This Adorable Coastal-Inspired Decor Doubles as Storage (Perfect for Trinkets!)

If you need a solid use for the shells you picked up at the beach this summer, this mermaid-core-inspired DIY is the perfect way to turn your collection into something both cute and functional.

In a recent TikTok video, user @merevlogs gives viewers a tutorial on how to make a shell jewelry organizer using only one tool: a hot glue gun. 

The rest of the DIY requires only shells. A quick word on picking up these beach treasures: You’ll want to make sure the area you’re in allows shelling (some beaches prohibit it for environmental reasons), and be sure not to accidentally collect shells with any living creatures inside. Many beaches also put a cap on how many shells you may take, so check online before you go to the beach to make sure you know the do’s and don’ts of possible shell collecting.

Before you begin, one commenter suggests soaking your shells with dish soap to remove any residue. Next, you’ll create a base by gluing three larger shells together with the interior of each shell facing upwards. After that, you simply repeat this step, fitting shells together until your jewelry holder is at your preferred length and height. The creator mentions using glue on both the top and bottom of each shell to really solidify every layer.  

You can take this project to the next level with tons of different personalization options. You can add smaller shells, pearls, fake starfish, and other ocean-inspired decals along the sides of your larger seashells. Or some commenters suggest painting the inside of your shells with gold or pink color and a shimmery-white finish to give it a mother-of-pearl look.

Once you’re finished, you can fill the shells with your favorite knickknacks or pieces of jewelry.

Not everyone is big into seashell-collecting, so if you still love this DIY and are looking for a pre-made version of it you can find some chic options available on Etsy.