Welcome to Let’s Shellabrate!
DIY Shell Craft Kit Instructions
Welcome to Let’s Shellabrate! Everything you need to create beautiful decoupaged shells is right inside your kit. Follow these simple steps, take your time, and have fun creating!
Skill Level: Beginner-Friendly - no experience required
Est. Crafting Time: 30 – 45 mins per shell, plus drying time.
Recommended Age: Teens & Adults
Before you begin, you will need: scissors, a small cup of water, a small disposable plate, and a well-lit, protected work surface,
Tip: Read through all instructions before you begin. For the best result, do not rush any of the steps.
Need a little inspiration? Visit lets-shellabrate.com to explore finished shell ideas.
What’s Included in Your Kit: Prepped shells, Decorative designs, Mod Podge adhesive, Paintbrush, Parchment paper, & Paint Pen.
Let’s Get Started!
1) Prepare your space by unboxing your kit. Place the parchment paper on your work surface with a shell on top to protect your table. Choose a design.
2) Place your selected design over the inside of the shell, turning and moving it until you are happy with the placement. Using your scissors, carefully cut around the design, leaving a small border if desired.
Tip: Every shell is naturally unique; positioning will vary.
3) Place the design to the side for a moment while you prep the shell. Open the Mod Podge and pour a dime-sized amount onto your plate, then close the lid.
4) Using your paintbrush, apply a THIN, even layer of Mod Podge to the area of the shell where you will place the design.
Tip: A little goes a long way. Excess Mod Podge can cause the design to wrinkle.
5) Carefully place the design onto the shell in the desired position. Starting in the center, gently smooth outward toward the edges using your fingertips, allowing the design to follow the shell’s natural curves. Work slowly to prevent the design from tearing.
6) Once the design is in place, set your shell aside and allow the Mod Podge underneath to fully dry. Clean your paintbrush thoroughly in water and set it aside to dry.
Tip: This will take approximately 30–45 mins. Set a timer. Enjoy your favorite beverage while you wait.
7) Once the design is fully dry, pour a dime-sized amount of Mod Podge onto your disposable plate, adding more if needed. Reseal the bottle. Using your clean paintbrush, apply a THIN, even layer of Mod Podge over the design and the inside surface of the shell.
Tip: The Mod Podge may look white or cloudy when first applied. This is normal. It will dry clear.
8) Set your shell aside and allow the topcoat of Mod Podge to dry completely, until it is clear and no longer feels tacky. Clean your paintbrush thoroughly in water and set it aside to dry.
Tip: This will take approximately 30–45 mins.
9) Once the Mod Podge is completely dry, it’s time for the finishing touch. Take your paint pen and shake it thoroughly with the cap on. Press the tip on the parchment paper a few times to begin the flow. The chisel tip allows you to control the thickness. Carefully apply a thin layer of paint to the rim of the shell, working slowly until you achieve the desired look.
Allow the paint to dry for 20–30 minutes before handling your finished shell.
You Did It! Your handcrafted shell is complete! Each shell is naturally unique, so no two creations will ever be exactly alike. We hope you love what you’ve created.