Photos are a great way to preserve great memories. However, they must have a decent framing. An original option will be a craft frame decorated with seashells, which you can make yourself.
How to decorate a photo frame with shells?
To create a photo frame decorated with seashells, you will need several types of seashells, glue and the frame itself. Also, the creative process allows the use of additional decorations. This refers to various beads, stones, sand, beads, crystals, corals, wood twigs, and sequins. In addition, you will definitely need a special varnish to cover the already finished shells frame with it.
It is recommended to start the design of the frame with the preparation of the working material. The shells should be thoroughly washed with cold running water and dried. Some craftswomen use water with the addition of lemon juice for washing. Then, be sure to sort all the shells by color, size, and type. After that, make a pattern out of them without using glue. Just lay them out in a specific order on the surface of the frame. For example, you can first spread out large shells, and fill in the gaps with small ones. Do not start gluing until you have created a beautiful pattern that you like.
The process of gluing shells to the frame
First, decide if the shells will stick to the frame or also to the glass. If you do not plan to touch the glass, stick paper tape along the border of the glass. This is necessary in order not to stain the glass with glue.
Hot glue should be used to secure the shells to the base. Gently apply a few drops to the surface of the shell and press firmly against the frame. Hold this for a few seconds. The process of securing shells should be carried out when the frame is in a horizontal position. It is better to start gluing with large shells, and you can finish with additional materials.
Be sure to wait until the glue is completely dry and proceed to the final step. Carefully varnish the shells. The fact is that dry shells have a completely unattractive, pale appearance. The varnish creates a real "wet" effect, which can only be contemplated by seashells on the beach. For such purposes, a shiny acrylic varnish is ideal. You can also use regular pearlescent nail polish to give the shells the desired hue. But matte acrylic varnish in this case is definitely not useful, since it does not give any "wet" effect. When the varnish is completely dry, you can insert the photo you have chosen into the frame.
