If you follow me on Instagram then you’ve seen my stories about some oysters we had at home recently. Yes, we shucked them and everything! Well, I shouldn’t say we…Paul did all the work while I sipped on bubbles and encouraged him from the peanut gallery! We have this nice little seafood shop in the neighborhood called Visque Winkel that sells fresh Gillardeau oysters and Paul was up for the challenge of preparing them properly at home. I ordered an oyster knife from Amazon and we were ready to pry the little guys open. I’m so glad he had the idea because our oyster evening was a huge success. Although no pearls were found, Paul got all of them open without a trip to the hospital, and we loved it so much that we went back a second weekend in a row for more. At the end of our oyster feast we had all these really pretty shells leftover and I decided I could make something out of them. Here’s how I made DIY painted oyster shells!

Watch my video how to Reel!

First of all, why should you make DIY painted oyster shells? Simply put, they make great little trinket dishes for all kinds of small beloved objects. They’re also really beautiful. I love the contrast of the pearlescent inside against the rough exterior of the shell. A little gold trim elevates it even further. They make great gifts and can be a fun way to spend a crafty girls’ night or even do it with your kids. (Pin for later!)

8 Ways to Use Your DIY Painted Oyster Shells

1. Keep rings, earrings, and necklaces in a safe or special spot.
2. A catchall for your keys.
3. Display a wine cork from a very special evening.
4. Deposit spare coins.
5. Use as chic salt & pepper holders (add a small gold spoon and this would be gorgeous).
6. Elevate your coffee bar as a spoon rest for your favorite coffee spoon.
7. Create a holder for a small hand soap and instantly elevate your bathroom.
8. Personalize the inside for a creative table setting.

Supplies Needed

This was my first attempt at painting oyster shells but the best part I discovered is that you don’t need much.

-Acrylic clear gloss paint

-Acrylic metallic gold paint (I chose an antique gold color)

-Two small paint brushes 

-Paper plate 

How to Make DIY Painted Oyster Shells 

***Be sure to clean and sterilize your oyster shells and let them dry completely before painting***

1. Squeeze a little of your gold paint onto your paper plate (about a dime size amount). Using one of your paint brushes, dip into the paint and begin painting the inside edge of your oyster shell. Follow the natural curves of the shell all the way around. Repeat on the outer edge of the shell. Let dry for about an hour.
2. Squeeze a little of your clear gloss paint onto your paper plate and use your other paint brush to paint the inside of the oyster shell. Cover the inside of the shell in gloss completely, including the gold painted areas. Let it dry.
3. (Optional) Paint the exterior of your oyster shell with the gloss paint and let dry. You don’t have to do this, but it’s nice if you want a more “finished” look. Otherwise leave the exterior of the shell unpainted to really contrast the rough exterior with the smooth and glossy interior.

You’re done! Now you can display them wherever you like. Nightstands, dressers, coffee tables, bookcases…pretty much anywhere!

Let me know how your DIY painted oyster shells turn out!

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xo – Erin

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