How to Preserve Sand Dollars

Use sand dollars with holes as pendants for necklaces.

Sand dollars are natural white shells that are circular shaped. The sand dollars you see on the beach are actually the dried out remains of tiny sea creatures. Like starfish, sand dollars have a recognizable star pattern with five points made up of pores. The pores allow sea water to circulate through the sand dollar's body. Sand dollars live underneath shallow water close to the shoreline. Hunt for sand dollar skeletons at low tide and handle them very carefully. After you take the proper steps to preserve your sand dollars, you can use them in jewelry and craft projects.

Things You'll Need

• Bucket
• Fresh water
• Bleach
• Craft glue
• Soft bristled paintbrush

Instructions

1. Fill a bucket with fresh water and gently lower the sand dollar into the bucket. Allow the sand dollar to soak in the water.

2. Monitor the water closely; as it becomes murky and pungent, pour most of the water out and add more fresh water. Repeat until the water remains clear.

3. Drain the bucket completely and combine 2 cups fresh water and 1 cup bleach in the bucket. Submerge the sand dollar in the cleaning solution and wait 15 minutes.

4. Rinse the sand dollar under fresh running water for 10 minutes. Allow the sand dollar to dry completely.

5. Blend equal parts fresh water and craft glue.

6. Apply the glue mixture evenly over the top of the sand dollar with a soft bristled paintbrush carefully.

7. Allow the glue to dry and coat the bottom of the sand dollar with the glue solution. Let it dry completely.

References

• Sea Shells and Such: What are sand dollars?