There’s something undeniably calming about the sea, the soft hush of waves, the salty breeze, and the treasures washed ashore.
With these 22 elegant sand dollar DIYs, you can bring that tranquil coastal charm right into your home.
Whether you live steps from the water or miles inland, these beach-inspired crafts invite the serene beauty of the shore to grace your space.
Perfect for coastal décor lovers or anyone dreaming of the ocean, each project whispers of sun-bleached days and barefoot moments by the sea.
#1. Sand Dollar Coastal Christmas Tree
This stunning tabletop Christmas tree is an unexpected twist on holiday décor, built entirely from sand dollars!
It brings a relaxed, coastal energy into your festive setup while maintaining that warm, seasonal charm.
Plus, the soft white shells form a sculptural silhouette, accented with mini green baubles and crowned by a coral-hued starfish.
Materials Needed
- 15-20 real or faux sand dollars
- Wooden base and dowel or foam cone
- Hot glue gun
- Mini ornaments or bead embellishments
- Small starfish or shell
- Paint or glitter (optional)
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Arrange the sand dollars in layered rows, starting with the widest base and working upward, slightly overlapping each shell for fullness.
Step 2: Use hot glue to attach each shell to your cone form or wood frame. Let each layer dry before adding the next.
Step 3: Once the tree is formed, glue a starfish to the top as a beachy tree topper.
Step 4: Decorate with tiny baubles, shells, or beads to mimic ornaments and complete the festive touch.
#2. Holiday Character Sand Dollar Ornaments
Why not bring beloved holiday figures to life with these playful sand dollar ornaments.
Each piece is hand-painted to resemble cheerful characters like Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Frosty the Snowman, a Christmas pudding, and the mischievous Grinch.
Also, these whimsical touches add personality to your tree and are perfect for kids’ rooms, gift tags, or as DIY stocking stuffers.
Materials Needed
- 4 real or faux sand dollars
- Acrylic paint (variety of colors)
- Small paintbrushes and fine liners
- Ribbon or twine
- Hot glue gun or craft glue
- Optional: glitter, sealant spray
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Clean and dry your sand dollars. If needed, give them a quick base coat in white for a clean slate.
Step 2: Paint each sand dollar with a different holiday face, you can use references for details like the Grinch’s sly grin or Rudolph’s antlers.
Step 3: Add glitter for sparkle or sealant for protection once the paint is dry.
Step 4: Hot glue a ribbon loop to the back of each for easy hanging.
#3. Hand-Painted Beach Sand Dollar Ornaments
Wow, these charming hand-painted sand dollars bring the beach straight to your tree or wall.
Each one is transformed into a unique coastal scene such as sun-kissed palm trees, sandy shores, and calming waves capturing the peaceful joy of a seaside holiday.
Plus, beaded hangers featuring ocean-inspired colors and shapes add a playful touch.
Materials Needed
- 3 real or faux sand dollars
- Acrylic paints in beach tones (blues, greens, browns)
- Paintbrushes (fine-tip)
- Wire or clear thread
- Assorted beads and charms
- Glue or a small hand drill (optional)
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Lightly sketch your beach scene directly onto the sand dollar. You can choose themes like ocean waves, palm trees, or a starfish motif.
Step 2: Paint your design using fine brushes. Then layer colors and highlights for a more realistic coastal effect. Let dry completely.
Step 3: Use a thin wire or thread to form a hanging loop. You add beads, shells, or charms to the top for decorative flair.
Step 4: Seal the surface with clear spray or varnish for added durability and shine.
#4. Holiday Sand Dollar Ornaments
What about bringing coastal charm to your Christmas décor with these sand dollar ornaments that blend seaside vibes with festive elegance?
Topped with cheerful red ribbons, sprigs of faux pine, and berry accents, they’re a refreshing alternative to traditional baubles.
Besides, the star feature is a charming sand dollar snowman with a tiny felt top hat, button details, and a satin bow.
