How to make a unique seashell mirror

Making seashell mirrors has to be one of my favorite things to do. Each piece is unique and one of a kind, no two are alike. The whole process from the beginning to the end is so calming and therapeutic. These days we can use projects that gives us some tranquility. Today I want to show you how to make a unique seashell mirror incorporating shells found on the beach and also store-bought shells.

One of the pastimes I cherish the most is walking along the beach searching for seashell treasures and sea glass, of course as long as the weather permits.

I am a self-proclaimed shell fanatic. I love the different shapes and colors of these beautiful gifts from the ocean.

If you love the beach like I do, including seashell encrusted mirror as part of your unique home decor will remind you of the seaside every time you see it. Mirrors surrounded by beautiful unique shells from the ocean always lifts my spirits.

Collect and Clean Seashells to make the seashell mirror

When I use shells I have collected from the beach, I soak them in a plastic container one part water and one part bleach. It soak for about an hour then rinse thoroughly and allow to dry. This will get any fishy smell out and any kind of residue lurking inside the shell.

If you are using store-bought seashells be sure to get a variety of sizes. Make sure to have enough to cover the entire frame. These shells can be purchased in bulk here or in most craft stores.

Supplies needed:

• 24″ X 24″ plywood or any size you prefer to cut to size. You can also use a store-bought mirror with a wide flat frame
• Mirror glue if using the plywood method
• Black felt fabric
• Mirror hanger
• Industrial strength hot glue or E6000 glue
• Spray adhesive
• Round mirror
• white spray paint
• Variety of seashells in different sizes and colors of choice
• Spray sealer

If you are using a store-bought mirror I would suggest purchasing one with at least a 2″ frame so that you can have room for the shells to adhere to. It is also best to sand down the frame so that the paint and the shells have a rough surface to grab onto.

How to make the seashell mirror:

You can skip some of the steps if you are using a store-bought mirror.

1. Start off with a 24″ X 24″ X 1/2″ piece of plywood
2. Cover the entire mirror with painter’s tape and paper. In order to avoid scraping glue and paint off the mirror later.
3. Spray the plywood or the store-bought mirror frame with white paint
4. After the paint is dried, spray the back of the plywood with spray adhesive and carefully attach the black felt fabric to the back. This will protect the wall and also look professional
5. Install the mirror hanger on the back
6. locate the center of the board…put mirror glue to the back of the mirror and place it down on the center of the board.
7. Place the shells on the frame before gluing to get an idea of the placement.
8. Start with larger shells first, then fill in with smaller shells.
9. Move shells around till you are satisfied with the look
10. Glue the shells into place.
11. Clean all the glue webbing with a soft brush
12. Take your time and enjoy the process!
13. Finally, cover the mirror, spray the frame with two coats of sealant, and dry.

You can use this method on picture frames also. You would have to purchase a picture frame that has a flat surface to adhere to the shells.

Placing each unique seashell in the right spot to create the mirror is really a fun, creative process.

And here it is, seashell encrusted mirror with beautiful shells, I love it!  

Hang your unique seashell mirror and admire your beautiful creation for years to come!

I genuinely love this one-of-a-kind piece, it adds such a “coastal style” to our home!

Here are a few more beautiful works of art mirrors using seashells…

If you like to see some of my other projects you can see them here and here.

You can also use these treasures from the ocean to create beautiful accents for your home. You can see some other great projects here and here.

Thank you so much for stopping by!