So I fell down a mermaid craft rabbit hole last week and I need to talk about it. Like, I thought mermaid stuff was just for kids’ birthday parties, but then I made a mermaid-themed succulent planter and now my apartment looks like an underwater boutique and I’m not even sorry.
There’s something about the whole aesthetic – the iridescent colors, the scales, the ocean vibes – that just works. And the best part? Most of these crafts are super easy and don’t require fancy supplies.
Why Mermaid Crafts Are Having a Moment
Mermaid aesthetic is essentially an excuse to use all the prettiest colors together. Turquoise, purple, pink, seafoam green, holographic everything. It’s whimsical without being childish, and honestly, who doesn’t need a little magic in their life?
Plus, with the whole coastal grandmother trend and ocean-core vibes happening, mermaid crafts fit right in. They’re beachy, they’re dreamy, and they make great gifts.
Easy Mermaid Crafts You Can Actually Do
1. Mermaid Hair Brush
2. Sea Shell Candles
3. Mermaid Puppets Made Out of Paper or Fabric
4. Jellyfish Decoration
5. Mermaid Phonecase with Seashells and Pearls
6. Mermaid Crown or Headband
Create a mermaid-inspired crown with shells, pearls, and starfish.
Base: Use a simple headband or make a wire crown base.
Decorations: Hot glue shells, pearls, small starfish, even some tulle or netting for that underwater vibe.
Color scheme: Keep it natural with whites and creams, or go colorful with painted shells.
Perfect for photoshoots, festivals, or just feeling fancy at home. No judgment.
7. Shell Mirror Frame
Decorate a plain mirror frame with shells, pearls, and ocean-themed embellishments.
What you need: Plain mirror (from dollar store or craft store), hot glue gun, shells, small starfish, pearls, maybe some rope or netting.
Design: Cover the frame completely or just accent the corners.
Finish: Spray with clear sealer to protect everything.
This is one of those crafts that looks way more difficult than it actually is.
8. Mermaid House
The Color Palettes That Work Best
Classic mermaid: Teal, purple, seafoam green, iridescent shimmer.
Pink mermaid: Rose gold, coral, blush pink, pearl white.
Dark mermaid: Deep blues, emerald green, black, gold accents.
Pastel mermaid: Baby blue, lavender, mint, soft pink.
Tropical mermaid: Bright turquoise, hot pink, orange, yellow.
Pick a palette and stick with it for a cohesive look, or mix them if you want that maximalist vibe.
Supplies You’ll Use Over and Over
If you’re getting into mermaid crafts, these are worth having on hand:
- Iridescent or holographic paint/powder
- Shells (real or craft store)
- Acrylic paint in blues, greens, purples
- Hot glue gun
- Pearl beads in various sizes
- Clear gloss sealer
- Glitter (biodegradable if possible)
- Metallic markers or paint pens
Most craft stores have a shell/beach section where you can stock up.
Making It Your Own
The best part about mermaid crafts is that there’s no one right way to do them. Your style might be more natural and beachy, or super sparkly and maximalist, or dark and moody. All of it works.
I tend to go for the more subtle, coastal vibe with natural shells and soft colors. My friend does full-on glitter explosion mermaid crafts and they’re gorgeous too. It’s all about what makes you happy.
The Projects I Want to Try Next
I’m dying to try making a mermaid tail wind chime with shells and sea glass. Also considering making resin jewelry with actual seaweed or small shells embedded in it. And I saw someone make mermaid scale drink tumblers that were gorgeous.
The possibilities are honestly endless once you start looking at everyday items through a mermaid lens. Can I paint mermaid scales on it? Then I’m considering it.
Why This Actually Matters
Okay, so making mermaid crafts isn’t going to change the world. But having a creative hobby that makes you happy? That matters. Making something beautiful with your hands? That matters.
Plus, there’s something really satisfying about looking around your space and seeing things you made yourself. It makes your home feel more personal and special.
So grab some paint and shells and make something sparkly. Your inner kid who believed in mermaids will thank you.