Materials Needed
- 3-5 real or faux sand dollars
- Red ribbon or twine
- Miniature pine sprigs and faux berries
- Black marker or paint for snowman details
- Red bow and felt
- Hot glue gun
- Scissors
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Clean and dry your sand dollars if needed. Then attach a looped ribbon on the back of each using hot glue for easy hanging.
Step 2: Decorate the tops with sprigs of faux greenery and berries using hot glue. You position them just above the etched star shape for balance.
Step 3: For the snowman, glue two sand dollars together vertically. Next, add a ribbon scarf, button dots, eyes, and a paper or felt top hat.
Step 4: Let everything set fully before hanging or gifting.
#5. Rustic Framed Sand Dollar and Shell Art
Look at this striking coastal wall piece! It combines natural elegance with rustic charm.
Arranged on a weathered teal wood background, an array of real sand dollars and spiral seashells radiates outward in a geometric, almost mandala-like pattern.
Plus, the framed composition transforms simple beach finds into a captivating, gallery-worthy décor element.
Materials Needed
- 3 real or faux sand dollars (plus a variety of sizes if available)
- Seashells (turret or spiral types work best)
- Wooden frame with a backboard
- Hot glue gun or strong craft adhesive
- Optional: clear sealant
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Arrange your sand dollars in a circular or symmetrical pattern, starting from the center outward.
Step 2: Interspace the larger sand dollars with smaller shells to create visual rhythm.
Step 3: Once you’re satisfied with the layout, glue each piece securely onto the backing.
Step 4: Let it dry completely. Finally, add a clear sealant or protective glass to preserve the design if desired.
#6. Hand-Painted Beach Scene Sand Dollar Ornament
This stunning ornament transforms a simple sand dollar into a serene beach landscape, complete with a palm tree, gentle surf, and flying seabirds.
Each brushstroke adds personality and movement, turning the natural sea treasure into a mini canvas.
Whether used as a summer keepsake or a nautical-themed gift tag, this hand-painted piece feels personal and artistic.
Materials Needed
- 3 real or faux sand dollars
- Acrylic paints (blue, white, brown, green, yellow, black)
- Detail paintbrushes
- Clear sealant (optional)
- Small ribbon or twine
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Clean the sand dollar gently and let it dry completely.
Step 2: Begin painting the background ocean and sky. Then layer with soft clouds and waves.
Step 3: Add a palm tree, tiny seashells, birds, and a starfish to bring the beach to life.
Step 4: Once dry, spray with sealant for protection and durability. You now attach a ribbon for hanging.
#7. Coastal Tic-Tac-Toe Board with Sand Dollars
You can also give game night a breezy, beachy upgrade with this coastal-themed tic-tac-toe board.
Replacing the traditional Xs and Os with delicate sand dollars and petite starfish makes this both a functional game and a coastal coffee table showpiece.
Bonus, the soothing mix of sea textures and rustic wood instantly brings that vacation state of mind to your living space.
Materials Needed
- 3 real or faux sand dollars
- 3 small starfish (faux or dried)
- Wooden board or tray with tic-tac-toe grid
- Glue gun or strong craft adhesive
- Wood stain or paint (optional)
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Prep your wooden board by painting or staining it if you want a more polished look. Let it dry fully.
Step 2: Divide the board into a 3×3 grid using thin wooden strips or painted lines.
Step 3: Carefully place the sand dollars and starfish in alternating positions, making sure they fit neatly inside each square.
Step 4: Glue everything down securely or leave them loose if you prefer an interchangeable set.
#8. Sand Dollar Beach Memory Block
Amazingly, this keepsake project transforms your favorite beach photo into a timeless display piece with coastal flair.
A glass block filled with soft sand cradles a candid vacation shot while real seashells, a starfish, and a pristine sand dollar frame the moment.
Perfect for gifting or preserving that one perfect beach day, this craft is all about storytelling through textures and simple natural elements.
