Decoupage shells are a delightful and creative way to transform ordinary shells into beautiful trinket dishes. This easy and enjoyable craft embellishes oyster shells with decorative napkins to create a unique and personalized piece perfect for holding jewelry, keys, or other small treasures.
Let me show you how I transformed plain oyster shells into stunning trinket dishes with the timeless art of decoupage.
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Aren’t they gorgeous?
Can you believe something as simple as a napkin I bought at Walmart transformed these shells?
Let’s dive into this guide to discover the materials, techniques, and tips needed to make these beautiful and functional dishes.
Gather Materials
Gather the following items to complete this DIY project:
- Oyster shells- in this bag from Walmart
- Napkins
- White paint
- Metallic gold paint
- Decoupage
- Scissors
- Paintbrushes– three
- Fingernail file
- Optional bases- wooden candle holder, faux pearls
- Optional-only needed if you use bases- hot glue gun, glue sticks, silicone finger protectors
Steps To Decoupage Shells
Paint
Paint the inside of the oyster shell white to keep the black spot in the center from showing through the napkin.
It took two coats to get complete coverage.
I also painted a couple of small wood candle holders.
When the paint is dry turn over the shells and paint the backside.
Prepare The Napkin
Paper napkins have two or three layers and you only need to use the top decorative one for this project.
Peel the top layer away from the plain white ones.
Examine the napkin and decide what design you like for each shell.
Cut the napkin so it is easier to work with.
Apply the Decoupage
Apply a layer of Mod Podge to the inside of the oyster shell.
Adhere the Napkin
Place the napkin over the shell smoothing out wrinkles and air bubbles.
If I touch the napkin with my fingers to smooth it out, I always tear the napkin.
Instead, I use a dry paintbrush to smooth out the napkin.
Since the shell is curved, you may get a few small wrinkles but don’t let that bother you!
Remove Excess Napkin
Use a nail file to scrape the excess napkin from the oyster shell.
Seal with Decoupage
Apply a layer of Mod Podge to seal the napkin and add shine to the shell.
The shells look fabulous and you can stop here if you want.
But if you’re like me, you’ll want to add a little extra to make them even more special!
Finishing Touches
I think you should consider these optional steps for adding embellishments!
Paint the Edges
Add gold paint around the edge of each oyster shell to beautifully finish it.
Add a Base
If you want to display your shells in a group, consider elevating one or more of them.
I used a small wood candle holder, purchased from Hobby Lobby, to elevate one of my shells.
Then, I hot-glued four faux pearls, purchased from Dollar Tree, to elevate a second shell.
Display your Decoupage Shells
Now it’s time to show off these gorgeous trinket dishes!
I’m using these in our primary bathroom!
They are perfect for holding my jewelry!
Conclusion
Creating decoupage shell trinket dishes is a fun and rewarding craft project that adds a personal touch to your home decor.
Whether you keep them for yourself or gift them to loved ones, these unique and beautiful dishes will bring a smile to anyone’s face.
We hope you feel inspired to try this project and explore your creativity.
Happy crafting!
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Blessings, Donna and Rich
Pin It For Later
Don’t forget to pin this to a Pinterest Board so you’ll know where to find it when needed!
More Coastal DIY Inspiration
Don’t leave yet! We have more DIY inspiration to share with you!
- DIY Seashell Wall Decor
- Nautical DIY Rope Wreath
- DIY Coastal Lantern
- Decorate candles with a Coastal Vibe
Get The Look
Here are the items we used to make this project. If we could not find the exact match, we linked something similar!
Click on the blue links below to get more info on each product.
Shells // Gold and white swirl napkins // Mod Podge // White paint
Gold metallic paint // Paintbrushes // Faux pearls // Wood candleholders
**Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, we will receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. We appreciate your support. (disclosure policy)
Such a pretty craft, Donna!! Love the gold accents and how smart to use pedestals!
Thanks Rachel! I like that they are different heights and can be grouped together!
Lovely Donna! I love the marble napkins you chose and the gold paint edge is the perfect detail. I’ve always wanted to embellish oyster shells and these are beautiful! XO- MaryJo
Hi MaryJo! Thank you so much! These were so fun and easy to make, you really do need to try it!
Oh la la! I love these Donna, and the pearls as feet? Pure genius! I like the candlestick, but the pearls are my favorite. Now I want to give this one a try, stat. You have this way with your crafting that get the wheels turning, and such beautiful ideas. Have a great week my friend!
Hi Cara! I’m so glad you like them! When I was trying to think of ways to elevate them, the pearls seemed like the perfect fit! You have to try them, they’re so fun and easy to make!! Thanks so much!
Absolutely gorgeous! Pinning.
You are so kind! Thanks so much and I hope you will try to make these for your home!
Hi Donna! Love this idea. They turned out so pretty. I am sharing this in my monthly Unboxing post!
So glad you like them Anna! I appreciate you sharing them with your readers! Thanks so much!
I love these Donna. The marble napkin and gold edges make these so beautiful.
I thought both features added an elegant touch to the shells! Thanks so much!