Coquillage mirror in the making

One of my favorite things to make are shell mirrors… That being said, this is one of the mirrors I am working on lately.  The shells that I use are the ones I have collected on the beach and shells I have ordered from all over the world.

This mirror is still incomplete, even though I have it hanging up.  I needed to get it off my table for the holidays.  I like the way it is manifesting so far… I want to add some more textural shells and finish off the edges.

How to make the Coqillage Mirror

I started with a 1/4" plywood, cut it to size using a jig saw.  Painted the back and added hooks for a heavy duty cable wire to hang. 

I added a beveled edged mirror to the front center with mirror glue (sorry I don't have pictures of that, but you get the idea).  I wanted to have a focal point on the top, so I adhered bunch of coral around a beautiful large abalone shell.  Then, continued to place different kinds of shells all around the mirror.

 

























I have it temporarily displayed above my checkered cabinet along with my sea inspired arrangement.

I love living near the ocean and enjoying all the beauty it has to offer.  I like taking walks to find treasures that has washed up like beautiful sea glass, driftwood, old pottery and of course beautiful seashells.  Normally, it is freezing here at the New York beaches during this time of year, but it has been surprisingly mild… So we took advantage of the weather and took a walk on the beach to find some goodies and to have our doggy Ringo go for a run.

 Found tons of oyster shells and quahog shells.. . I can't wait to make a oyster shell mirror!

What do you think? Do you like shell mirrors?  I would love to get your opinion on it… Please leave me a comment, your comments mean so much to me.

Have a great day!

I've linked to:

Home maker on a Dime
Coastal charm
Boogie board cottage
You are talking too much
Restore interiors
My simple home life