Materials Needed
- 1 glass craft block with opening
- 3 real or faux sand dollars
- Beach sand or white craft sand
- Mini seashells and starfish
- Printed beach photo (trimmed to fit)
- Hot glue or clear craft adhesive
- Optional: LED lights for inside glow
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Fill the bottom of the glass block with a layer of sand, enough to nestle the photo without tipping.
Step 2: Carefully insert the trimmed photo inside and adjust its position to stand upright.
Step 3: Arrange and glue the sand dollar, seashells, and starfish along the outside or inside base for a balanced composition.
Step 4: Let the adhesive dry fully before moving the block. Then add lights inside for a warm beach-glow effect if desired.
#9. Minimalist Coastal Sand Dollar Garland
This elegant garland combines the organic beauty of natural wood beads with delicate white sand dollars, creating a soft, beach-inspired decoration.
Perfect for mantels, windowsills, or across a headboard, it brings a subtle coastal touch to any space.
Also, the simplicity of the design highlights the intricate details of each sand dollar, letting nature take center stage.
Materials You’ll Need
- Twine or jute string
- Wooden beads (natural finish or painted)
- Sand dollars (real or faux, preferably lightweight)
- Small drill (if your sand dollars don’t already have holes)
- Hot glue gun (optional)
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Thread your wooden beads onto the twine, spacing them as you like, clustered together or evenly apart.
Step 2: Carefully drill a small hole at the top of each sand dollar if one isn’t already present.
Step 3: Use separate short loops of twine or thin string to attach each sand dollar to the main strand, tying securely between beads.
Step 4: For extra hold, add a dot of hot glue where the twine meets the sand dollar.
#10. Rustic LOVE Sand Dollar Wall Sign
Simple yet striking, this coastal-inspired wall sign spells out “LOVE” with a charming twist, the “O” replaced by a perfect sand dollar.
Set against a distressed turquoise wood backdrop, the white letters pop beautifully, adding a relaxed beachy vibe to any space.
Whether hung in a seaside cottage or a sunroom far from the shore, this piece brings warmth, nostalgia, and a gentle reminder of summer’s serenity.
Materials Needed
- 1 real or faux sand dollar
- Wooden slat board or reclaimed wood panel
- Wooden or foam letters (L, V, E)
- Paint and brushes (optional for coloring letters or background)
- Twine or sawtooth hanger
- Hot glue gun
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Paint or distress your wood background as desired. Let it dry fully.
Step 2: Arrange the L, sand dollar, V, and E evenly across the board. Then you just mark lightly for placement.
Step 3: Use hot glue to attach each letter and the sand dollar securely.
Step 4: Finally, attach a piece of twine or install a wall hanger on the back.
#11. Shimmering Seafoam Sand Dollar Ornament
Delicate and timeless, this hand-painted seafoam green sand dollar shimmers softly in the light, capturing the essence of ocean serenity.
You can see a translucent white organza bow adds a gentle, romantic touch, while a small metallic sand dollar charm at the center provides a hint of coastal sparkle.
Whether used as a coastal wedding favor, a beach-themed Christmas tree ornament, or a gift topper, it radiates seaside elegance in a beautifully understated way.
Materials Needed
- 1 sand dollar (real or faux)
- Seafoam green acrylic paint (with shimmer or pearl finish)
- White organza ribbon
- Small charm (beach-themed or metallic pendant)
- Hot glue gun or jewelry glue
- Small paintbrush
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Paint the sand dollar in a thin layer of seafoam green acrylic and allow it to dry fully. Then add a second coat for richer shimmer if desired.
Step 2: Tie a neat bow using organza ribbon and glue it securely to the top center of the sand dollar.
Step 3: Attach a small decorative charm just below the bow using a dot of glue or thread it onto the ribbon before tying the bow.
Step 4: Add a small loop of ribbon to the back if you’d like to hang it, or leave it freestanding as part of a table centerpiece or shelf display.
#12. Sea Turtle and Starfish Sand Dollar Art
It’s a great idea to bring a splash of tropical whimsy to your décor with these hand-painted sand dollars, creatively transformed into playful sea turtles and stylized starfish.
