Turn your beach finds into summertime candles with this easy DIY Gilded Seashell Candles project! They're perfect for indoor decor or outdoor gatherings!
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You all know that I love a good candle project! Three years ago, I launched this very project as a kit on Darby Smart. Since I'm no longer creating projects for them, I've decided to recreate some of my DS projects here, on the blog, instead. Today, I'm starting with the third project that I launched with them since it's perfect for summer!
I have been collecting beach treasures ever since I was little. I mean, have I told you the story about my sister and I trying to shove a large piece of driftwood into the backseat of my car? Yeah. That happened and it wasn't the first (or last) time I brought an overly large piece of driftwood home! I also enjoy scouring the sand for unique seashells to bring home from our beach visits.
Usually, those seashells become a part of a project or display. But since I've realized how easy it is to make candles out of pretty much anything, I put this little project together. Whether you've found shells on the beach or while wandering around the craft store, this is an easy summer project that you can display inside or outdoors.
SUPPLIES
- 2 Irish Baking Scallops
- Rose gold spray paint
- Microwaveable soy wax
- Glue Dots
- Soy wicks
- Candle scent
- Bamboo skewers
STEPS
- In a well-ventilated area or outside, spray the back of each seashell with a coat of rose gold spray paint. Allow paint to dry.
- Attach a Glue Dot to the bottom of each shell and place a wick on top of each Glue Dot.
- Melt about a cup of soy wax according to directions.
- Add candle scent to the melted wax and stir with a bamboo skewer. I start off with 10 drops of candle scent and increase from there.
- Carefully pour your melted wax into each seashell.
- If wick moves out of place, reposition. Lay bamboo skewers across the top of the shell to keep the wick in place.
- To speed up the drying time of your wax, stick your shells into the fridge until wax is fully hardened (you may need to prop the edges of your shells up to avoid spillage).
- One wax has completely hardened, light the wick and display!
These seashell candles would be great for outdoor parties during the summer! If you're using them for outdoor use, I would suggest spraying them with a clear coat after painting them gold. Also, use citronella essential oil to keep the bugs away! If anything, this project is just another great excuse to hit the beach and collect some shells!
Did you make this DIY Gilded Seashell Candles project? Share it on social media using the hashtag #holokahome. Don’t forget to tag me @holokahome!
I remember this project - I loved it! Such a fun way to use our shells from our beach trips 🙂
Thanks so much!
That is so pretty! We have loads of shells and when I say loads I mean LOADS because shelling is one of our family's favorite hobbies. I've made some cute display jars for some of them, but we have an entire tub of others still waiting for me to do something with them. I'll have to try this with some of the bigger ones!
Thanks so much! I've added some to fairy gardens and put them in an apothecary jar, but the candles were definitely a great DIY for larger shells! I hope you can put some of your bigger shells to good use with this project!
OMG I love this! It's so perfect I'm seeing it now too because we're about to go to the beach and collect seashells!
Awesome! Definitely don't forget to pick up a few of these ocean beauties from your trip!
Turned out so pretty! I love this!
Thank you!
those are SO pretty! Definitely upcycling leftover candle wax to this..I adore costal decor.
That's a great idea! I always forget to upcycle my leftover wax!
This is so cool! Would be perfect for our new backyard!
Awesome! I'm sure they'll look beautiful lit up in your yard!
This is so pretty! What a great way to preserve those beach vacation treasures. 🙂
Thanks! I'm all about finding ways to make vacation last a little longer!
This would be so cool for a beachy bathroom!
Yes! Our bathroom has a nautical theme! I just have to find a place to put them. 🙂
These are so pretty! I love the golden look.
Thank you! I love adding a glam look to my decor with simple golden touches!