I’ve been playing with Coastal Summer DIY Home Decor Crafts all season and it’s been so rewarding. Small handmade pieces — think shells, driftwood, rope, and soft linen — bring a relaxed beach feeling to entryways, porches, and light-filled living rooms.
These Coastal Summer DIY Home Decor Crafts work well because they mix weathered textures with airy colors: whitewashed wood, sea-glass greens, sandy neutrals, and warm jute.
I’ll share ideas that fit a sunroom, a compact balcony, or a breezy guest room, along with easy styling hints I actually use at home.
Driftwood wall art with seashell mosaic
This project layers weathered driftwood pieces into a framed mosaic sprinkled with small shells and beach glass. Materials include reclaimed driftwood, craft glue, a shallow wooden frame, and a pale aqua paint wash for subtle highlights. Textures contrast rough, sun-bleached wood with glossy shell surfaces and soft sand tones. The palette leans toward whitewashed neutrals, seafoam green, and muted coral accents, making the piece calm and coastal without feeling busy. I like to hang one over a narrow console so it feels collected, like a memory from a day at the shore.
Styling Tips
- Position at eye level above a slim console or bench.
- Pair with a small vase of dried seagrass to echo textures.
- Use soft LED picture lights for evening glow.
Rope-wrapped mason jar lanterns for patios
Turn ordinary mason jars into coastal lanterns by wrapping them with natural rope and adding sand and a votive inside. Materials are glass jars, sisal or jute rope, hot glue, and white sand or tiny pebbles. The texture is tactile: rough rope against smooth glass, with a warm candle glow. Color choices stay neutral — tan rope, clear glass, ivory candles — with an optional hint of navy ribbon at the neck for contrast. I cluster three different heights on a porch table; they make evening conversations feel seaside casual.
Styling Tips
- Use battery-operated candles for safe, outdoor-friendly light.
- Mix jar sizes and rope thicknesses for interest.
- Add a sprig of rosemary or eucalyptus inside for scent and greenery.
Nautical knot curtain tiebacks (how-to)
Create oversized knot tiebacks from cotton rope to anchor airy curtains with coastal charm. This craft uses soft cotton rope, fabric glue, and a simple overhand knot or Turk’s head knot for a decorative finish. The feel is cozy and tactile, with rope fibers contrasting against lightweight linen curtains. Keep the color palette simple: off-white rope, natural linen, and hints of navy trim if desired. I made a pair for my sunroom and love how they add weight and rhythm to otherwise floaty curtains without competing with the view outside.
Styling Tips
- Measure curtain stack-back to size the knot accordingly.
- Add small brass hooks behind drapery for secure hanging.
- Try dyed rope in soft blue for a subtle coastal pop.
Sea glass wind chimes that sing softly
Assemble sea glass, thin driftwood, and small metal washers into a lightweight wind chime that tinkles with a seaside breath. Use fishing line or clear nylon thread to suspend pieces from a sanded driftwood bar. Textures combine frosted sea glass, smoothed wood, and gentle metal rings. The color story is coastal: soft greens, aqua, and pale blues set against natural wood. Hang it near a screened porch or window where breezes create a gentle melody; every time it moves I’m reminded of afternoons shell hunting with family.
Styling Tips
- Vary lengths for a layered sound and visual flow.
- Balance heavier pieces toward the middle for stability.
- Store indoors during storms to preserve delicate glass.
Painted oyster shell place card holders
Use oyster shells as miniature place card holders with a light touch of paint on the inner rim. Supplies include fairly flat oyster shells, acrylic paint in soft hues, and small kraft cards. The shells’ pearly interiors catch light, contrasting with matte painted edges. Keep the palette coastal: pearl white, soft coral, seafoam, and muted navy for simple lettering. I tried these at a summer lunch; they felt personal and showed off little handwriting. They’re ideal for dining tables, window sills, or dressing trays when not hosting.
Styling Tips
- Write names with a fine-tip marker for neat calligraphy.
- Cluster a few shells on a tray between place settings.
- Match paint colors to napkins or table runners for cohesion.
Mini sailboat shelves from reclaimed wood
Craft small sailboat-shaped shelves from reclaimed wood and thin canvas sails to display succulents or tiny keepsakes. Materials include reclaimed pine, whitewash stain, small brackets, and canvas scraps. The texture balances rough wood grain with crisp canvas, and finishes can range from bleached to faintly painted. Choose a palette of warm wood tones, crisp white, and a touch of navy or mustard for contrast. I hung a trio in a hallway; they feel playful yet tidy, like a child’s memory tucked into a grown-up gallery wall.
Styling Tips
- Anchor a trio in a staggered arrangement for visual movement.
- Keep objects small and light to protect the shelf.
- Seal with matte varnish for easy dusting and durability.
