Looking for a fun, beach-inspired craft? Painting seashells with Dixie Belle Paint is an easy and creative way to add coastal charm to your home or gifts. Whether you want a fresh summer project or unique decor, painting shells brings a touch of the shore right to you.

A diptych graphic showing a close-up of a hand dipping a paintbrush into an open jar of Dixie Belle Chalk Mineral Paint in the color Ecru on the left, and a collection of natural seashells and starfish arranged on a white background on the right, representing a coastal craft project using Dixie Belle paint.

Why Use Dixie Belle Paint for Seashells?

Dixie Belle offers multiple paint lines perfect for sea shells, including:

  • Chalk Mineral Paint: Provides a flat finish with smooth, even coverage.
  • Silk All-In-One Mineral Paint: Features built-in primer and topcoat for a durable, satin finish.
  • Terra Clay Paint: A versatile clay-based paint ideal for creating textured, layered looks with earthy, muted tones. It adheres well to porous surfaces like shells and offers excellent durability.

If your shells have slick or shiny surfaces, we recommend priming with Bonding BOSS to ensure proper adhesion before painting.

A collage of four photos showcasing Dixie Belle Paint products: top left shows a jar of Bonding BOSS white with a paintbrush resting on top against a white background; top right features a jar of Chalk Mineral Paint in Dixie Belle Blue with a paintbrush coated in paint resting on the jar against a blue backdrop; bottom left shows a jar of Silk All-In-One Mineral Paint in Sequoia with a paintbrush dripping paint above it on a red background; bottom right displays a jar of Terra Clay Paint in Marigold with a paintbrush resting on the jar, set on an orange surface with a bright yellow paint pot underneath.

All Dixie Belle paints are water-based, non-toxic, and easy to clean up, making them perfect for indoor crafts.

Supplies Needed:

How to Paint Seashells with Dixie Belle Paint

  1. Clean Your Shells: Soak in warm water and gently scrub away debris. Allow shells to dry completely.
  2. Prime if Needed: Apply Bonding BOSS on slick or shiny shells to create a surface that paint will adhere to.
  3. Pick Your Paint: Choose Chalk Mineral Paint for a flat finish, Silk All-In-One for a smooth, durable finish, or Terra Clay Paint for a textured, earthy appearance.
  4. Apply Paint: Use small brushes to apply thin coats. The shell’s natural texture adds character, so embrace it! Two coats usually do the trick.
  5. Add Details: Use Artist Brushes or stencils for patterns. Add shine with Dixie Belle’s Gold Marker, transfers, or decoupage for extra personality.
  6. Seal Your Project: Protect your painted shells with a coat of Clear Coat for durability or Best Dang Wax for a gentle, natural finish.

A collage of six images showcasing Dixie Belle Paint products and painted crafts: top left features a red acrylic holder with three red-handled paintbrushes and a black paintbrush resting on the side; top middle shows a gold marker with gold swirls on white paper; top right displays red floral decoupage papers with green leaves on top and a wooden Dixie Belle stir stick; center bottom shows three open paint jars with light neutral tones, two brushes resting on the edge; bottom features a close-up of assorted small seashells on green fabric.

Creative Ways to Use Painted Seashells

  • Create colorful centerpieces by filling bowls with painted shells.
  • Arrange shells in shadow boxes or on canvases for coastal wall art.
  • Create a unique chime by attaching to string or fishing line.
  • Turn them into jewelry trays.

A collage of three images featuring seashell decor and crafts: the top image shows a colorful hanging seashell mobile with orange, yellow, pink, and natural shells against a green blurred background; the bottom left image displays a coastal-themed centerpiece with a white candle surrounded by painted seashells in white, blue, and natural tones on a dining table; the bottom right image showcases decorative scallop shells painted with floral designs in blue, pink, and multi-color patterns, accented with gold edges, displayed on a lace-covered surface with the watermark "Leah Kendrick Design."

Final Thoughts

Painting seashells with Dixie Belle Paint is an enjoyable craft that offers lasting, vibrant results. Whether you choose Chalk Mineral Paint, Silk All-In-One, or Terra Clay Paint, you’ll have quality products designed for easy application and beautiful finishes. Perfect for all skill levels, this project brings a relaxed, seaside feel to your space. To learn more about which paint line is right for you, check out our blog, Dixie Belle Controversy: Which Paint to Use.

Ready to start your own shell painting project? Share your creations with us—we love seeing how you bring the beach home!

Blog Pinterest pin

Home Decor, Home Decor Ideas, How To, Seasonal Projects

About the Author

Dixie Belle Paint Company

Dixie Belle Paint Company provides a line of chalk mineral paint that is high quality, easy to use, and most importantly priced so every DIYer can create and discover the joy of painting.

View All Articles