Use seashells as a tool for printing. Depending on the shape of the shell, it may not be recognizable as a seashell but will create interesting patterns and textures. Glue a seashell to a block of wood with the outside of the seashell facing up. Paint the top of the seashell with acrylic paint. Flip the block over and press the seashell onto the paper, moving the block of wood to bring as much of the seashell’s surface in contact with the paper as possible. Print the entire surface of the paper to create a unique seashell pattern. Use different shapes of seashells to make varied prints; experiment on small pieces of paper first to see what types of patterns each seashell makes.
Lay a grouping of seashells onto a piece of paper. Move the seashells around until you have a composition you like. Use a spray bottle to water down paint so it is thin enough to spray. Spray the paper lightly with a layer of paint. Continue adding layers of paint but be careful not to get the paper too wet. When you have the coverage of paint you desire, let the paper dry. Remove the seashells from the paper. The pattern created from leaving the seashells on the paper while painting will be revealed. Do multiple paintings with different arrangements of seashells. The paintings can be framed and grouped together on the wall.
Use seashells you have found to make a collage. Collect a variety of seashells and other objects from the beach. Sand, crab shells, dry seaweed and driftwood are also good items to use in the collage. Take a picture of the location to remember the feeling generated while you are there. You can also collect materials from places near the beach you frequent or have visited, such as restaurants or stores. Cut out the logos from bags or napkins.
Spread glue over a large sheet of masonite board and cover it with sand to make the background of the collage. Arrange the shells and your other collected materials as you would like, and glue them to the board. When the collage is finished and the glue has dried, cover the entire surface with a clear varnish. You will have a wonderful piece of art that will also serve as a memory of your vacation.