Shell Valentine
When whaling was big business in the mid-19th century,sailors often returned home with valentines for their sweethearts or wives. These valentines were not the lacy paper kind but rather hinged, octagonal shadow boxes filled with intricate and beautiful shell designs. Whether made by the sailors themselves or local island women, these valentines became cherished gifts. Here's how to make one that you can hang in your room.
copyright 2002 by Nancy F. Castaldo All rights reserved
1. Remove the lid from your box and set it aside. Paint the sides of the
box, inside and outside, with whatever color you wish. Allow the paint to
dry.
2. Sailors'valentines often had a heart in the center of the box made out
of one or more shells. Pick out a shell or shells that you want to be the
focus of your own valentine.
3. Work on the design of your valentine by starting at the center and working
your way out. What shells can form the base for your center shell? Lay them
out in the center of your box. Don't use any glue yet.
4. Next, pick shells that will form a circle or square around the middle shells.
Continue placing shells in your circle or square pattern until you reach the
sides of the box. Place a border with another type of shell.
5. After you have laid out all of your shells, it's time to begin gluing them
to the box. Begin this time with the border and work your way to the center
of your box.
6. Place the clear box lid back on the box after the glue has dried. Tape
the sides closed with the clear packing tape.
7. Tape the ribbon to the back of the box to create a loop for hanging your
sailor's box. Give your finished valentine to someone special. They'll really
love it!
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