Oyster Shell Christmas Ornaments

Hello my friend,

We had a wonderful vacation at the beach 

a couple weeks ago.

While eating at one of of favorite seafood restaurants, 

I wondered what  they did with all those shells at the oyster bar.

I mentioned to my Dad, I'd like a few to paint.

He went to ask and came back with a bunch!

They just throw the shells away-

The restaurant put them in a 'to-go' container.

We left them sealed up tight in the back

 of our truck until we came home.

After we were home, we washed and soaked the shells in

a bleach and water mixture.

Then left out in the sun for a day.

They were so pretty and iridescent-

I noticed their similarities.

To me, each one had a spot that resembled

a nativity manger.

Do you see it ?

I used gold paint along the edges.

Painted legs on the manger.

Drilled a small hole at top of shell

 to hang as an ornament.

I used some gold twine.

I painted a small star shape in gold.

A small circle on top of manger became

the head of baby Jesus.

I painted a halo when the face was dry.

Each one was a little different.

The small shells were slightly flat and

surprisingly lightweight.

                                                 All the other beautiful colors you see are natural!

I painted a thin coat of Mod Podge 

over the painted areas.

The back side is pretty too!

I love how each one is different.

Each has it's own unique color and shape.

I live in an area fairly close to the ocean

 and people love beach theme

Christmas ornaments.

Have a wonderful day!

xo Lisa S

P.S. Two of the shells were too big 

to make into an ornament.

They were a perfect dish shape.

So I decided to decoupage them-

First paint the front side white.

After the paint is dry. Brush some Mod Podge

over the area and cover with

 a single ply napkin or tissue paper.

Press down the tissue and push out any bubbles.

Let dry thoroughly.

Edges are painted gold.

A couple of trinket dishes

A beautiful gift for a friend-

 Thanks for visiting XO !