DIY Coastal Seashell Wind Chime/Wall Hanging: Easy Summer Craft

Updated at: 10/05/2025

Summer's here, and what better way to celebrate the season than by crafting a beautiful and breezy coastal seashell wind chime? This easy DIY project is perfect for beginners and requires minimal materials, making it an ideal activity for a sunny afternoon. Imagine the gentle tinkling sound of shells as a gentle breeze dances through your creation, bringing a touch of the seaside to your home, whether it's hung on your porch, patio, or even inside by a window. The charming aesthetic complements any coastal or nautical-themed decor, instantly adding a touch of relaxed summer vibes.

This delightful craft project is incredibly versatile; personalize your wind chime with your favorite shells, beads, and ribbons to create a truly unique piece reflecting your style. Ready to transform your collection of seashells into a stunning piece of art? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to create your own DIY coastal seashell wind chime/wall hanging.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • 29 seashells
  • craft twine
  • piece of driftwood
  • clear craft glue
  • hot glue gun
Safety Guidelines
  • Always supervise children during crafting to prevent accidental ingestion of small shells or beads.
  • Use strong, weather-resistant string or fishing line for hanging, especially if displayed outdoors. Avoid using materials that will rot or break easily.
  • Be mindful of the weight of your finished wind chime, especially when hanging it from a delicate surface or structure. Ensure proper support to prevent damage or accidents.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Driftwood

    • Drill five holes in the driftwood (or tie twine around it if preferred).
    Drill five holes in the driftwood (or tie twine around it if preferred).
    Prepare the Driftwood

  2. Prepare the Twine

    • Cut five 60-inch long strands of twine. Create a double knot halfway along each strand.
    Cut five 60-inch long strands of twine. Create a double knot halfway along each strand.
    Prepare the Twine

  3. Attach Twine to Driftwood

    • Thread the twine through the holes in the driftwood, ensuring the knots are on the bottom.
    Thread the twine through the holes in the driftwood, ensuring the knots are on the bottom.
    Attach Twine to Driftwood

  4. Prepare Twine for Shells

    • Create single knots along each twine strand, about 1.5-2 inches apart, where the seashells will be glued.
    Create single knots along each twine strand, about 1.5-2 inches apart, where the seashells will be glued.
    Prepare Twine for Shells

  5. Glue Seashells to Twine

    • Glue one seashell to each single knot using hot glue. Hold for a few seconds until the glue sets.
    • Repeat step 5 for all seashells (7 on the middle strand, 6 on the adjacent strands, 5 on the outer strands).
    Repeat step 5 for all seashells (7 on the middle strand, 6 on the adjacent strands, 5 on the outer strands).Repeat step 5 for all seashells (7 on the middle strand, 6 on the adjacent strands, 5 on the outer strands).
    Glue Seashells to Twine

  6. Finish the Wind Chime

    • Knot the free ends of the twine together.
    Knot the free ends of the twine together.
    Finish the Wind Chime

Read more: DIY Story Stones: Budget-Friendly Sensory Play for Kids

Tips

  • Consider an ombre effect with seashell colors.
  • Seashells can be collected on the beach or purchased from a craft store.
  • Be careful not to burn yourself with the hot glue gun.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Unevenly Spaced Shells

Reason: Rushing the process or not measuring carefully can lead to an unbalanced and unattractive wind chime.
Solution: Use a ruler and evenly space the shells along the fishing line before knotting them.

2. Weak or Broken Fishing Line

Reason: Using thin or old fishing line can cause the wind chime to break easily or the shells to fall off.
Solution: Choose a strong, thicker gauge fishing line and double-knot each shell to ensure it stays secure.

3. Improper Hanging Mechanism

Reason: A poorly attached hanging loop can make the wind chime unstable and prone to falling.
Solution: Use a sturdy loop of strong twine or fishing line, securely tying it to the main fishing line and then to your desired hanging point.

FAQs

What kind of shells are best for making a wind chime?
Almost any seashell will work! Look for shells that are lightweight, relatively flat, and have holes or are easily drilled. Avoid very fragile or heavy shells.
What if I don't have any fishing line or strong thread? Can I use something else?
You can substitute strong craft thread, thin twine, or even thin, flexible wire. Just make sure it's strong enough to hold the weight of the shells.
How do I prevent the shells from chipping or breaking during the crafting process?
Handle the shells gently! Use padded pliers or protective gloves if needed when drilling holes. Avoid dropping them and try to use soft surfaces when working with them.