Using Shells in Home Accessories Design

Shells add a distinctive natural aesthetic to any space, evoking the calm of the sea and the beauty of beaches inside our homes. Collecting shells is no longer just a summer hobby; it has evolved into a true art form and a source of inspiration for many in the world of interior décor. Using shells in home accessories design offers endless possibilities for adding a personal and unique character to interior spaces. By integrating these marine treasures into various decorative pieces, any corner of the home can be transformed into an artistic canvas that reflects the beauty of nature, creating a sense of comfort and relaxation while renewing the energy of the space in a simple and authentic way.

What are the best types of shells for home décor?

When considering the use of shells in home accessories design, it is important to choose suitable types that serve both aesthetic and practical purposes. Shells vary greatly in size, shape, and color, providing a wide range of options to suit all tastes. Some of the most popular types used in marine-inspired décor include:
Oyster shells: Relatively large in size with a pearly interior surface, making them ideal for use as decorative dishes or jewelry holders.
Starfish: An iconic element in beach-inspired décor, usable as a standalone decorative piece or incorporated into wall art.
Spiral shells: With their unique spiral forms, they add depth and dimension to designs and are perfect for decorating mirror and photo frames or filling clear vases.
Conch shells (large shells): Thanks to their size and striking shape, they can be used as eye-catching centerpiece décor on shelves or tables.

Advantages of using shells in home accessories design

Using shells in home accessories design offers several advantages that make it an appealing choice. In addition to their low cost—especially if collected from beaches—they bring a sense of nature and tranquility into the space, evoking the calming atmosphere of the sea. They also provide an opportunity for personal creativity through DIY projects, adding a unique and personal touch to home décor. These natural elements are incredibly versatile and can be easily integrated into various décor styles, from coastal and bohemian to modern, adding an unexpected artistic accent.

Simple ideas for decorating mirrors with shells

Decorating mirrors with sea shells is one of the easiest and most effective ways to add a coastal touch to your home décor. You can transform any simple mirror into a unique art piece that reflects the beauty of marine nature.

Required tools

A mirror with a simple frame (wooden or plastic).
A variety of shells in different sizes and shapes.
A hot glue gun or strong adhesive.
Optional beads or artificial pearls to fill gaps.

Steps

Cleaning and preparation: Make sure the mirror frame and shells are completely clean and dry before starting.
Pre-design: Before gluing anything, arrange the shells around the mirror frame to visualize the final look. It is recommended to place larger shells first, then fill gaps with smaller ones.
Gluing: Use the glue gun to attach the shells one by one to the frame, pressing each for a few seconds to ensure it holds firmly.
Final touches: After attaching the main shells, add finishing details using pearls or very small shells to fill remaining gaps and create a more complete appearance.

Steps to make a shell candle holder

To create a warm and romantic atmosphere in your home, you can make a unique natural candle holder using shells. This method requires few materials and is a great way to reuse large shells you have collected.
Choosing the right shell: Select a large, concave shell stable enough to hold a candle, such as a large oyster shell.
Preparing the wax: Melt raw wax (you can use remnants of old candles) in a double boiler. For fragrance, add a few drops of your favorite essential oils.
Securing the wick: Place the candle wick in the center of the shell and secure it with a small amount of melted wax at the base.
Pouring the wax: Carefully pour the melted wax into the shell around the wick.
Cooling: Let the candle cool and harden completely for several hours. Once dry, you will have a beautiful natural candle holder ready for use.

Decorating flower pots and planters with sea shells

You can give ordinary flower pots and planters a fresh and distinctive look inspired by marine nature. This idea is perfect for adding a decorative touch to your indoor garden or balcony. All you need is a clay or plastic pot, a collection of shells, and strong glue or silicone. Simply clean the pot’s surface thoroughly, then start gluing the shells artistically. You can cover the entire pot or create specific patterns on parts of it.

Ready-made shell home accessories you can buy

If you don’t have enough time to create décor pieces yourself, many ready-made options feature shell art. The market offers a wide range of shell-based home accessories that add natural elegance to any space, including:
Serving trays with shell-inlaid bases.
Tissue boxes and jewelry boxes fully decorated with shells.
Photo frames and mirrors in various designs.
Decorative ornaments and bowls for tables and shelves.
Lighting units and chandeliers made from shell pieces.
See also: Recycling paper to create modern home décor

Outdoor décor for gardens and balconies using shells

You can transform your garden or balcony into a peaceful coastal retreat by adding simple shell accents. Using shell décor in outdoor spaces adds a natural and distinctive character, especially when combined with plants and other elements. Practical ideas include:
Defining garden paths: Use large or crushed shells to outline pathways or surround flower beds, creating a beautiful contrast with soil or grass.
Decorated pots: Glue assorted shells onto ordinary clay or plastic pots to turn them into unique art pieces.
Wind chimes: Create simple wind chimes by tying shells of different sizes onto strong strings and hanging them on the balcony to enjoy their gentle sound in the breeze.

Combining shells with wood in home décor

Combining shells and wood in interior design creates a perfect balance between the warmth of land and the calm of the sea. These natural elements complement each other beautifully: burlap and wood add an earthy warmth, while shells provide a soft shimmer and gentle shine. This harmony appears in items such as wooden serving trays with shell-inlaid handles or wooden boxes decorated with shell patterns. Inlaying wooden furniture—such as tables or chair frames—with small shell pieces is also a refined craft that adds luxury and value to the piece.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I ethically and sustainably obtain shells?

You can collect empty shells from public beaches, ensuring they contain no living organisms. You can also purchase shells from craft stores that source them sustainably without harming marine ecosystems.

How can shells be attached to different surfaces such as glass or fabric?

For glass, transparent silicone adhesive is recommended for its strength and water resistance. For fabric, strong fabric glue can be used, or shells with holes can be sewn on for extra durability, especially for items like cushions or curtains.

Do shells need protection or coating after being used in décor?

To preserve their shine and protect them from scratches or fading over time, you can apply a thin coat of clear varnish (glossy or matte). This is especially useful for pieces that are frequently handled or exposed to moisture.

What is the best way to drill holes in shells for jewelry or hangings?

To drill precise holes without breaking the shell, use a small electric drill (Dremel) with a fine bit designed for hard materials. Start at a low speed and work over a container of water to cool the shell and reduce dust.

Can shells be used in aquariums?

Yes, some types of shells can be used in aquariums, but caution is required. Shells may gradually increase water alkalinity (pH), which may not suit all fish. Boil the shells thoroughly before placing them in the tank to remove bacteria.