Shell-embellished picture frames, handmade charm
Glue an assortment of shells onto plain wooden frames for personal, coastal photo displays. Gather flat shells, small starfish, and tiny sand dollars, then arrange them along one or more frame edges. Textures mix shell ridges with matte wood or painted frames; a whitewashed finish ties everything together. Stick to muted coastal colors — soft sand, pale blue, and cream — so photos stand out. I like framing beach snapshots this way; each frame carries a bit of the trip and becomes a small conversation starter on a mantel or shelf.
Styling Tips
- Keep shells lightweight to avoid frame warping.
- Use museum adhesive for a clean, long-lasting hold.
- Group frames of different sizes on a floating shelf for a collected look.
Seagrass braided rug corner accent
Weave a small seagrass rug or braide a circular mat to add organic texture to a sunny corner. Materials include seagrass or jute cord, a heavy-duty needle, and a dab of craft glue to finish the end. The rug’s tactile surface pairs well with linen cushions and rattan furniture, offering a warm, sandy tone against pale floors. Color stays natural and earthy, often with a faint amber or tan. I set one beneath a reading chair; it grounds the spot and feels reassuring underfoot on bare summer nights.
Styling Tips
- Keep it small near chairs to protect flooring from traffic.
- Pair with a soft throw in muted blue for contrast.
- Vacuum gently and air outdoors occasionally to freshen fibers.
Beach-sand candles in glass votives
Create layered votives by pouring sand, sea glass, and a candle into clear glass holders for a soft, coastal table accent. Use fine beach sand or decorative craft sand, small shells, and unscented pillar candles. The texture is layered — gritty sand, smooth glass, and a soft flicker — and the palette sticks with neutral sand tones and translucent sea hues. I arrange several on a driftwood tray to make a low centerpiece that feels calm and lived-in. They’re great for evenings when overhead lighting is too bright.
Styling Tips
- Choose wider glass for stability with taller candles.
- Trim wicks to control flame size and keep smoke minimal.
- Place on heatproof surfaces and never leave burning unattended.
Driftwood mirror frame, weathered coastal vibe
Surround a round mirror with staggered driftwood pieces to create a sunburst-style frame with natural texture. Collect lengths of driftwood, sand and seal them, then attach to a backing around the mirror edge. The mix of smooth, sun-bleached wood contrasts with reflective glass, and a neutral palette of bleached whites, pale grays, and raw wood tones keeps it airy. This mirror brings light into a narrow entry or bath and feels like a find from a day at the beach — always a mood lifter when I pass it.
Styling Tips
- Seal wood with matte clear coat to protect indoors.
- Mount above a slim console for a focused reflection area.
- Balance with small glass vases on the console to echo textures.
Jute and lace runner with beachy shells
Combine jute ribbon and a strip of vintage lace to stitch a table runner that mixes rustic and delicate coastal notes. Add sewn-on clusters of tiny shells or a single row of shells tied with twine. The texture pairs coarse jute with soft cotton lace; color stays neutral with warm tan, cream, and whispers of driftwood gray. I lay mine across a dining table for casual brunches; it anchors place settings without hiding wood grain. The runner reads informal yet thoughtful — a small handmade detail guests notice right away.
Styling Tips
- Keep centerpieces low so the runner remains visible.
- Machine-stitch edges for durability if you expect spills.
- Spot clean shells and lace separately when needed.
Coastal map decoupage trays, summer-ready
Decoupage small wooden trays with vintage coastal maps, sealing them with a glossy finish for a personal serving or catchall. Use Mod Podge or similar adhesive, sanded tray edges, and a light beachy palette from the map: soft teal, sand, and faded navy. The texture is smooth and glossy on top, with slightly distressed edges revealing wood grain. I keep one near the front door for sunglasses and keys; it’s both functional and a subtle travel memento that sparks happy conversations when guests arrive.
Styling Tips
- Line under glassware with cork pads to prevent scratching.
- Coordinate tray colors with nearby textiles for a pulled-together look.
- Seal with multiple clear coats for longevity.
Floating candle centerpiece with citrus twist
Float small votives and citrus slices in a shallow glass bowl with water to make a bright centerpiece that smells faintly fresh. Use glass bowls, tealight holders, slices of lemon or orange, and a few sprigs of mint or rosemary. The look pairs glossy citrus tones with clear water and a hint of green, adding a lively pop to pale linens. I assemble these for late-afternoon gatherings; they’re cheerful but low profile, perfect for long tables where conversation is the main event rather than elaborate decor.
Styling Tips
- Swap citrus for thin lime slices for a greener hue.
- Place on a mirrored tray to double the glow of flames.
- Refresh water and slices daily to keep the scent clean.
Hammock-inspired hanging chair from rope
Craft a casual hanging chair using a sturdy wooden spreader bar and woven rope seat to create a breezy reading nook. Materials are hardwood bar, marine-grade rope, canvas or linen cushion, and a strong ceiling hook rated for weight. The weave brings open texture while the cushion adds soft linen contrast; color choices are sand, off-white, and a coastal navy accent pillow. I hung one on a covered porch and it instantly became the place to nap with a paperback and a cold drink within reach.
