Shellcraft Seashell Magnets
Project 5 – Marblehead Sea Turtle
I call this shellcraft magnet the Marblehead Sea Turtle (like in loggerhead sea turtle). One of my co-workers wasn't interested in the cross magnet but did have a thing for sea turtles. So I tinkered with my seashells and accessories, and came up with this design. An instant hit. To make this "Sea Turtle" pattern seashell project just follow the steps presented below.
Materials you will need:
· a magnet (business card size magnet shown)
· 5 seashells
· 1 marble
· 1 coral piece
· sand (beach sand)
· glue (white all purpose)
· paint brushes (small)
· polyurethane (clear high gloss or semi-gloss liquid)
Your best bet for this seashell project is to use a business card (2 x 3 ½") magnet. If you don't have one handy, they can usually be found in office supply stores. The magnets have a paper backing over a glued surface, just remove the paper backing before using. Use the sticky surface for the design. Of course, you can always use a flat magnet sent to you that has advertising on it.
You will need 5 seashells, 1 large and 4 small, for this seashell project. The seashells shown here are called "Limpet Seashells" and I found them on a beachcombing expedition. The larger seashell should be 2 or 3 times bigger than the small seashells. As you can see, the larger seashell is used as the sea turtle's body. The four smaller seashells are used as the sea turtle's flippers or legs. Use seashells you have on hand. Try a few different types and find some that please you.
The marble is used as the sea turtle's head. I have some small, clear marbles available, so that is what I used. Craft stores usually carry clear marbles that are tinted lightly in various colors: blue, yellow, lavender are some I have seen. Use what you have. In this case, the smaller size marble is best.
The sand and the coral piece will give the illusion that your sea turtle is resting near a reef on the sandy ocean floor.
Now that you have your materials picked out, you can give your seashell project a trial run. Set the seashells on the magnet and position them until you get the sea turtle design look. Watch out for the marble, it has a tendency to roll away.
When you think you have the look you want, move everything to the side. Apply glue to the magnet (you remembered to remove the paper backing, if any?). Spread it around with the paintbrush until the entire surface of the magnet is covered. I use all-purpose glue because I need it to remain wet for a few minutes while placing the shellcraft design on the surface of the magnet. Try not to get drips down the side.
Start this seashell project by placing the body of the sea turtle near the middle of the magnet. Set the flippers in place, one at each corner – narrow side toward the body – facing outward from the sea turtle body. Add a drop of glue just above the body and place the head (marble) in place. All the parts should touch or be real close to touching.
Give the seashells and the marble a quick once over to assure they are in the position you want them to be. You can still move them slightly if they are not to your standards.
Sprinkle sand over the seashell project to cover all exposed glue.
Remove the loose sand by turning the magnet upside-down. If you did the project on a piece of paper, you can easily gather up the loose sand and save it for future shellcraft projects.
Now place a piece of coral at the top of the magnet, over the sea turtle's head. Apply glue right over the sand and put it in place.
To protect your shellcraft magnet, apply polyurethane over the seashells and sand. If you use gloss or semi-gloss polyurethane it will give the seashells and sand a bright and shiny look.
Once the paint is dry, you are ready to enjoy your marblehead sea turtle magnet. Use your pretty miniature seashell project to decorate your home or office. At home you can place it on the refrigerator. If you take it to work, a metal filing cabinet will hold the little bit of art nicely. Anything the magnet is attracted to will do. Make more than one shellcraft magnets - they make great gifts.
the Shellcrafter
Tips
Find a place for your project, where you can leave the magnet undisturbed while the glue dries.
Use paper under the project to help collect loose sand for later use. I use a couple of sheets of newspaper.
Clean the paint brushes as soon as you can after using – the sooner the better – to keep them for future projects.
WARNING!
This project is not recommended for children. The small parts could be possible choking hazards. Direct adult supervision is recommended.
Try Another Project:
Project 1 – Center Focus
Project 2 - Butterfly
Project 3 - Cross
Project 4 - Angel
Project 6 - Tri-Clam
Project 7 - Marblehead Angel
Project 8 - Teddy Bear
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