How to Polish the Exterior of a Large Clam Shell

Large clam shells may not be the most beautiful of the beachcomber's finds, but they can be used in a number of shell crafts, forming the base of shell animals, or functioning on their own as soap dishes or candleholders. Bringing out the color and luster of a clam shell is as simple as properly cleaning it and buffing it with a little mineral oil.

Things You'll Need

• Bucket
• Household chlorine bleach
• Scrub brush
• Scouring powder
• Nutpick or similar metal scraper
• Fine-grit sandpaper
• Mineral oil
• Paintbrush or similar soft brush
• Soft cloth

Instructions

1. Soak the shells in a bucket filled with a mixture of half water and half chlorine bleach for one to two days. This will ensure that all living organisms have been removed from the shells. Thoroughly rinse the shells with clean, warm water.

2. Scrub the shells to remove any deposits that were loosened by the soaking. Use a scrub brush and a little gentle scouring powder such as Bar Keeper's Friend to go over the entire exterior. Use a thin metal scraping tool like a nutpick to remove stubborn deposits. Rinse and dry the shells.

3. Smooth out any remaining rough spots using a very fine-grit sandpaper.

4. Paint on a thin coat of mineral oil and let the shells sit overnight. Wipe off excess oil and buff to a shine with a soft, dry cloth.

References

• "Shell Craft"; Virginie Fowler Elbert