Super Simple Seashell Dish | Rub 'n Buff DIY

Last Updated on January 1, 2024 by lindseymahoney

I love a quick and easy DIY and this cute seashell dish definitely qualifies as one. I updated our guest bedroom a few months ago and decided to add a small dish to the nightstand for our visitors to place jewelry or other trinkets.

Simple and affordable seashell jewelry dish DIY with gold accents | Building Bluebird

This DIY project took about 10 minutes and I used items that we already owned – now that is a win!

This seashell jewelry dish is perfect for any bedroom and is a great gift idea for loved ones.

Simple DIY Seashell Dish Using Rub ‘n Buff
DIY Materials for Gilded Seashell Jewelry Dish
1 | Attach Painters Tape (if necessary)
2 | Apply Rub ‘n Buff
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Simple DIY Seashell Dish Using Rub ‘n Buff

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This DIY project is so simple and the perfect decor accent for lovers of the grandmillennial and cottagecore style! I used the seashell as a jewelry dish, but I can see it being used in so many other ways!

For example, you can turn these gilded seashells into Christmas ornaments, use them as book toppers, display multiple shells in a bowl, or even glue shells around a mirror or picture frame.

DIY Materials for Gilded Seashell Jewelry Dish

Seashells (similar) – I already owned a bag of unused decorative shells
Painters Tape
Rub ‘n Buff (I used Gold Leaf)
Craft paintbrush (a finger or cloth works as well)

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1 | Attach Painters Tape (if necessary)

Depending on the pattern you choose for the gold accents, you will attach painter’s tape if it is applicable. For my clam shell dish, I decided to add gold to the bottom 1/3 of the shell with a crisp paint line.

I attached the tape in a straight line and pressed the edge firmly to the clam shell. This creates a tight seal for the crisp, straight line I wanted.

2 | Apply Rub ‘n Buff

Rub ‘n Buff can be applied in a few different ways. You can use a paintbrush, a soft cloth, or even your finger to apply the waxy metallic finish. I chose to use a small, craft paintbrush for this project.

A little bit of Rub ‘n Buff goes a long way, so I began with a small dollop of the Gold Leaf finish and applied it to the shell. Once the gilded finish is applied, remove the tape. I now have a cute clam shell trinket dish with a little shimmer and flare!

I had a bag full of decorative seashells sitting in a drawer and decided to add some gold accents to those as well.

Using a paintbrush, I lightly brushed the gold leaf rub ‘n buff on the tips of the clamshell and followed the darker patterns of the shell. It is subtle but gives the seashell a little shimmer that makes it feel special.

Each seashell has a different gilded treatment and I think they all turned out really sweet.

Repurposing items I already own and thinking outside of the box always gives me a thrill. I just love how this sweet little seashell dish turned out and even with purchasing the materials, it is still an affordable and easy DIY project to try at home.