How to Make a Seashell Mirror

Give a plain mirror coastal charm by covering the frame in shells gathered on the shore.
Seashell Mirror and White Pitcher

Seashell Mirror With Coordinating Accessories

A seashell framed mirror hangs above a small wood table, which holds a cream milk pitcher, green plant, a pair of old books, and a large conch shell.

Materials Needed:

  • framed mirror
  • hot glue gun and glue sticks
  • seashells
  • stiff paintbrush
  • straight razor
  • window cleaner
  • cloth or paper towel

Collect and Clean Seashells

If shells were collected from the beach, rinse thoroughly and allow to dry. If you aren't planning a trip to the coast, shells can be purchased at craft stores. Make sure to have enough small and medium sized shells to cover the entire mirror frame.

Shell Pile

Shell Pile

Attach Shells

Preheat hot glue gun. Working from inside of mirror frame, apply glue in small sections and press shells into hot glue (Image 1). Hold in place until glue cools (Image 2). Shells can be placed at random or in a pattern (Image 3).

Cover Entire Frame

Continue to apply glue in small sections, pressing various sized shells into glue. Use small shells to fill in gaps between larger ones. Save large, decorative shells to apply last, so they will be most visible. Tip: A flat frame provides a smoother gluing surface for shells, but a decorative frame will give a fuller look.

Arranging Bigger Shells

Arranging Bigger Shells

Clean Frame and Mirror

Glue guns tend to leave strings of glue behind. To remove these, gently sweep them off using a stiff paint brush (Image 1). Use a straight razor to remove glue from mirror surface (Image 2). Wipe down mirror with window cleaner and hang.

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