About Shelly’s Creations

It started with a few shells and nap time.

Shelly’s Creations began when my kids were toddlers. I wanted to take them shelling and make Christmas ornaments together—which, as anyone with toddlers can imagine, was a little more chaotic than I had envisioned.

But I fell in love with the shells.

I started collecting them on my own and spending nap times at home turning what I found into little creations. What began as a creative outlet during those early stay-at-home-mom years slowly grew into something I never expected: a business filled with one-of-a-kind pieces and custom commissions.

Today, I create sculptural art using real shells, bits and pieces that I personally forage, primarily along the shores of Tampa Bay and during my travels. Every piece is built entirely by hand, shell by shell. I don’t use molds or pre-made forms, which means no two pieces can ever be exactly alike.

My work has evolved from those first little ornaments into everything from shell flowers and coastal sculptures to incredibly detailed custom pet portraits and full sculptures. Some pieces begin with an idea I’ve been wanting to bring to life; others begin with a photo and a story someone sends me.

Either way, I love taking something found by the water and turning it into something completely unexpected.

What started as a creative outlet during nap time has grown into something I am incredibly proud of. My work has since been featured in The New Barker magazine, and my shell dog mirror was awarded 1st place at the Sanibel Shell Show in 2026. 

Found by the water. Formed by hand. Made to be yours.

— Shelly
Shelly’s Creations