If your family ever spends warm days lounging on the beach, then chances are you collected quite a few shells during your vairous visits. As much as we want to clear the clutter and toss them out, our kids beg to keep them around "just a little longer." Instead of arguing, why not compromise and use the seashells in a craft project or two? Check out 11 ways to turn your Summertime treasures into yearlong works of art.
Sources: Alphamom [1], Beach Comber [2], and Let's Do Something Crafty [3]
Colorful Collection
Since many of these projects require painted shells, we suggest trying this paintbrush-free method [4] from Rainy Day Mum.
Source: Rainy Day Mum [5]
Cutest Crab
If your tots didn't get a chance to hunt for crabs this season, they can still get in on the crustacean fun [6], thanks to Kleas Typepad.
Source: Kleas Typepad [7]
Underwater Mosaic
Gather the shells, sea glass, and any other beach finds to make Alpha Mom's Summer-themed tiles. [8]
Source: Alphamom [9]
Shell-Covered Letter
Make your child's room feel like paradise with an ocean-inspired monogram. All you need is a wooden letter, some shells, and a hot glue gun.
Source: Beach Comber [10]
A Turtle's Home
This pet project [11] from the Chirping Moms is one step up from the Pet Rock.
Source: The Chirping Moms [12]
Shelly Accessories
Your daughter will feel like a real beach beauty after creating Polka Dot Chair's headband, earrings, and more! [13]
Source: Polka Dot Chair [14]
Beach Bums
Trade the swimsuit-clad Barbie for these Summer dolls [15] from Let's Do Something Crafty.
Source: Let's Do Something Crafty [16]
Sea Imprints
Clear some of the clutter by making the Imagination Tree's shell fossils [17] and tossing out the real ones.
Source: The Imagination Tree [18]
School of Fish
With a little help from Crafts by Amanda, your child can create an entire ocean [19].
Source: Crafts by Amanda [20]
Mirror, Mirror
Add a little fun to their morning routine with Crazy Little Projects' seashell mirror [21].
Source: Crazy Little Projects [22]
Beach Love
Let your little ones show off their love for all things Summer with Hoppin' Up's shell-filled hearts [23].
Source: Hoppin' Up [24]