11 Super Cute Sand Dollar Craft Ideas That You Will Love
Sand dollars are little treasures from the sea, and they’re not just pretty to look at—they’re also perfect for DIY projects! Whether you’ve collected a few from your beach walks or purchased some from Tumbler Home for crafting, these delicate shells can turn into beautiful keepsakes and decorations. Below are 11 fun and creative sand dollar craft ideas that bring a coastal touch to your home.
1. Sand Dollar Christmas Tree
Why stick to traditional pine when you can create a coastal-inspired Christmas tree? Stack sand dollars in tiers, starting with larger ones at the base and working up to smaller ones, gluing them together in a conical shape. Add mini seashells, pearls, or tiny starfish as “ornaments,” and top it off with a glittery starfish. It makes the cutest tabletop holiday decoration that brings the beach right into your living room. Perfect for anyone dreaming of a white sand Christmas instead of a snowy one!
2. Sand Dollar Ornaments
Give your Christmas tree a beachy vibe with handmade sand dollar ornaments. Simply loop some twine or ribbon through a small hole at the top and decorate the front with glitter, paint, or even hand-lettered messages. These look gorgeous against twinkling lights, reflecting a subtle shimmer. They also make wonderful handmade gifts for friends who love the ocean. Bonus: they’re lightweight and won’t weigh down your tree branches!
3. Sand Dollar Wreath
Transform your front door into a beachy welcome with a sand dollar wreath. Start with a foam or grapevine wreath base and cover it with sand dollars, mixing in sea glass, shells, or dried starfish for texture. A burlap or navy-blue ribbon adds the finishing coastal touch. It’s the perfect way to greet guests with seaside charm before they even step inside. Plus, it works for all seasons—not just summer!
4. Mini Sand Dollar Earrings
Mini sand dollars are adorable on their own, but turn them into earrings and you’ll really have a statement piece. All you need are jewelry hooks and some craft glue or wire to secure the shells. Paint them with a thin layer of clear nail polish to strengthen and protect their delicate surface. You can leave them natural for a simple beachy look, or add a hint of gold paint to the edges for sparkle. They’re lightweight, stylish, and a subtle way to show your love for the ocean.
5. Sand Dollar Shadow Box
Turn sand dollars into a piece of wall art with a shadow box display. Arrange them in rows or scatter them with other beach finds like shells and driftwood. Use a background of coastal colors—like aqua or sandy beige—for an extra pop. This project is a great way to preserve memories from a beach vacation. Every time you walk past it, you’ll be reminded of sunny days and salty air.
6. Sand Dollar Table Centerpiece
Dress up your bathroom counter with a simple yet stunning sand dollar centerpiece. Arrange sand dollars in a large glass vase or tray, mixing in candles, driftwood, and sea glass for texture. It creates a coastal vibe that works beautifully for dinner parties or casual family meals. Plus, it’s easy to switch up with seasonal touches—like adding mini pumpkins in fall.
7. Sand Dollar Photo Frame
Turn an ordinary photo frame into a seaside masterpiece with sand dollars. Glue them around the border of a plain wooden or glass frame, mixing in bits of sea glass or tiny shells for added charm. You can leave them natural white for a classic look or paint them in pastel coastal shades. Insert your favorite beach photo for the ultimate personalized keepsake. It’s the perfect way to capture sunny memories and display them with coastal flair.
8. Mini Painted Sand Dollar Magnets
Add a splash of color to your fridge with painted sand dollar magnets. Use acrylic paints to decorate the shells with tropical designs, beach scenes, or fun patterns. Attach small magnets to the back, and voila—you’ve got functional, artsy décor. It’s a great project to do with kids, since each magnet can be as quirky and creative as they like. Plus, they make great little keepsakes to gift or trade!
9. Sand Dollar Place Cards
Hosting a beach wedding, dinner, or party? Sand dollars make the perfect place card holders. Write each guest’s name on a sand dollar with metallic paint pens, and place them at each setting. Not only do they guide your guests to their seats, but they also double as a coastal party favor. You can even tie them with ribbon around a napkin for a more elegant touch. It’s a simple way to add ocean-inspired charm to your table.
10. Sand Dollar Garland
Stringing sand dollars together creates the dreamiest beachy garland. Use twine or fishing line and add a mix of shells, beads, or driftwood between each sand dollar for variety. Hang it across a mantel, over a window, or along a patio railing for instant coastal vibes. You can even customize it for the holidays by weaving in fairy lights or greenery. It’s versatile, beautiful, and surprisingly easy to make.
11. Sand Dollar Candle Holders
For a cozy glow, decorate candle holders with sand dollars. Hot glue them around the outside of a glass jar or votive, and let the flickering candlelight peek through. The soft shadows create a warm and beachy atmosphere, perfect for evenings on the patio or a relaxing bath. You can keep them natural or paint the sand dollars white for a clean, coastal look. They’re simple, elegant, and bring the magic of the ocean into your home.
And there you have it—11 fun sand dollar craft ideas that range from holiday-ready to everyday coastal décor. Whether you’re decorating your home, prepping for a party, or just feeling creative, these little treasures are the perfect way to bring a touch of the sea indoors.