How to Craft Seashells for a Rain Chain

Rain chains are easy to make.

Downspouts work to direct water from your roof to the ground and avoid waterfalls off the side of the roof. A rain chain serves the same purpose. However, unlike a downspout, a rain chain will not become clogged with leaves and adds a more decorative feel than a downspout does. You can purchase rain chains that come in different materials. Or if you prefer, you can make your own chain for little money using sea shells for a unique look.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Sea shells
• Garden chain
• Dremel tool
• Needle-nose pliers
• Drill

Instructions

1. Use a measuring tape to measure the height from your gutter to the ground where you intend to attach your completed rain chain. The rain chain should be attached where the downspout would be and should be about two to three inches off the ground.

2. Determine the number of sea shells and chain links you will need. You can use any type of shell you want; however, bivalve sea shells that are our to five inches in size work best. The chain can be any type of metal garden chain, as long as you can open the links with pliers. You will be alternating the links and the shells, starting with a link and ending with a shell.

3. Make two holes in each sea shell using a Dremel tool. Drill slowly with the Dremel tool so you do not crack the shells. The holes should be large enough to insert a chain link through and you will want one hole on each side of the shell.

4. Open the chain links using needle-nose pliers.

5. Feed the chain links onto the shells alternating one shell and one link until the chain is complete. Close the links as you feed the shells on, using your pliers. Do not close the top chain link.

6. Use a drill to make a hole in your gutter. The hole should be large enough to feed the chain link through and located near where the downspout would be.

7. Insert the chain link through the hole and close it with your pliers to complete your rain chain.

References

• Thrifty Fun: Drilling Holes in Sea Shells
• Sea Shell City: Seashells
• HGTV: Rain Chain Fountain