This DIY seashell wind chimes craft is a delightful and colorful project for summer and beyond.
It’s a perfect hands-on activity that blends creativity, nature, and a whole lot of fun. With just a few simple supplies, you can create a homemade decoration that’s beautiful and meaningful. Hang it in your homeschool space, use as a gift, or let it jingle outside in the breeze.
I’m sharing tips for making and creative ideas for enjoying. Use the step-by-step instructions plus pictures to make a custom wind chime that tinkles with shells.
Creative Seashell Project Kids Love
Looking for a cool way to use the shells you collect on the beach? Maybe you’re planning a beach theme for summer camp? Perhaps you need a screen-free activity for your kids to work on and enjoy?
Well, this DIY seashell wind chimes craft is perfect for all of those things and more!
A trip to the shore turns my boys and me into treasure hunters looking for all sorts of amazing seashells. We like to find a variety of shells in different colors, shapes, and textures.
One of our favorite parts is choosing our favorites to take home. It’s tough to narrow it down, but we end up with a collection that’s special to each of us. The rest get returned to the beach for other families to discover and enjoy which feels like a little act of beach kindness.
Once we’re home, I love finding creative ways to use our seashells. This DIY seashell wind chime is one of our favorite crafts for summer homeschool fun. We’ve hung them around our home and used as gifts for friends and family.
What You’ll Need for This Seashell Wind Chimes Project
Whether you’ve got a stash of shells from your latest beach trip or picked up some at the store, this project is a sensational way to turn those treasures into a delight. It’s easy to customize and makes a lovely decoration or gift.
Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- Clean seashells
- Acrylic paint and paintbrushes
- Drill with a small bit
- Driftwood or a sturdy stick
- Twine, natural string, or yarn
- Hot glue gun and glue sticks
- Scissors
If you’d like to simplify this project, you can use a nail with small hammer (or try this hack that uses a thumbtack or scissors) to carefully tap the holes into the seashells. I recommend checking if your shell already has a hole because you can just use that.
Also, if you’d rather not drill holes into the wood, we’ve had success wrapping the yarn (or twine) several times around the stick. You will need longer pieces of string but it cuts out the step of drilling.
- Use colorful yarn or embroidery thread instead of twine for a pop of color.
- Want to skip the glue? Wrap the twine through any natural holes in the shells and around the wood.
- No paint? Markers or dot markers can work great on seashells, too!
- Add beads or buttons in between shells for an extra fun touch.
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How to Make Your DIY Seashell Wind Chimes
Prepare the seashells
Gently wash the seashells to remove any sand or dirt. Let them dry completely. Using a small drill bit, carefully drill a small hole near the top edge of each shell. Work slowly to prevent cracking.
Lay out your seashells and paint them with acrylic paints in bright, cheerful colors.
Prepare the hanger
Drill holes into the driftwood (if using this step).
Attach the hanging strings. Cut lengths of twine for the vertical hanging strands. Thread each piece of twine up through the holes in the driftwood and tie a knot to secure. Add a dab of hot glue on each knot to hold them firmly in place.
Cut another piece of twine and thread each end through the holes at either end of the driftwood. Tie knots and secure with glue. This will be your hanger.
Attach the Seashells
Thread the painted seashells onto the twine strands. Space them out as you like. Once in place, add a small drop of hot glue behind each shell to keep it from sliding.
Frequently Asked Questions About Making Shell Wind Chimes
Nope! You can use a small nail and hammer to carefully tap holes into the shells. Or skip the holes altogether and use hot glue or tacky glue to attach the shells to the twine.
No worries! You can find seashells at most craft stores or online. This craft is a great way to bring beach vibes to your home no matter where you live.
Absolutely! A sturdy stick, wooden dowel, or even a coat hanger will work. Get creative with what you have on hand.
Creative Ideas for Using Your Shell Project
These shell wind chimes are more than just a pretty craft. You can really use them in a variety of ways. Here are some interesting ways to enjoy and use your finished creation:
- Hang on a porch, balcony, or patio
- Display in your homeschool space or classroom
- Create a calming corner or spot
- Use as a homemade gift
- Use with summer learning themes
- Add a memory or keepsake element: Write the date, name, place of your vacation, etc.
Have Even More Seashell Fun with Kids
Got more seashells? Or just want to extend the seashell fun? Try these activities and resources that you can find on Rock Your Homeschool:
- Tie dye seashells activity
- Seashell scavenger hunt (free printable)
- Seashell playdough invitation (with free printable mats)
- Free printable seashell coloring pages
- Seashell activities pack
Do you have any questions for me about making this DIY seashell wind chimes craft for kids? And what are your ideas for using? Please share in the comments area at the bo
