Anyone who's ever had a son or daughter with a dorm room knows that stringed lantern lights are all the rage. But don't go running out to Target yet! Whether you want to catch on to the lantern light craze or just love a nautical theme, we have a great way for you to put your glue gun to use and get creative with the shell collection that's gathering dust in the glass bowl on your coffee table. Nautical themes are classic and classy, so why not invoke your beach combing theme in a charming new way? Learn how to make your very own ultra-classy scallop shell lights using your faithful glue gun. This glue gun project is so elegant and lovely; it was even featured on the Martha Stewart show.
Here's how to do it at home. You will need:
- glue gun and hot glue
- a selection of scallop seashells
- decorator light string
- baby oil or acrylic spray
- a safety blade or craft knife
Next, gather your selected seashells together and give them a thorough cleaning. You can wash them by hand if you like, but most of these shells are so resilient they can even be washed in the dishwasher (no soap needed). While it is running, plug in your cordless glue gun for charging and get ready to work.
Once the shells are dry, you can rub the outsides with baby oil to bring out the shell's beautiful distinctive colors. The downside of this treatment is that baby oil attracts dust, and sometimes glue guns cannot adhere to baby oil coated objects. You can also spray the shells with acrylic spray in glossy finish for extra shine.
Now that you have your shells looking pretty, pair them off and begin stringing the light wire through the shells, making sure the lights land in the little shell alcoves. Now it’s time to grab your glue gun. Lift up one shell and use the glue gun to spread a generous amount of glue over and around the wire, attaching the wire at the base where the two shells meet. Close the shell and hold it while the glue gun works its magic. If you feel the glue gun isn't providing a satisfactory seal, the baby oil could be the problem. If this happens, try using epoxy or E6000 and then clamp the shells with rubber bands until they dry, the glue gun lovers at "Wild With A Glue Gun" suggest.
Notes: Make sure to keep your glue gun handy after the first application, as some shells may have to be glued more than once to stick. Also, don’t aim for perfect unity. The seashells probably won't clasp as perfectly as they did before, but with proper glue gun application they will stay secure and look attractive.
To finish this fun glue gun project, form a loop with your wire that threads through the last pair of shells for a festive finish.
Glue guns such as the ColdHeat glue gun are known for flawless application, but if you do get a glob of glue here or there, just use your craft knife to trim them off.
Why sell seashells by the seashore when you could create this gorgeous scalloped shell light string in the comfort of your home? Get great use out of your glue gun with this enjoyable project!
Project idea taken from: Wild With A Glue Gun by Kitty Harmon and Christine Stickler
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