Whether you’re crafting for the holidays, a birthday, or just to say “thinking of you”, these DIY ocean-themed gifts are beautiful and rooted in creativity. Each is perfect for nature lovers, beach wanderers, or anyone who needs a reminder to slow down and enjoy the great outdoors.
1. Shell Candle
Turn large seashells into natural candles that add warmth and a touch of the ocean to any space.
How to Make:
- Melt soy wax flakes in a double boiler
- Stir in essential oil (lavender, eucalyptus, or ocean breeze)
- Pour into clean, dry shells
- Insert wicks and let cool
- Wrap in a small box or cloth for gifting
2. Driftwood Wind Chime
A gentle-sounding wind chime made from beachcombed treasures like driftwood.
How to Make:
- Collect various sizes of driftwood, then drill one hole in the middle of each price
- Use fishing line or twine to tie items at different lengths
- Attach to the driftwood and space them out for balance with beads or sea glass
- Add a loop at the top for hanging
3. Shell Memory Box
Create a memory keepsake using shells, ocean treasures, and even personal snapshots.
How to Make:
- Print and trim a small photo
- Place it in a mini box, ornament, or shell frame
- Add tissue paper, sand, or tiny shells inside
- Seal or decorate with twine and a gift tag
4. Ocean-inspired Artwork
Handmade watercolor or acrylic art with abstract waves, coastal colors, or sea creatures.
How to Make:
- Use canvases or painting paper
- Paint ocean scenes or patterns using blues, whites, and greens
- Add texture with a sponge or sea salt
- Let dry and bundle in sets with ribbon
5. Sea Glass Decor
Keep the beach at home by creating sea glass displays, such as a bikini hanging out on a clothes line.
How to Make:
- Sort sea glass pieces by color
- Hot glue the sea glass onto paper frame
- Draw lines with fine point marker
6. Coastal Cards
Homemade cards with bit of coastal flair.
How to Make:
- Fold a piece of recycled or textured cardstock in half
- Decorate with watercolors, pressed seaweed, or tiny shells
- Write a favorite ocean quote or personal message inside
- Pair with a kraft envelope tied in twine
7. Shell Ornaments
These earthy ornaments use natural materials for coastal holiday decor.
How to Make:
- Collect shells or driftwood pieces
- Modpog napkin pattern with paint brush
- Add gold paint accent around edges
- Tie a loop at the top for hanging on a tree or gift
Summary
These ocean-inspired gifts are fun ways to share memories, creativity, and a love for the sea. Whether you’re crafting with shells from a favorite trip or just leaning into coastal colors, each piece is meant to keep the ocean spirit close all year long. If you try one of these ideas or create your own, we’d love to hear about your ocean-inspired craft.
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