Uses for Seashells

• A big seashell works nicely as a paperweight. Put it on a stack of papers or magazines on a desk or coffee table for a instant touch of class. A seashell with an opening can make a fine place card holder for dinner parties. Write guests' names on small squares of thick card stock. Slide the slips of paper in the slit-like opening of the seashell. If it doesn't stay, use a small piece of tape to keep it secured. Have a bunch of shells? Put them on display in a large hurricane glass. First, fill the glass about a third full with sand. (This can also be purchased in a bag from many craft stores.). Then, fill the glass about another third or so with shells. It's an easy way to bring the beach back home (without the mess).
  
  

Seashell Mirror

• Seashells come in all shapes and sizes. This makes for fun and interesting crafts. Here's an easy way to spend a little on a project and make it look like it cost hundreds. Purchase an inexpensive mirror with a large, wood frame. Paint the mirror frame white. When the paint dries, use craft glue to affix seashells onto the frame. (Plan on having several hundred on hand, depending on the size of the mirror.) There should be no rhyme or reason to the pattern, just make sure there is little to no frame showing once all shells have been glued. Hang the mirror on a wall. The best part of this project is that once it's finished, it truly looks like one of a kind.
  
  

Seashell Jewelry

• Many seashells come with small holes in them or are sturdy enough to have small holes drilled into them. This is perfect for stringing jewelry. To make a beachy necklace, use a sturdy white cord. Cut it long enough so that it can be slipped over the head and there is no need for a closure. String on glass beads (use different shades of blue). For every 20 beads or so, string on a seashell. For a beachy bracelet, buy a flat bangle or cuff that fits easily over your wrist. Similar to the mirror project, spray paint it white and use craft glue and lots of small seashells. Just make sure that there any rough edges are facing away from the bracelet edges so that there is no chances of wrist pinches.