- 1). Clean the shells you have collected by soaking them in lukewarm water. Be sure to get all the sand and debris out. If you like, you can use bleach to make sure everything is out, but water will do just fine. Scallop shells are naturally porous, so this is all the treatment they will need.
- 2). Use your brushes to paint directly onto the shell. Acrylics show up nice and bright, and it's best to keep the colors separate. If you want a softer look, mix the paint with water. Both the smooth and the rippled side are suitable for painting on and will result in different effects.
- 3). Make sure to clean your brushes thoroughly with water before changing colors, especially if you have only one brush. Use the paper towel or cloth to dry the brush in between colors.
- 4). Let the shells dry in the sun. If that isn't an option, a heated room will do. Make sure they are completely dry to the touch before carrying on to the next step.
- 5). Apply a clear coat to the painted scallop shell. You can purchase clear coat in an aerosol can at any hardware store. It will protect your painted scallop shell from chips, scratches and general wear and tear.
- 6). Let the clear coat dry completely before hanging the shell for display.
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