Issues → July/August 2011 → Home and Garden →
Craft Project: Seashell Planter
A little ingenuity turns a plain planter into a summery showpiece.
by Bridget Samburg
Here's a way to keep oceanside memories close even when you're landlocked: Create a terra-cotta garden pot paved with seashells. The materials are simple: just the pot, some sanded grout (available at craft stores such as Michaels and A.C. Moore) and hot glue, and the shells.
For that last item, you can scour beaches at low tide, dip into your own collection, or buy a bunch at a craft store or online (large bags go for under $20). Then arrange your shells in either a symmetrical or a random pattern--either way can look beautiful.
For this project, plan on a few hours start to finish, and then let the pot dry for about a day before planting anything in it. Because hot glue dries so quickly, it's the best way to keep shells from slipping before applying the grout; the grout goes last. You might think of using a paint stick to spread it, but ultimately fingertips work best.
Here's how ...
1. Decide on a design and arrange your shells accordingly on the floor or a table. Make sure you have enough shells to cover your pot.
2. Glue the shells to the pot in the pattern you've chosen. Hot glue sets instantly, so you'll need to work fast, but if you make a mistake, just pry the shell off gently and the grout will cover any glue stains.
3. Following manufacturer instructions, gradually add water to the grout powder until it's the consistency of thick mud.
4. Apply the grout, spreading it evenly over the entire pot and pressing it into the crevices to surround each shell fully. Don't worry if some shells are coated with a layer of grout--it'll wash off.
5. Let the grout set about 20 minutes. Then, using a damp rag or towel, gently rub down any rough or bumpy areas; make the entire surface even, with no sharp edges. Gently rub grout off seashells, too.
6. Let the pot set for 24 hours--then plant with flowers, herbs, or a combination for colorful summertime cheer.
YOU'LL NEED:
terra-cotta pot
assorted seashells
hot-glue stick & gun
sanded grout
water
towel or rag
Reader Comments
Comment from Paula Christian on July 12, 2011
I made one for my daughter a few years ago from shells, wampum, and beach glass we had collected on vacations to Westport, MA. Fun project and as you say, memories recalled! I do have a question since it\'s been so long...do you paint the rim of the planter?
Comment from on July 16, 2011
I do not see why you couldn\'t paint the rim. There are terra cotta paints available at your local craft stores.
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