How To Make A Seashell Mirror

Seashell mirrors are so expensive when you buy them retail.  The large seashell mirrors often sell for $1000.00 and up in high end stores.  I have found some in the $400.00/$500.00 range that are beautiful too.  I  refuse to even pay $200.00 for one when I have a huge plastic bin full of seashells downstairs begging to be used.
Being a do-it-yourself kind of girl, I decided to make my own. 
I protected my dining room table and starting sorting, cleaning, and gluing on shells. We only eat in the dining room on holidays so it wasn’t in the way.
I could have finished it in a couple of days if I had worked full days.  I chose to do a little here and there…when I was in the mood.  This way,  it took me the better part of two weeks. 

My big 36” seashell mirror took me a long time to make, but it’s up and I like it!

I found this round mirror on the 75% off aisle at Hobby Lobby.

($18.00 – that’s my bargain find for this weeks parties)

It doesn’t show in the photo, but it had a large hole in it.

I filled it in with newspaper dipped in Elmer's glue.  It worked like a charm.

Next, I spray primed it.   The mirror glass was glued in so I couldn’t remove it.

You can see another smaller hole on the upper left edge that I didn’t bother to fill in.

First, I glued small shells on the outer rim.  (I used E-6000 glue)

Then, I added larger seashells,  trying to keep each side similar as I went.

After the shells were attached, I made a concoction of decorative sand, white acrylic paint, and Elmer’s glue.

I used a  paint brush to pounce this thick mixture between the tiny shells on the outer rim.

I put the back on and added heavy weight hanger wire.

The seashell mirror called for a complete mantel top makeover. 

I am going to share that later this week.

I had soooo much fun doing it!!

 

HINT:  It includes more seashells, old wood, some glass, and horns!

I am joining Sunday Showcase Party at “Under The Table and Dreaming”…

Met Monday party at “Between Naps on the Porch”…

Today’s Thrifty Treasure party at “Southern Hospitality”…

Nifty Thrifty Tuesdays at “Coastal Charm”…

White Wednesday at “Faded Charm”

Don’t forget to check back later for the mantel reveal.
Rhonda