How to Make Oyster Shell Ring Dishes

I had the pleasure of spending the Fourth of July week in Cape Cod - a dreamy northeast oasis full of cotton candy sunsets, buttery lobster rolls, and oysters galore. As my friends and I walked the beach at low tide, I couldn't help but collect beautifully vacant oyster shells. As a craft-seeking hobbyist, I knew there had to be a creative way to repurpose these. And sure enough, there was.

These oyster shell ring dishes are the perfect handmade trinket to add to your nightstand. You can customize them with practically any design, and they are SO easy to make. Perfect for gifting or keeping your bling organized with a touch of coastal charm.

What You’ll Need:

Oyster shells (cleaned and dried)
- You can get on Amazon if you're not by a beach!
Gold metallic paint
Mod Podge
Small paint brushes
White acrylic paint
Decorative napkins
- Some of my favorites:

Step 1: Gather and Clean Shells

First, you'll need to make sure your oyster shells are clean and dry. If you collected them yourself, scrub off any residue and let them dry completely. This ensures a smooth surface for painting.

Step 2: Lay Down the Base Coat

Brush on a layer of white acrylic paint. Let it dry thoroughly and add another layer if desired.

Step 3: Add Your Design

Cut out a small piece of your chosen decorative napkin. I typically try to make this slightly larger than the oyster itself, so that you have enough material to press it down into the indent of the shell. Using a small brush, apply Mod Podge on top of the white paint. Next, gently press the napkin (face up) onto the shell, smoothing out any wrinkles. Make sure all parts are thoroughly pressed onto the shell, and cover with another coat of Mod Podge.

Step 4: Get Your Gold On

Using a small paint brush, apply gold metalic paint to the edges of the oyster. I applied mine to be slightly clumpy to give some dimension. Let dry completely.

Step 5: Seal the Deal

Once you’re happy with your design and the paint is dry, apply one final layer of Mod Podge over the entire shell - gold paint included. Voila: a beautiful, one-of-a-kind oyster shell ring holder! Perfect for your dresser, vanity, or as a thoughtful handmade gift.

Tips for Success:

Ensure each layer of paint is fully dry before adding the next to avoid smudging.
Mix and match shell sizes for a fun collection.
If you don't like how a napkin is layered onto the shell, you can always remove and start again!

I hosted a handful of friends to decorate our oysters. It was such a fun group activity - especially perfect when you're looking to escape the summer heat. Happy decorating!