Mussel Shell Crafts

The mussel shells from this pasta dish can be transformed into amazing crafts.

Mussels are a type of edible, bivalve mollusk that lives in both saltwater and freshwater. They are recognized for their characteristically shiny, black shells. Seafood eaters normally toss these shells in the garbage after a meal, however, the shells could be better used in decorative and functional crafts.

Mussel Candles

Gather 10 or more mussel shells. Wash them together to remove any food debris. Purchase a container or craft candle wax or candle gel, a container of wax-coloring agent, a bottle of candle fragrance oil and a package of candle wicks; you can purchase all of these items at a craft store. Prepare the wax or gel according to package directions. Add color and fragrance according to directions. Pour some gel or wax into each shell and add a candle wick.

Mussel Shell Wreath

Collect 80 or more mussel shell halves and wash them thoroughly. Purchase a 10-inch diameter wire wreath form and a glue gun with 100 glue sticks from a craft supply store. Glue shell halves in overlapping rows onto the wire frame, completely covering the frame. You can glue the shells on with the shiny, black side facing up or the white, interior facing up -- the choice is yours. Hang this unique wreath on your front door or place it on the mantelpiece above your fireplace.

Mussel Shell Figurines

You will need to be a bit creative for this project. Find and clean as many mussel shells and other types of shells as you can find. Using a glue gun, you will be hot-gluing the shells together to create tiny figurines. For example, you can make a penguin by gluing a long, thin white shell on top of one mussel shell half, then gluing two tiny shells to the bottom of the mussel shell as penguin flippers. Make a mussel shell beetle by gluing two mussel shells, shiny-side up onto a large, light colored shell. Position the shells at an angle to create a V-shape, like beetle wings. Use you imagination to make as many other figures as you want.

Mussel Shell Picture Frame and Adornments

Purchase a plain, wooden picture frame from a craft store. Glue clean mussel shells shiny-side up along the border of the frame. Place a picture of a recent beach trip inside of the frame to complete the beach/ocean theme. You can also glue mussel shells along the rims of flower pots and on other household fixtures, such as light switch covers.

References

• "Shell Chic: The Ultimate Guide to Decorating Your Home With Seashells"; Marlene Hurley Marshall and Sabine Vollmer Von Falken; 2002