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.

Next Up

How to Make & Hang a Simple Outdoor Swing

Add a heavy dose of charm to your pergola or porch with this DIY wood-and-rope swinging seat.

How to Make Custom Dog Clothing

Learn how to make simple and stylish custom pet clothing for all sizes.

How to Make Citronella Candles

Keep mosquitoes away this summer with easy, homemade citronella candles.

How to DIY an Antique Mirror Backsplash

If you love the luxurious look of a smoked antique mirror backsplash, but the real thing just isn't in your budget, you'll adore this budget-friendly DIY that looks like a million bucks.

How to Make a Personalized Wall Photo Mural

This printable wall mural makes a bold statement without the need for paint or wallpaper, perfect for apartments and dorm rooms where temporary decor is a must.

How to Make a Recycled T-Shirt Rug

Don't throw away those old T-shirts — they can easily be turned into a one-of-a-kind doormat to decorate the inside of your dorm room.

3 Totally Unique Ways to Make (and Wear) a Corsage

Whether you're headed to prom or dressing up for your best friend's wedding, ditch the basic wrist corsage and pretty-up your ensemble with a gorgeous, DIY flower-decked necklace, ring or trendy arm cuff.

Easy-Sew Food Plushie Keychains

These healthy 'snacks' smile back. Make adorable keychains with scrap felt and a simple sewing technique.

How to Make a Christmas Catnip Toy

Don't forget your furry best friend when making handmade gifts for the holidays. With just basic sewing skills, you can whip up a catnip-filled stocking-shaped toy as a surprise for your favorite kitty.

How to Make Negative-Space String Art

Most string art creates a picture or shape; this technique does the opposite by outlining a silhouette instead. Try this easy and inexpensive craft to add a punch of personality to your walls.

What's New in Handmade

On TV

Follow Us Everywhere

Join the party! Don't miss HGTV in your favorite social media feeds.