Beachy Projects

Smart Solutions : Episode SSL-1036 -- More Projects »
PHOTO

Sand and paint are all that's needed to create a decorative mirror frame.
Crafter Steven James shares crafty ideas for creating projects that use sand and shells gathered at the beach.

Picture Frame

Materials:

unfinished wood frame with a wide, flat surface
white acrylic paint
large flat box (pizza boxes work great)
sand
shells
white school glue in a squeeze bottle

Steps:


  1. Apply a base coat of white acrylic paint to the frame.

  2. While the paint is still wet, place the frame over the flat box filled with sand and shells.
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Figure A
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Figure B
  • Sprinkle sand on the wet paint, using a shell for a scoop (figure A). Work quickly. The sand will adhere to the wet paint and dry in place.

  • Use the school glue to make bold designs in the surface of the sand (figure B).

  • Carry the frame back to the sandbox and sprinkle sand on the glue. The glue will darken the sand.

  • You can glue shells on for added embellishment, if desired.
  • PHOTO

    Any shape candleholder can be decorated with seashells and liquid leading.
    Votive Holder

    Materials:

    clear glass votive holder
    wide, flat box
    sand
    white school glue
    shells
    simulated liquid leading (available at a craft store)

    Steps:


    1. Place the votive holder in a wide, flat box filled with sand. The sand will support the votive holder while you work.

    2. Squirt white school glue in the desired spot on the holder and attach a shell. Let it dry and apply another shell, until the holder is covered with shells.
    PHOTO

    Figure C
  • Squeeze the liquid leading around each shell to fill in the empty spaces (figure C). While the leading is still wet, sprinkle heavily with sand and tap off the excess.

  • Let the holders dry 72 hours before using with a candle.
  • Guests
    Steven James
    San Francisco, CA
    Phone: 415-337-5367
    E-mail: stevenjames@macaroniandglitter.com
    Website: www.macaroniandglitter.com
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