3 Better Ways to Use Your Beach Vacation Finds

Ditch the dreaded basket of shells. 

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Beach vacations have a lot of high points. There's the sun, the body surfing, beers on the beach and, yes, the built-in souveniers. I'm talking about shells, of course. If you're anything like me, you come back from walks on the shore with pockets filled with sand-smoothed rocks, coral, shark's teeth and clam shells. But once you're back home? Those beach baubles have a little less luster, and often end up relegated to a jar or a basket or a box to be stored away or worse -- covered in just. But we can all do better. Check out three of our favorite ways to use these finds post-vacation:  

Succulent Planting in Conch Shell

Succulent Planting in Conch Shell

Pretty and simple, this succulent planting in a conch shell is the perfect way to bring a lively, beachy vibe to your space. 

3 Shell Projects We Love
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Adorable and easy, right? If you're lucky enough to find a conch shell, put it to use by adding some rocks for drainage, a handful of soil and your favorite succulent. (We used echeveria.) 

Make Your Own Travel Souvenir

Make Your Own Travel Souvenir

Never forget your favorite getaway. Bring home your own souvenir by picking up a beautiful shell off the beach and transforming it into a stunning piece of art or jewelry organizer. 

For shells that literally lost their luster post-vacay, bring it back by giving them a coat of metallic gold spray paint. This is perfect for those finds that looked waaaaay prettier under the water. Use a heavy-duty craft glue to attach them to a piece of wood for a nautically-inspired necklace holder. 

Make Your Own Travel Souvenir

Make Your Own Travel Souvenir

Never forget your favorite getaway. Bring home your own souvenir by picking up a beautiful shell off the beach and transforming it into a stunning piece of art. 

The last project is my personal favorite: Seashell specimen art. All you need? A shadowbox-style frame with a mat, and some matching clamshells. Use heavy-duty craft glue to group several smaller shells, or let a few larger sets steal the show. Either way? So. Much. Better. than a basket of shells. 

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