
Turtle shells have become a popular design element in home decor, with many people choosing to display them in their homes. As sea turtles are protected, designers usually opt for faux turtle shells made from plastic, resin, or other imitation materials. In this article, we will explore different ways to decorate a turtle shell, whether it is real or faux, and how to incorporate it into your home decor. From creating a statement wall to displaying it as a stand-alone piece, we will provide tips and inspiration to help you style your turtle shell in a way that enhances your space.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Placement | Walls, shelves, console tables, specimen boxes, candlesticks |
Style | Classical, eclectic, neutral, natural, safari, antique, lacquered |
Materials | Faux tortoise shell plastic, resin, metal, wood, brass |
Colours | Brown, dark, light |
Patterns | Solid, striped, chevron |
Texture | Smooth, textured |
What You'll Learn
Hanging a turtle shell on the wall as a statement piece
Hanging a turtle shell on your wall can add a unique and intriguing touch to your space. Whether you opt for a faux or natural shell, there are a few steps you can take to ensure it becomes a striking statement piece.
Firstly, consider the placement of your shell. A turtle shell can stand out beautifully when hung alone on a wall, perhaps in a spot where it can be easily viewed and appreciated. Alternatively, you can create an eye-catching display by grouping it with other art pieces or objects. For example, you could hang the shell above a sofa or console, or as part of a gallery wall, letting it become a conversation starter among other beloved items.
Once you've decided on the perfect spot, it's time to prepare the shell for hanging. If you're using a natural shell, ensure that it's been cleaned and treated appropriately. Soak the shell in warm water with borax, salt, and vinegar, and then scrub it with mild soap and allow it to dry thoroughly. If there are any loose scales, carefully glue them back into place with contact cement and let it dry.
The next step is to protect and enhance the shell's appearance. Apply several coats of polyurethane to the shell, following the product instructions for proper application and drying times. This step will give your shell a beautiful finish and help preserve it.
Now, it's ready for hanging! You can attach a wire to the inside of the shell by drilling small holes and threading picture wire through, or by using a strong adhesive like JB weld. Ensure the wire is secure and able to support the weight of the shell. Mark the spot on the wall where you'll hang the shell by tracing its shape and taping the outline. Hammer a hook into the wall within the traced area, and then carefully hang the shell by placing the wire onto the hook.
Step back and admire your new statement piece! A turtle shell can be a captivating addition to your home, adding a touch of nature and texture to your walls.
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Displaying a shell on a stand
Displaying a turtle shell on a stand is a great way to showcase its beauty and make it a focal point in a room. Here are some tips and ideas to help you display your turtle shell on a stand:
Choose a Stand
Select a stand that complements the size and shape of your turtle shell. A pedestal or candlestick stand can be a great option, as it elevates the shell and allows it to be seen from all sides. You can find stands in various materials such as wood, metal, or even brass. Consider choosing a stand that matches the style of your home decor. For example, if you have a rustic or natural aesthetic, a wooden stand might be a good choice, while a sleek metal stand could work well with a more modern or minimalist style.
Prepare the Shell
Before placing the shell on the stand, ensure that it is clean and free of any dirt or debris. If the shell is natural, you may need to soak it in a solution of warm water, borax, salt, and vinegar to remove any remaining organic material. You can also use a mild soap or detergent to gently scrub the shell. If there are any loose scales, carefully glue them back into place with an appropriate adhesive. Once the shell is clean and dry, you may want to apply a coat of polyurethane to protect it and bring out its natural shine.
Attach the Shell to the Stand
Depending on the type of stand you choose, you may need to attach the shell securely to prevent it from falling off. Consider using a strong adhesive, such as epoxy or contact cement, to attach the shell to the stand. Alternatively, you can use wire or other hardware to create a hanging mechanism inside the shell, allowing you to suspend it from the stand. Just ensure that any attachments are strong enough to bear the weight of the shell.
Placement and Styling
When placing your turtle shell on a stand, consider its placement in the room. You can use a stand to display the shell on a shelf, mantel, or even a side table. If you have a larger shell, a stand can help it become a focal point in the room. You can style the shell by itself or surround it with complementary accessories. For example, pair it with other natural elements like antlers or taxidermy, or go for a safari-inspired look with leopard or zebra-print accents.
