The Centuries-Old Craft That Turns Seashells Into A Stunning Design Element

It's not uncommon for travelers to bring souvenirs back from their visits to the sea. From driftwood sculptures to sand dollars, the seashore has compelled many to bring items home to incorporate into their "salt life" inspired home designs. One vintage keepsake that would make a stunning addition to any nautical-themed decor are sailor's valentines. They are beautifully crafted wooden boxes or hinged frames encrusted with hundreds of tiny shells. These gifts were popular with sailors to give to their loved ones as a way to let them know they were thinking of them while out at sea. They are a truly unique way to incorporate seashells into your home that also adds a touch of vintage charm.

For a long time, it was believed that the sailor's valentine was an item crafted by sailors while journeying on the waters in the 19th century. What historians actually learned was that the decorative trinkets were more akin to a gift purchased in a souvenir shop before leaving the port. When a sailor's valentines was disassembled for restoration, it contained a newspaper clippings from Barbados indicating that they could be purchased in local shops and were made by the women of the island. Despite who made them, sailor's valentines are still an interesting and rare part of history with a wonderful link to maritime trade in the 1800s. This fact almost makes them an even more valuable antique to use to decorate your home like a beach house.

While the sailor's valentine is considered a rare item to find, handcrafted recreations can be found on eBay if you're willing to shell out some dough (pun intended). They are being sold on the auction site anywhere from hundreds to a couple thousand dollars depending on the size and intricacy. It's truly a stunning antique item that will make a lovely conversation piece in any home. Whether you are looking for items for a maximalist look or a show-stopping centerpiece for your nautical-inspired decor, the sailor's valentine is worth considering.

If you are looking for a less expensive way to add a touch of the sea to your home, you could easily save seashells to use as decor and DIY your own sailor's valentine. Use a hinged shadow box or unpainted wood box as your base, map out your design with a pencil, and use E6000 or hot glue to add your seashells. For a truly historically accurate version, be sure to add a personalized message. When you've finished, display it on a shelf, hang it on a wall, or use it as a centerpiece on an ocean-themed table. You could even choose the shells you use for your craft based on your room's color scheme. The beauty of sailor's valentines is that they were meant as heartfelt mementos. They are an expression of love and can serve as meaningful decor for your home.