By Monica Ewing, Sunset senior designer
I have two collections: postcards and seashells. I haven’t thought of a good way to display the postcards yet (suggestions welcome!), but I came up with two seashell solutions that work for me. Here’s how I did it…
1. Seashell candlescape
Making seashell candles is not a new idea, but they’re a rickety container ill suited for holding an open flame. Inspired by Zen sand gardens, I thought of a solution. Placed in sand, the seashell candles would be stable. Plus, it’s a beautiful and easy way to display them.
Step 1 Gather supplies
First, I needed a shallow box or tray to hold the sand. I found this stained black wooden tray at Pier 1 a couple years ago. Next, I bought a bag of sand, pouring container, and candle thermometer at Michael's. Finally I bought a bag of tea lights at Ikea.
Step 2 Make the candles
First I dumped the sand into a disposable pie plate and placed the seashells level on the sand. Then I removed the trays and wicks from several of the tea lights and deposited the wax in the pouring container, which I had put in a pot of boiling water. Next I clipped the thermometer to the inside, and watched the wax melt. The wax became transparent and ready to pour at about 160 degrees. After filling each of the seashells, I waited a few minutes before placing the wicks in the bottom of the shells. In about half an hour, the wax had hardened and developed a well around the wick. It was time for the second pour. I reheated the wax, filled the wells, and let them cool.
Tip #1 Keep your wax between 160 and 180 degrees for pouring.
Tip #2 Don’t use your display container when pouring the wax. You don’t want to dribble—and you will—on your nice container.
All I had left to do was transfer the sand to the wooden tray, place the candles, and light them. I’d say gazing at a glowing seashell candlescape is more relaxing than raking a Zen sand garden.
2. Seashell shadow box
I love this solution because I can see each individual shell—plus I never have to dust them. I found an unfinished pine shadow box on eBay. I applied a polyurethane varnish (to protect it from moisture in my bathroom, where it now hangs), then nailed two picture hangers to the back of it. Next, I hot glued the shells in place. Finally, I assembled the box, glued it shut with wood glue, and hung it on the wall.
Now, if I can only find a great way to display postcards…
Next week: An oversized clock.
