerpiece for any table.

Your sea shells are more then just treasures of the sea. Hopefully they are also full of wonderful memories. By displaying your shells, and other wonders of the sea, you add a touch of nature to your home. Now your home will be full of warmth, and great memories.