How to Make a Simple Seashell Snowman Ornament

In this post – step-by-step instructions for making an adorable sand dollar snowman ornament.

As we wrap up our latest stay in San Diego, I’m thinking ahead to the holidays. I’ve shared lots of fun coastal DIY decor ideas for fall. I want to share one more coastal craft before we return to the Bay Area for the holidays. Do you wanna build a snowman? Me too! Let’s get started.

Introduction

Is this seashell snowman ornament not the cutest? I love how easy it was to put together. It’s a great way to use some of those sand dollars you collected on the beach. This project would be a fun one to do with kids too. Let me show you how!

Supplies Needed:

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3 Sand Dollars of different sizes

Large Craft Sticks

White Spray Paint

Black & Orange Acrylic Paint

Black felt

Ribbon

Holiday greenery

Step 1: Spray Paint the Sand Dollars & Stick

I first spray painted all 3 sand dollars and craft stick white. While I think this would be cute without white paint too, I wanted the snowman to be really white. Painting the craft stick white makes it blend in with the snowman’s body. Allow everything to dry thoroughly.

Step 2: Assemble the body

Arrange the 3 sand dollars close together on the craft stick. Stack them with the largest shell on the bottom and the smallest on top to build the snowman. Carefully glue them to the stick and allow to cool.

Step 3: Add Details & a Hat

Using the black paint and a fine paint brush, add eyes and buttons to your snowman. You can also use real buttons if you want to. Use the orange paint for a carrot nose.

Step 4: Add the Arms & Hat

For the twig arms, snip off some sprigs of greenery from the garland and gently pull them off the stems. Glue the bare stems on the back of the snowman for arms.

I wanted a traditional look for my snowman so I gave him a top hat made from felt. It was easy to cut one freehand. For the greenery, I snipped several sprigs from a faux holiday mini garland. I then glued them to the hat and to the base of my snowman for added detail.

Step 5: Add a Bow (or Scarf!)

Cut approximately 12” length of ribbon for your snowman’s bow. Tie it around the neck. Alternatively, you can use a small strip of fabric to make a cute scarf.

Step 6: Add a Hanging Loop and Enjoy!

Cut another 10” length of ribbon. Loop it and glue the ends to the back of the craft stick. Allow to cool and enjoy! These make adorable ornaments or gift toppers. Let me know in the comments how your snowmen (and snowwomen!) turn out!

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Other Coastal Craft Ideas

If you are looking for more coastal craft ideas, be sure to check out some of my other posts! You can also sign up for my email list below. Have a great week!

How to Make a Beautiful Fall Door Hanger

How to Make a Seashell Turkey Place Card Holder

DIY Coastal Candle Holder: A Step-by-Step Guide