How To Decoupage Seashells Using Beautiful Napkins

Ready to explore the magical world of sea shells Decoupage Seashells? This delightful DIY project transforms ordinary sea shells into stunning decor to beautify your space or unique trinket holders perfect for holding your precious little items. By using decoupage paper napkins with vivid ink colors and a touch of Mod Podge, you can create beautiful shells that capture the essence of the ocean.

Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or trying this craft project for the first time, decoupaging sea shells is an exceptional way to create lovely gifts or add a handmade touch to your home decor. In this blog post, we're sharing a step-by-step tutorial on Decoupage Seashells. Let’s dive in and give those plain shells a fabulous makeover!

What you need for Decoupage Seashells:

1. Seashells

2. Paper Napkins with your desired design

3. Glossy Mod Podge or Matte Mod Podge

4. Small paintbrush

5. Scissors

6. Clear acrylic sealer spray (optional)

7. Sandpaper (optional, for smoothing)

How to make Decoupage Seashells:

1. Prepare Your Seashells: Clean the seashells thoroughly to remove any dirt, sand, or debris. Let them dry completely. You can use any type of shell from oyster shells to scallop shells and everything in between!

2. Select and Cut Napkin Design: Choose the section of the napkin you want to use for the decoupage. Carefully cut out the design from the napkin, making sure to trim away any excess paper around the edges of the design. You can also use colorful tissue paper, rice paper, or gold leaf for this step.

3. Apply Mod Podge to the Seashell: Using a small paintbrush, apply a thin layer of Mod Podge or diluted white glue to the area of the seashell where you want to place the napkin.

4. Place the Napkin on the Seashell: Carefully place the cut-out napkin design onto the wet Mod Podge on the seashell. Smooth it out gently with your fingers or a clean, dry paintbrush to remove any wrinkles or air bubbles.

5. Seal the Napkin: Once the napkin is in place, apply another thin layer of Mod Podge or white glue over the top of the napkin to seal it onto the seashell. Make sure to cover the entire surface of the napkin with the adhesive.

6. Allow to Dry: Let the seashell dry completely. This may take a few hours, depending on the thickness of the Mod Podge or glue and the humidity of your environment.

7. Optional: Smooth Edges and Seal: If desired, use sandpaper to gently smooth the edges of the paper where it meets the seashell.

8. Repeat for Additional Shells: Repeat the process for each seashell you want to decoupage with napkins, allowing each one to dry completely before moving on to the next.

9. Display or Use: Once all of your seashells are decorated and dry, you can display them as decorative accents around your home, give them as a lovely gift, or incorporate them into other craft projects. Depending on the shape of your shell, you can also use it as a trinket dish and place small items on the inside of the shell!

10. For added durability, you can spray a clear acrylic sealer over the entire surface of the seashell once the Mod Podge or glue has dried completely. This will help protect the napkin from moisture and wear.

With these steps, you can create beautiful decoupage seashells using napkins with your favorite designs!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Decoupaging SeaShells

• Where can I find supplies for Decoupage Seashells?

  You can pick up all the supplies you need, like craft glue and decoupage paper, at Hobby Lobby. They have a wide selection of crafting materials perfect for this and many other projects.

• What occasions are suitable for gifting decoupaged seashells?

  Decoupaged sea shells make wonderful gifts for special occasions like weddings, anniversaries, or birthdays. They add a personal and artistic touch, making them memorable keepsakes.

• How do I apply craft glue to the Decoupage Seashells without making a mess?

  To apply craft glue neatly, use a small brush and gently spread a thin layer along the edges of the shells and inside of the seashell. This method helps control the amount of glue and ensures a clean, even application.

• How can I make sure the paper sticks to the curved surfaces of the shell?

  Press the decoupage paper firmly against the edges of the shells and the inside of the seashell, smoothing out any air bubbles as you go. This will help the paper adhere better and prevent any peeling or lifting.

If you like using your decoupage seashells as trinket holders, you'll love making this DIY clay trinket bowl too!