Uses for Oyster Shells

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If you've ever visited the beach, you probably know how easy it is to bring back a few seashells as mementos of your vacation. These shells usually get thrown in a box and forgotten, left crumbling away in the back of a closet. On a recent trip to Ireland, I found a few oyster shells and was determined to find a use for them when I got back home. After a quick DIY with some liquid gold leaf paint, I found three different uses for the beautiful oyster shells that I found.

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Image Credit: Shannon Smith

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Things You'll Need

  • Oyster shells (or shells of any kind)

  • Gilding paint in the color of your choice

  • Soft bristled paint brush

  • Food-safe sealant spray (optional)

Image Credit: Shannon Smith

Step 1

Dip the brush in the paint and brush on the shell in the same direction. You won't need much paint on the brush -- a little bit goes a long way!

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Image Credit: Shannon Smith

Step 2

Let paint dry for at least three hours before handling. If you're using the shells to hold food items like I did, seal the shells with a food-safe spray. When it's dry, you'll have gorgeous gilded oyster shells!

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Image Credit: Shannon Smith

I came up with three different ways to use these shells, but the possibilities are endless! Here are my three favorite uses for painted oyster shells.

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1. Jewelry Holders

Image Credit: Shannon Smith
Image Credit: Shannon Smith
Image Credit: Shannon Smith

These small shells make the perfect dish for holding earrings, rings, or other delicate pieces of jewelry.

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Tip

Place a shell by the sink to hold your rings while you wash your hands or do dishes!

2. Desk Organizers

Image Credit: Shannon Smith
Image Credit: Shannon Smith
Image Credit: Shannon Smith

Use the shells to hold small office supplies, like push pins, paper clips, or binder clips. They add a little bit of glam, while also being functional!

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3. Salt and Pepper Holders

Image Credit: Shannon Smith
Image Credit: Shannon Smith

Set the table with these gilded salt and pepper holders, and let your guests help themselves to their own pinch of salt!

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The possibilities are endless with this project, and the same technique can be applied to other shells as well! With just a few steps, you can have some gilded memories of your own.

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