Each turtle shell is made from a real scallop shell, accented by painted flippers, while the starfish designs add their own bold flair.
I bet these vibrant pieces celebrate the charm of marine life in a unique and imaginative way.
Materials Needed
- 3 real or faux sand dollars
- Small scallop shells
- Acrylic paint (teal, white, black, green, etc.)
- Paintbrushes (fine and medium)
- Strong adhesive or hot glue gun
- Sealer spray (optional)
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Paint each sand dollar with a bright base color and let it dry thoroughly.
Step 2: Position a scallop shell in the center of the sand dollar. Then glue it down to form the turtle’s shell.
Step 3: Using paint, add turtle flippers around the shell. For starfish, paint bold designs directly onto the surface.
Step 4: Add dotted outlines or fine details for a polished finish. Finally, spray with sealer if desired.
#13. Glittered Seafoam Sand Dollars
Vivid and whimsical, these glittered seafoam sand dollars turn beach treasures into bold statement pieces.
The teal-green paint makes the texture pop, while shimmering glitter and tiny rhinestones add a playful sparkle that catches the light beautifully.
Plus, they’re the perfect mix of natural and glam, ideal for coastal-inspired decor, festive ornaments, or colorful summer garlands.
Whether you hang them from twine, place them in a dish, or gift them as keepsakes, these dainty creations bring beachy energy and handcrafted charm into any space.
Materials Needed
- 3 real or faux sand dollars
- Acrylic paint in seafoam or turquoise
- Fine glitter (matching or complementary)
- Small rhinestones or gem stickers
- Paintbrushes (flat and detail tip)
- Craft glue or Mod Podge
- Clear acrylic sealant (optional)
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Paint each sand dollar in your chosen color, making sure to cover the surface and edges evenly. Let them dry completely.
Step 2: Apply glue to the raised star detail, then dust with glitter. For precision, use a small brush or a toothpick to apply the glue.
Step 3: Add a dab of glue to each notch or outer point, pressing rhinestones into place gently.
Step 4: Finish with a coat of clear sealant to lock in the sparkle and protect the design.
#14. Dot-Painted Mandala Sand Dollar
Covered in intricate dots of turquoise, navy, lavender, and white, the pattern radiates outwards in hypnotic symmetry, drawing your eyes to its elegant details.
The precision and balance of the dotted technique create a meditative, almost spiritual feel.
This project is perfect for slow, mindful crafting sessions. The final piece is both delicate and striking, ideal for beachy boho home decor.
Materials Needed
- 3 real or faux sand dollars
- Acrylic paint in multiple shades (blues, purples, whites)
- Dotting tools or toothpicks
- Paintbrush (optional)
- Sealant spray
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Begin by lightly brushing or spraying the sand dollar with white or neutral base paint if desired. Let dry.
Step 2: Using dotting tools or toothpicks, apply small dots of paint in a symmetrical pattern around the sand dollar’s natural design.
You should build outward from the center in circular formations.
Step 3: Alternate colors and dot sizes to create depth and interest, keeping spacing even.
Step 4: Allow the painted surface to dry thoroughly before sealing with a clear acrylic spray.
#15. Coastal Gift Tag Sand Dollar Plaque
This sweet coastal-themed plaque captures the spirit of the sea with simple charm.
Featuring a painted wood square in ocean blue tones, a centered sand dollar, and a rustic twine bow, it resembles a beachy gift tag.
Besides, small white shell fragments or faux birds enhance the gentle seaside vibe.
Of course, you can hang it on a door, wall, or hook as a lighthearted reminder of the shore.
Materials Needed
- 3 real or faux sand dollars
- Small wood plaque or square base
- Blue acrylic paint and brush
- Twine or jute string
- Hot glue gun
- Tiny shells or craft embellishments
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Paint your wood plaque in a soft ocean-inspired color. Let it dry fully before decorating.
Step 2: Glue a clean sand dollar in the center, and lightly accent the lines with matching paint for extra detail.
Step 3: Use twine to make a bow and attach it to the top. Then add embellishments like small shells or paper birds in the corner.
