A Perfect Spring Break Craft
Photo by Jamie Plain
Spring break is the perfect time for a beach getaway, and what better way to bring home a piece of the ocean than by turning seashells into beautiful works of art? This simple and inexpensive craft allows kids to use their creativity while making unique souvenirs with just a watercolor palette and a handful of beachcombed treasures.
What You’ll Need:
›› Seashells (collected from the beach or purchased from a craft store if you’re staying home this Spring Break)
›› A basic kids’ watercolor paint palette
›› A cup of water – ocean water works just fine!
›› Paintbrushes (a variety of sizes can be fun!)
›› Paper towels for dabbing excess water
›› Optional: Clear craft sealer for preserving the colors
Step-by-Step Instructions:
›› Collect & Clean Your Shells:
After a fun day of beachcombing, rinse your seashells thoroughly in warm water to remove any sand or debris. Let them dry completely before painting.
›› Prepare Your Workspace:
Lay down some newspaper or a disposable tablecloth to keep things mess-free. An old beach towel works well too if you want to paint while actually at the beach! Fill a small cup with water for rinsing brushes between colors.
›› Start Painting!
Using a wet brush, activate the watercolors and begin painting the shells. Encourage kids to experiment with blending colors, making patterns, or painting ocean-inspired designs. The natural grooves and ridges of the shells make for a unique and artistic surface!
›› Let Them Dry:
Place the painted shells on a paper towel and allow them to air dry. Watercolors dry quickly, but you may want to wait at least 15–20 minutes before handling them.
›› Seal for Longevity (Optional)
If you’d like to keep the colors vibrant, a clear craft sealer or Mod Podge can be applied once the paint has dried. This also gives the shells a glossy, polished look. Don’t worry – you could do this once you return home from vacation.
Creative Ideas:
›› String them together to make a beachy garland.
›› Use them as keepsakes or gifts for friends and family.
›› Display them in a glass jar to remember your vacation.
›› Glue them onto picture frames or shadow boxes for a personalized touch.
This easy, fun, and budget-friendly craft is a great way to spark creativity while making special memories from your family’s spring break adventure. So grab a paintbrush, let the sea inspire you, and bring a little piece of the beach home with you!
