Creating a jeweled oyster shell ornament is a fun and beautiful way to decorate your tree.
When we think of the ocean, we often imagine pristine beaches, crashing waves, and vibrant marine life. But beneath the surface, there lies a world of hidden treasures, and one of nature’s most exquisite creations is the oyster shell. Join me as I show you how to transform a simple oyster shell into a beautiful ornament using pieces of crushed glass and various gems from my collection.
This post is part of the Sustainable Craft Challenge this month, and I’m excited to share my holiday ornament with you. A big thank you to Julie from Sum of Stories for hosting this month’s challenge!
WHAT IS JEWELED OYSTER SHELL
A jeweled oyster shell ornament is a decorative piece created by embellishing a natural oyster shell with a variety of decorative elements, such as gemstones, pearls, and other adornments. These beautifully crafted ornaments are popular for coastal or nautical-themed decor, adding a touch of elegance and charm. They can serve as stunning accents for home decor or be used for special occasions.
The possibilities for embellishing these oyster shells are endless—let your creativity soar!
WHY YOU WILL LOVE JEWELED OYSTER SHELL ORNAMENT
- They make your tree look beautiful.
- Make great gift ideas.
- It’s fun to make.
- It’s pretty easy and economical to make if you have many of the supplies home.
SUPPLIES: JEWELED OYSTER SHELL ORNAMENT
- Oyster shells: I used the 2- 4 inch long oyster shell.
- Small craft jewels or beads and crushed glass.
- Ribbon: Any color ribbon is perfect.
- Craft glue.
- Optional: small decorative accents like tiny seashells, pearls or starfishes
HOW TO MAKE:
Steps 1: Prepare the oyster shell
- Begin by cleaning the oyster shell thoroughly to remove any debris or natural residue.
- If you plan to paint the shell, apply a base coat and allow it to dry completely.
- To create a hanging option, drill a hole at the base of the oyster shell using a drill or Dremel tool.
Steps 2: Design your ornament:
- Plan your design by arranging the craft jewels, beads, or other embellishments on the oyster shell until you’re satisfied with the layout. Feel free to experiment with different patterns and placements before securing them in place.
Steps 3: Glue the jewels:
- Apply craft glue to the back of each jewel or bead, then carefully press them onto the shell, one at a time. Get creative with your arrangement and experiment with different placements.
Steps 4: Add accents:
- For an extra touch, glue on small decorative accents like tiny seashells, pearls, or other embellishments to enhance the overall design.
Steps 5: Let it dry:
- Allow the ornament to dry completely, following the drying instructions provided by the glue to ensure a secure and lasting hold.
Steps 6: Add a hanging loop:
- Attach a ribbon or string to the hole in the shell, creating a loop for easy hanging.
Steps 7: Final touches (optional):
- For added protection and a polished finish, apply a clear sealant or glaze over the jewels. Once everything is dry and secure, your jeweled oyster shell ornament is ready to be displayed. You can hang it as a decorative piece, use it as a unique gift, or incorporate it into your holiday decorations. Enjoy your creative project!
Conclusion
Creating a jeweled oyster shell ornament is a fun and rewarding project that allows you to add a touch of coastal elegance to any space. With a little creativity and some simple materials, you can transform a natural oyster shell into a stunning decorative piece. Whether you’re using it as a unique ornament, a thoughtful gift, or part of your holiday decor, this handcrafted piece is sure to make a beautiful statement. Enjoy the process and let your imagination shine!