Styling Tips
- Check ceiling joists and use proper hardware for safety.
- Add a weather-resistant cushion if the chair stays outdoors.
- Layer a throw over one arm for chilly evenings.
Starfish wreath with washed blue ribbon
Glue small starfish and tiny shells to a grapevine ring, then finish with a washed-blue ribbon for hanging. Use natural grapevine, lightweight starfish, and linen ribbon treated with a color wash for a worn look. Texture joins rough vine with smooth starfish and soft fabric; colors are driftwood gray, soft navy-blue ribbon, and cream shell tones. I hung one on an interior door and love how it gives a subtle nod to the ocean without feeling childish, often greeting friends with a warm, summery note.
Styling Tips
- Hang on an interior door to avoid sun fading outdoors.
- Rotate seasonally with a small sprig of eucalyptus for scent.
- Secure starfish with a dab of hot glue and extra wire for durability.
Beach finds shadow boxes for memories
Create compact shadow boxes to preserve and display small beach finds like tickets, tiny shells, and dried seaweed strips. Use shallow wooden boxes, acid-free backing, and archival mounting tape for delicate pieces. The result is a layered texture of paper, shell, and fabric with a muted coastal palette: sandy beiges, faded teal, and shell white. I tuck these on a narrow shelf with small spotlights; they make a calm, museum-like nod to trips and feel more intentional than a jumbled jar on a coffee table.
Styling Tips
- Label dates and places on the backing for lasting memory context.
- Group boxes in odd-numbered clusters on shelves.
- Use velvet or linen backing to elevate the presentation.
Rope-wrapped pendant light over dining table
Wrap a simple pendant shade with natural rope to add texture and a coastal silhouette above a dining table. Materials include a plain drum shade, natural jute rope, strong adhesive, and a coordinating bulb with warm light. The shade’s texture is coarse and organic, contrasting with sleek tabletop surfaces; palette stays neutral with tan rope, white shade underlayer, and warm amber light. I swapped a factory shade for this and the room instantly felt more relaxed, as if the light was wearing a seaside sweater rather than industrial armor.
Styling Tips
- Leave the bottom open to maintain good task lighting.
- Wrap tightly and glue in short sections to avoid gaps.
- Use a dimmer switch for mood adjustments at dinner.
Seashell garland across the mantel
String a variety of shells on cotton twine to form a loose, casual garland draped across a mantel or headboard. Use drilled shells or tie small bundles with twine, mixing textures and sizes for rhythm. The look combines pearly shells with soft twine and occasional wooden beads; colors are cream, soft peach, and pale turquoise. I switch mine out each season, but in summer it feels light and breezy, adding movement above framed art or a mirror without competing with other decor elements on the mantel shelf.
Styling Tips
- Drape in gentle swags rather than taut lines for a relaxed feel.
- Secure ends with clear tape or small hooks to stay put.
- Mix in tiny fairy lights for a soft evening glow.
Coastal herb planter with painted terracotta pots
Upcycle terracotta pots with a chalky sea-colored paint and plant fragrant herbs for a kitchen window herb garden with coastal character. Materials include small pots, chalk paint in muted aqua or sand, twine accents, and herbs like basil, thyme, and mint. The texture is rough clay softened by matte paint and green leaves; palette balances seafoam hues with deep herb greens and terracotta undertones. I line mine along the sill and love snipping a sprig while cooking; the scent feels like summer itself rolled into a tiny planter.
Styling Tips
- Use saucers to protect the sill from water damage.
- Group pots in odd numbers for visual interest.
- Label each pot with a slate or wooden tag for quick identification.
Pebble mosaic stepping stone for garden paths
Create a small pebble mosaic in a stepping stone mold to add a handmade coastal marker along garden paths. Use smooth pebbles, quick-setting cement, and optional glass accents for sparkle. The finished texture is firm and tactile with pebble tops and subtle grout lines; palette ranges from sandy beiges and grays to sea-glass blues if you add glass. I place one near the herb bed as a playful touch; it feels like a tiny coastal stepping-stone that guides guests through sunny corners of the yard.
Styling Tips
- Level the base area and allow full curing time for strength.
- Seal the finished stone to protect colors from fading.
- Use contrasting grout to make pebble patterns pop.
Bottle brush tree beachy tabletop decor
Paint small bottle brush trees in sea-glass tones and dust them with coarse sand or glitter for tabletop arrangements that nod to dunes. Use bottle brush trees, watered-down acrylic paint, and a light adhesive to catch sand. The texture is soft bristle with grainy sand at the base, and the palette favors mint, pale aqua, and sandy beige. I cluster three varying heights on a tray with a shell and a candle for a miniature coastal landscape that’s playful and low fuss, easy to move when hosts arrive.
Styling Tips
- Glue trees into small wood disks for stability.
- Combine with tiny pebbles for a more natural base.
- Vary tree heights to create depth within the vignette.