Step 4: Attach a loop on the back or thread more twine through to hang your plaque wherever you like.
#16. Driftwood and Sand Dollar Coastal Ornaments
How about bringing the magic of beachcombing indoors with these enchanting driftwood and sand dollar ornaments?
Blending sun-bleached wood, ocean-tumbled beads, and delicate treasures like sand dollars and starfish, each ornament evokes a coastal memory frozen in time.
These hanging pieces work beautifully on a beach-themed Christmas tree, as sun porch décor, or simply hanging from doorknobs and hooks for a breezy, relaxed atmosphere.
Materials Needed
- 3 real or faux sand dollars
- Small pieces of driftwood or branches
- Wooden beads or sea glass beads
- Twine or jute string
- Hot glue gun
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Begin by cutting twine into looped lengths for hanging. Then attach the loop ends to your driftwood pieces with glue or by tying.
Step 2: Thread beads onto the twine beneath the wood for added color and texture.
Step 3: Securely glue or tie sand dollars or starfish to the ends of the hanging twine strands.
Step 4: Let everything dry completely before hanging or packaging them up as gifts.
#17. Seaside Sand Dollar Wreath
This stunning wreath celebrates the beauty of the ocean in a minimal yet elegant way.
Dozens of sand dollars are carefully layered in a full circle, creating a coastal-inspired piece that’s ideal for beach homes or summer-themed spaces.
Moreover, the subtle, bleached-white shells catch light beautifully and look timeless against windows, doors, or light walls.
Materials Needed
- 3 real or faux sand dollars (at least 25-30 for a full wreath)
- Flat wreath form (foam or wood)
- Strong hot glue or E6000 adhesive
- Ribbon or twine
- Optional: clear sealant
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Begin by arranging your sand dollars around the wreath form to find your ideal layout. You should alternate sizes for visual texture if available.
Step 2: Secure each sand dollar with a strong adhesive, pressing gently to avoid breaking the delicate shells.
Step 3: Once all pieces are in place, let the wreath fully dry. Then spray lightly with a sealant if you’re displaying it outdoors.
Step 4: Loop a sturdy ribbon or jute at the top to hang your coastal wreath proudly on a door, mirror, or porch.
#18. Ocean-Inspired Blue Sand Dollar Ornaments
These shimmering sand dollar ornaments are hand-painted in soothing coastal blues, accented with soft white sea motifs and delicate starfish details.
Their gradient tones evoke waves lapping at a sandy shore, giving each piece a serene, beachy charm.
Finished with sheer silver or white ribbon for hanging, they make perfect holiday tree ornaments, wedding favors, or coastal décor accents.
Materials Needed
- 3 real or faux sand dollars
- Blue and white acrylic paint
- Small paintbrushes or detail brushes
- Fine glitter (optional)
- Ribbon or string
- Small starfish embellishments (optional)
- Craft sealant or varnish
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Begin by gently cleaning your sand dollars. You can paint the top half in shades of blue, fading into a sandy tone on the lower half.
Step 2: Once dry, add white petal shapes in the classic sand dollar pattern or small starfish accents for a coastal touch.
Step 3: Optionally, dust with a touch of glitter while the paint is still wet for a frosted effect.
Step 4: Seal the surface with a clear craft sealant and allow to dry fully.
Step 5: Loop a ribbon through a small hole at the top and tie securely.
#19. Hanging Sand Dollar Wind Chime
Why not infuse your outdoor space with ocean serenity using this sand dollar wind chime?
Suspended from a rustic driftwood branch, strings of delicate sand dollars alternate with blue glass beads to create a soft, melodic design.
This hanging piece not only looks ethereal as it sways in the breeze, but it also brings a peaceful coastal energy to gardens, patios, or porches.
Materials Needed
- 3 real or faux sand dollars (you’ll need around 15-20 total)
- Sturdy driftwood or a smooth branch
- Clear fishing line
- Decorative beads (glass or wood)
- Drill or needle
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Carefully drill or use an existing hole in each sand dollar to allow for stringing. Be gentle as real sand dollars can be fragile.
