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How to make a simple seashell magent: everything you need
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items This is a fun and easy DIY magnet to create, especially if you love the ocean, beach, and seashells. It is a perfect craft for most ages and will require adult supervision for younger kids. Have fun!
Sections
10
Seashells
Paint Brushes
Gesso
Paint markers
Modge Podge
Clay
Seashells
Obviously, you got to have seashells to make a seashell magnet.
These are a great pack of small seashells to make a perfect magnet.
Small White Clam Sea Shells Bulk for DIY
Paint Brushes
This is a variety of paint brushes for a good price you will need these for both the gesso and modge podge.
A great variety pack of paint brushes with multiple sizes.
Soucolor 20Pcs Acrylic Paint Brushes Set
Gesso
The 1st step is to seal the shell(s) with some gesso to give it a fresh canvas to add your paint.
Got to have some gesso to help the paint stick to the shell.
U.S. Art Supply White Gesso Primer 16.9oz
Paint markers
Once your gesso dries now it's time to paint your shell. Get creative with all the different colors these paint markers have to offer.
These markers are excellent! Dual tip sides and so many colors to choose from!
120 Colors Acrylic Paint Markers, Dual Tip Pens
Modge Podge
Now that you have finished painting, seal your work with some modge podge. You will want to repeat this process after you buff out your clay.
Modge Podge is needed to seal everything up.
Mod Podge Gloss Sealer Glue & Finish 16oz
Clay
You can add some clay to the pit of your shell. This step is required to be able to add your magnet. Once you add the clay make sure you push your magnet into the clay and carefully remove the magnet you should be left with an indent where your magne...
Best air dry clay I've tried so far. Definitely get what you pay for.
DAS Air-Hardening Modeling Clay 2.2 Lb White
Nail Files
Once the clay has dried, you can go ahead and buff out the clay. To make it more flush with the seashell and more smooth.
I use these to file out the clay once it drys.
Makartt Nail File 100/180 Grit Emery Boards
Super Glue
Make sure to add modge podge to the clay part before this next step. Then, you can add some super glue to the magnet indent once the modge podge has dried. I really like this gorilla glue as you can use both the squeeze nozzle or the brush!
Need a little of this to stick the magnet to the shell/clay.
Gorilla Super Glue 12g Pack of 2 Clear
Magnets
Now, it's time to add the magnet quickly before the glue dries. Push the magnet into the indent. Let the glue dry a bit, usually does not take long. Now you have a fun shell magnet! Enjoy!
NOTE: I added some pictures of my seashell magnet for referen...
Here are the magnets that I used. These work great and a perfect size.
Refrigerator Magnets 50 Pcs Tiny Round 10x3mm
Other Items
Here are some other items you can use in place of the items I listed above.
I have seen a lot of people use this air dry clay as well. It is cheaper than the DAS clay. I have not tried this one yet, but I have heard decent reviews, so this should work too if you want more budget friendly clay.
Crayola Air Dry Clay 5lbs, Natural White
This is a great topcoat to add that finishing touch. Either to protect your masterpiece for years to come or to add an extra glossy look.
Minwax Polycrylic Gloss Clear Water-Based Finish
Here is another alternative that you can use to seal your projects. Works very well! Make sure that you have a UV lamp or you can even cure it out in the sun. Also, safety first, make sure you have a respirator mask and in a highly ventilated area as...
KISREL UV Resin 300g - Hard Clear UV Epoxy
I would suggest buying these if you are going to seal your seashell with UV resin. It's easier to clean them, and you won't ruin your pain brushes.
LORMAY 7 Pcs Silicone Brush Kit for UV Resin & Makeup (Purple)
This is the UV Lamp I use to cure the UV resin on my projects. Does the trick!
SUNUV UV Nail Lamp LED Gel Dryer Pink
It is a great paint brush set with a variety of brush sizes.This set includes brushes with various brush shapes such as rounds, liners, flats, spotters, and angles, ensuring you have the right tool for every detail.
Grabie 11 Pc Mini Paint Brush Set for Art
I have loved this paint brand since I was a kid. This is the set I started off with. A variety of 25 colors to give a start to your apple barrel acrylic paint collection. I like to mix the paints together to create new colors (also saves some money i...
Apple Barrel Color Basics 2 fl oz Acrylic Craft Paint Set, Matte Finish, 25 Piece
Here are some fun Seaside inspired colors as well, which are great colors to use to create a seashell magnet.
Apple Barrel Seaside Marina 2 fl oz Acrylic Craft Paint, Matte Finish, 12 Piece