Upcycled Christmas Wreath: DIY Oyster Shell Decor

Looking for a unique and eco-friendly way to decorate your home with coastal flair? How about adding some upcycled oyster shell decor? This oyster shell wreath is a budget-friendly and easy Christmas DIY project. Let me show you how to upcycle those beautiful shells into a stunning holiday decoration easily.

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How To Make Upcycled Oyster Shell Decor

I love using oyster shells to create coastal decor for our beach cottage. First, oyster shells are free and, once cleaned, have a beautiful finish without any adornment. There are many options for creating beautiful oyster shell decor.

Today’s project includes a unique oyster shell wreath, and I’ll share some other projects at the end of this tutorial.

How To Prepare Oyster Shell for Upcycling

Once you have gathered your oyster shells, it’s important to prepare them to avoid an unpleasant odor.

I immediately add the oyster shells to soapy water and wash thoroughly, ensuring that all oyster meat is removed from the shell. Then, I rinse the shells and transfer them to a bucket filled with 1 part water to 1 part Clorox. I allow the shells to soak for a few hours to remove any odor residue. Then, I rinse and place them on a surface lined with a towel or paper towel. Finally, allow the shells to dry for several days before proceeding.

Supplies

Here are the supplies I used to create the coastal Oyster Shell Wreath.

• White Grapevine Wreath – I used a recycled wreath from a previous wreath project.
• Approximately 8 oyster shells have been prepared for upcycling.
• A few sturdy twigs gathered
• Faux pearl beads
• Faux greenery
• Hot Glue Gun
• E-6000 Glue
• Holiday Ribbon – Green Velvet

How To Add Oyster Shells To Christmas Wreath

Oyster shells are heavy, and you want to ensure they are firmly adhered to the grapevine wreath. I wanted the oyster shell to form a flower-like arrangement on the wreath, so I added some extra support with twigs I gathered in the yard.

Begin by arranging your shells on the wreath as a test run. This will determine where to add the twigs for support.

Once you know the placement, use E-6000 Glue and hot glue to attach the twigs to the wreath. Run the glued end of the twig in between the wreath’s open areas and hold until the hot glue has hardened. The E-6000 will take longer to dry but will add a permanent bond.

Now, you are ready to begin attaching the shells.

Add both types of glue to the backside of the oyster shells, where they will rest on the wreath or twigs. Press them to the wreath and hold until hot glue is set.

Add Faux Pearl and Greenery Embellishments

Once you have all the shells in place, add the faux pearl embellishments. Apply a small amount of hot glue to the centers where the shells meet, then add the pearls.

Finally, use wire snips to cut small pieces of the greenery and attach them with hot glue. Nestle the pieces of greenery around the edges of the oyster shells.

Hang Upcycled Christmas Oyster Shell Wreath

I first tested the wreath on my porch shutter to determine the placement of the wreath hanger. If your grapevine wreath doesn’t have a strong hanger, add one that supports the weight of the oyster shell decor.

Then, I brought the wreath to our beach cottage and hung it on the door. I added the rustic velvet green ribbon for a Christmas Wreath. However, the wreath can be used year-round without a bow or a different color ribbon.

I also tried the wreath inside the cottage and will probably leave it here when we are not in residence. It looks good in combination with the Oyster Shell garland, and it shows up great on the DIY accent wall. Now I’m not sure where to use it.

Do you like it best inside or outside? Maybe I need to make two. LOL

Related Articles

Here are some other oyster shell crafts that you will enjoy.

• DIY Oyster Shell garland
• Napkin Decoupage Oyster Shell Christmas Ornaments
• Oyster Shell Ring Dishes with Napkin Decoupage

Resources

Click the image below for more of my favorite Christmas craft supplies.

Video

Thank you for stopping by, and I look forward to sharing my next adventure with you.