Step 2: Thread each sand dollar onto fishing line or twine, adding decorative beads between them for color and balance.
Step 3: Tie each strand securely to your driftwood. Vary lengths to create a cascading effect.
Step 4: Finally, attach a hanger on both ends of the driftwood so it can be displayed easily on a hook, tree, or porch beam.
#20. Sand Dollar Snowman with Yarn Accessories
This charming snowman uses three stacked sand dollars to mimic the classic winter icon, brought to life with thoughtful handmade touches.
You can see a crocheted blue hat and matching scarf give it personality and warmth, while twig arms and a tiny shell nose add a delightful natural twist.
Whether hung as a wall piece or used as part of a holiday centerpiece, this craft captures that nostalgic, handcrafted holiday magic you just can’t buy in stores.
Materials Needed
- 3 real or faux sand dollars
- Blue yarn
- Small seashell or polymer clay carrot
- Two small twigs
- Hot glue gun
- Black paint or marker
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Stack and glue three sand dollars vertically to form the snowman’s body.
Step 2: Make or crochet a miniature winter hat and scarf. Then wrap the scarf around the neck and glue both in place.
Step 3: Insert and glue twigs into the sides as arms. You now attach a shell or small nose to the center of the top sand dollar.
Step 4: Add painted eyes and buttons using a dotting tool or brush. Optionally, sprinkle with glitter for a frosted look.
#21. Elegant Beach Memory Jar for Coastal Bathrooms
How about transforming your bathroom into a seaside escape with this stunning apothecary-style glass jar?
It’s greatly filled to the brim with hand-picked sand dollars, starfish, and assorted seashells. It’s a simple yet impactful décor piece that evokes sunlit shores and salty breezes.
Perfect for countertop display, this jar serves as both a visual delight and a container for your cherished beach finds.
Materials Needed
- A tall, clear glass jar with a lid (cylinder or apothecary style)
- Sand dollars (real or faux)
- Starfish and assorted seashells
- Small pebbles, beach sand, or crushed coral (optional)
- Tweezers
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Add a layer of crushed shells or fine sand to the bottom of the jar if desired for extra texture.
Step 2: Gently layer sand dollars along the sides first, allowing their circular shapes to face outward for visibility.
Step 3: Fill the center with a variety of seashells, coral fragments, and small stones for dimension.
Step 4: Place a few accent pieces like a starfish or spiral shell near the top to give the arrangement a natural, cascading look.
Step 5: Finally, seal with the lid and set it on your vanity, shelf, or even in a guest bathroom to instantly elevate the coastal vibe.
#22. Framed Sand Dollar Art
Elegant and full of meaning, this framed wall art combines natural sand dollars with the beloved poem “The Legend of the Sand Dollar”.
Mounted on soft neutral matting with a weathered wood frame, this piece brings a gentle coastal ambiance to any space.
Plus, the poetic inscription and trio of real or faux sand dollars make this a heartwarming decorative piece or a thoughtful gift with spiritual symbolism and seaside charm.
Materials Needed
- 3 real or faux sand dollars
- Printed copy of “The Legend of the Sand Dollar” poem
- Shadowbox or deep-set frame (11×14 or larger)
- Decorative scrapbook paper
- Glue dots or adhesive mounting squares
- Optional: small printed ocean photo or background insert
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Trim your poem and any background images to fit your frame’s dimensions. Then arrange everything on your mat or backing board before gluing.
Step 2: Secure the poem to one side using glue dots or double-sided tape. You need to place a soft background paper behind it if desired.
Step 3: Attach the sand dollars vertically along one edge of the mat board with glue dots or adhesive tabs, spacing them evenly for a clean aesthetic.
Step 4: Carefully place the finished layout inside your shadowbox frame. Close and secure the backing.
Step 5: Hang it in a cozy reading nook, coastal bathroom, or give it as a meaningful beach-themed gift.
