Sea Shell Treasure Box

©Michele Emerson-Roberts 2015

I have fond memories of playing on the beach as a small child when we lived in Southern California. Life was simpler back then, less stress and worry! I long to go back to those days and be able show our grandkids what life was like back then. I have created a “treasure” box for each of them as a reminder of lazy summer days spent at the beach.

Supplies:

• Any of the Arnold Grummer™ paper making kits
• AG Cotton Press sea shell mold
• A sunny window, microwave or heat gun
• Blender, cello sponges and soft towels
• Beacon  QuickGrip™ Adhesive
• Scraps of white paper (think junk mail, left over cardstock scrap, etc.)
• Hexagon paper Mache box approx. 4 ½”
• Silver metallic and medium blue pearl acrylic paint
• Small flat paint brush, 1” foam brush
• Sea sponge
• Numerous sizes of white and blue pearl beads
• Wired tiny white pearl beads

Instructions:

1. Follow the directions found in any of the Arnold Grummer™ paper making kits to create white slurry.
2. Cast two sea shells.  (I often create multiple castings to use for later projects.)
3. When the castings are dry, use the flat brush and blue pearl paint to add some color to the sea shells.
4. Set aside to dry.
5. Use the foam brush to paint the box with blue pearl paint.
6. When the box is dry, use the sponge to randomly apply silver metallic paint.
7. Set the box aside to allow the paint to dry.
8. Use the QuickGrip™ adhesive to attach the two sea shell casting onto the lid of the box, slightly overlapping the shells.
9. Arrange and attach the pearl beads and wired pearls.

Enjoy the memories.