Ethical Considerations
It is important to note that sea turtles are protected, and it is illegal to use their shells for decorative purposes. Always opt for faux turtle shells made from plastic, resin, or other imitation materials. If you do choose to use a real turtle shell, ensure that it is antique or naturally shed, and only purchase from reliable and ethical sources.
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Using a shell as part of a specimen display
Choose a Shell
First, select the turtle shell you want to display. You can choose from a variety of faux turtle shells made from materials like resin, plastic, or metal. These are great alternatives to real shells, as sea turtles are protected. If you prefer a genuine shell, ensure that you are buying from a reliable source and that the shell was naturally shed without harming the turtle.
Display Methods
Once you have your shell, consider how you want to display it. One option is to hang it on a wall as a statement piece. You can also create a larger grouping of shells in different sizes, textures, colours, and patterns to make a stunning display. Alternatively, you can display the shell on a stand, allowing you to see all sides of it.
Complementary Decor
To enhance your specimen display, consider incorporating complementary decor elements. For example, you can surround the shell with various art pieces or group it with objects on a console beneath it. If you're going for an animal-inspired or safari interior look, pair the shell with leopard or zebra accessories. You can also display the shell alongside your favourite antiques or natural elements like antlers and taxidermy.
Finish Options
When it comes to the finish of your turtle shell, you have a few options. You can opt for a natural look, or go for a lacquered finish. It's a matter of personal preference. Some people prefer the raw, organic appearance of an untreated shell, while others like the polished and shiny effect of a lacquer.
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Creating a vignette with a shell inside a specimen box
Choose a Specimen Box
Select a specimen box that complements the size of your turtle shell. Consider a glass-fronted box or a box with a removable lid to showcase the shell effectively. Ensure the box is clean and in good condition.
Prepare the Turtle Shell
Before placing the shell inside the specimen box, decide whether you prefer a natural or lacquered finish. If you opt for a natural look, clean the shell gently and ensure it is free of any dirt or debris. If you prefer a lacquered finish, apply a coat of clear lacquer to enhance the shell's colour and pattern. Allow the lacquer to dry completely before handling.
Create a Display Stand (Optional)
To add depth and dimension to your vignette, consider creating a display stand for the turtle shell. You can use various objects as a stand, such as an old brass candlestick or a small pedestal. This elevates the shell within the specimen box, allowing viewers to admire it from multiple angles.
Arrange the Vignette
Place the turtle shell inside the specimen box, positioning it carefully on the display stand if you have chosen to include one. You can add other decorative elements to the vignette, such as small antiques or leopard- or zebra-print accessories, to create a cohesive display. Play around with the arrangement until you achieve a composition that is aesthetically pleasing to you.
Display Your Vignette
Choose a location for your finished vignette that complements the style of the room. Vignettes are versatile and can be displayed in various settings, from soft and elegant spaces to more eclectic and vibrant environments. Consider placing your specimen box on a shelf, mantel, or tabletop, where it will be visible and appreciated.
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Buying a faux turtle shell
If you're looking to buy a faux turtle shell, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it's important to consider the purpose of the shell and where you intend to place it. Faux turtle shells can be used as wall art, either hung on their own as a statement piece or grouped together with other shells or artwork to create a unique display. The size, texture, colour and pattern of the shell can all contribute to the overall aesthetic, so choose something that fits your style and taste.
When it comes to finding a faux turtle shell, there are several online retailers that offer a variety of options. Websites like Etsy and Amazon have numerous listings for faux turtle shells in different sizes, materials and price ranges. You can find everything from decorative resin or metal shells to wearable turtle shell pillows and costumes. It's worth browsing these sites to compare prices and find a shell that suits your needs.
Another option is to check speciality home decor stores, either online or in person. For example, Cailini Coastal offers a decorative faux turtle shell set that includes white-washed shell replicas mounted on crystal bases, adding a touch of coastal glam to any space. Driven by Decor is another website that provides ideas and inspiration for decorating with faux turtle shells, including suggestions for where to buy them, such as HomeGoods.
Lastly, when purchasing a faux turtle shell, it's important to ensure that you're buying from a reliable source. If you're interested in a genuine shell, make sure to confirm that it was naturally shed and no turtles were harmed in the process. However, there are many stunning faux replicas available, so you can easily find an ethical and stylish option to decorate your space.
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