Galaxy Crystal Seashells
Create beautiful galaxy crystal seashells using simple materials and a calming process.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: Varies
- Category: Craft
- Method: Crafting
- Cuisine: N/A
- Diet: N/A
Ingredients
- Clean seashells, bowls, or sand dollars (real or ceramic)
- Water (hot, handled with care)
- Crystal-forming powder: alum or borax
- White craft glue or clear-drying tacky glue
- Acrylic paint in deep colors: black, navy, deep purple
- Mica powder, fine glitter, or pearlescent pigment
- Small heatproof glass jar or cup
- Wooden stir sticks or a spoon
- Small paintbrushes and a foam brush
- Protective gloves and eye protection
- A shallow tray and soft towel for resting shells
- Optional: liquid dye or food coloring
- Optional: clear resin if sealing later
Instructions
- Prepare your workspace with a towel and tray. Wear gloves and eye protection.
- Lay out shells with the painted side up and keep hot water in a safe cup nearby.
- Paint a deep base inside each shell. Use navy, black, or purple with mica for shimmer.
- Let the paint dry until slightly tacky.
- Mix your crystal solution in the heatproof jar by pouring boiling water over alum or borax, stirring until dissolved.
- Add dye or mica to the solution, stirring gently.
- Apply a thin line of glue where you want crystals to grow.
- Dip the glued edge into the solution or spoon a little over it.
- Place the shell on a towel in a calm spot and cover loosely to keep dust away.
- Check after one hour for crystal growth; add more solution if needed.
- Allow crystals to grow for several hours or overnight.
- When satisfied, let the shell dry fully on the towel.
- Optionally, seal the shell with gloss resin or clear spray for protection.
Notes
The crystals may vary in size and form; patience and careful handling are key for the best results.