This is another example of a project I came up with in my head that I decided would be a great weekend project to knock out in an hour.  Plus, I had most of the supplies on hand, so I just needed to grab some small canvases the next time I was at Michael’s (which is pretty frequently).

Oyster Shells on Canvas

What you’ll need:

  • 4 oyster shells
  • Gold spray paint
  • 4  4″x6″ canvases
  • Navy blue spray paint
  • Clear sealer
  • Liquid cement or hot glue gun

First things first, you’ll want to paint your oyster shells and canvases.  I laid out a big piece of cardboard, put my oyster shells on one side and spray painted the backs of them gold.  Since the shells are going to be mounted, you’ll want to use some that are similar in size, and that are flatter.

oyster shell canvas 01

On the other side of the cardboard, I laid out my 4 canvases, and spray painted them blue.

oyster shell canvas 02

It took about 3 coats of blue to get the canvases completely covered and to the shade I was looking for.

When the gold was dry on the oysters, I hand painted the edges gold, then sprayed the top with a clear sealer.  Now you’re ready to attach.

oyster shell canvas 03

Get your hot glue gun ready and use it to attach one shell to the middle of a canvas.  Tip: Sit the shell on the table first and see the places where it’s touching the table.  Those are the points that you’ll want to put the hot glue, where it will attach to the canvas.

Put the glue on those points and press it onto the canvas.  I tried to press the canvas and the shell tight in those spots to make sure it was firmly attached.  Repeat for the remaining 3 shells.

Note: You can also use a liquid adhesive like Goop for a sturdier and more permanent hold.

oyster shell canvas 06

When they’re dry, you’ll have a set of 4 oyster shell canvases!
oyster shell canvas 05

You can hang them on your wall as a set of 4, or use them individually in various spots!  The best part of canvas, is that there’s already the lip that the nail can hang on.

oyster shell canvas 04IMG_7126So for about $10 and a little time, you can add a classy, coastal flair to your wall!  Or if you don’t want to go through the hassle of making it yourself, you can find these on my shop!

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