Every Shell Tells a Story! What is Your Story?
Behind Shell Tales
If you’re unsure which photo to use, you may email an image in advance for a quick review. I may recommend:
Cropping or adjustments
A different photo that works better with the natural shape of a shell
In some cases, I may return a lightly edited preview to help you visualize how the image will look. Final creation begins after purchase.
Email your high-resolution photo to
shelltalescapemay [!at] yahoo.com or
shelltalescapemay.etsy.com
REVIEWS
A few happy customers 💕 See more reviews under shelltalescapemay.etsy.com
“Barbara was so accommodating and easy to work with. I was in a time crunch and Barbara went above and beyond to ensure I received the shell even earlier than expected! The shell turned out beautiful, I can’t wait to gift it to my friend!”
Growing up, summers at the Jersey Shore were magical, filled with waves, sandcastles, and buckets of shells. My lifelong love for the beach is the inspiration for Shell Tales Cape May, where I transform nature’s treasures into a unique ‘canvas’ for your cherished photographs. Celebrate those special moments with a Cape May Shell Tale, and may it bring you as much joy as I’ve found in creating it.
What is a Shell Tale?
A shell tale is a photo that has been transferred into a shell. It is created through photo transferring, a process that moves a photograph from paper onto a seashell, making the image an integral part of the shell—not simply decoupaged on the shell. Each photo is carefully edited to fit and enhance placement, turning your memories into a unique keepsake.
What is the difference between photo-transferring and decoupage?
2. Apply Medium: Coat the photo with a transfer medium
3. Press & Dry: Press the photo face-down on the surface and let it dry 24 hours
4. After 24 Hours: Gently rub off the paper to leave the image on the surface.
5. Seal and Decorate!
Result: The photo transfers into the shell- a labor of love for you!
2. Glue: Attach the pieces to the surface using decoupage glue.
3. Seal: Apply multiple layers of varnish to seal and smooth.
Result: Decorative elements sit on the surface, sealed and polished.
Next Steps
Pre-Order Photo Review What is a Shell Tale?
A shell tale is a photo that has been transferred into a shell. It is created through photo transferring, a process that moves a photograph from paper onto a seashell, making the image an integral part of the shell—not simply decoupaged on the shell. Each photo is carefully edited to fit and enhance placement, turning your memories into a unique keepsake.
What is the difference between photo-transferring and decoupage?
Photo Transferring
: Seamlessly transform a photo onto a surface, like a seashell.
1. Print & Prepare: Edit and print a photo using a laser printer.2. Apply Medium: Coat the photo with a transfer medium
3. Press & Dry: Press the photo face-down on the surface and let it dry 24 hours
4. After 24 Hours: Gently rub off the paper to leave the image on the surface.
5. Seal and Decorate!
Result: The photo transfers into the shell- a labor of love for you!
Decoupage
: Decorate a surface with layered cutouts for a polished finish.
1. Cut & Arrange: Choose your designs (paper, fabric) and cut them out.2. Glue: Attach the pieces to the surface using decoupage glue.
3. Seal: Apply multiple layers of varnish to seal and smooth.
Result: Decorative elements sit on the surface, sealed and polished.
Next Steps
If you’re unsure which photo to use, you may email an image in advance for a quick review. I may recommend:
Cropping or adjustments
A different photo that works better with the natural shape of a shell
In some cases, I may return a lightly edited preview to help you visualize how the image will look. Final creation begins after purchase.
Email your high-resolution photo to
shelltalescapemay [!at] yahoo.com or
shelltalescapemay.etsy.com
REVIEWS
A few happy customers 💕 See more reviews under shelltalescapemay.etsy.com
“Barbara was so accommodating and easy to work with. I was in a time crunch and Barbara went above and beyond to ensure I received the shell even earlier than expected! The shell turned out beautiful, I can’t wait to gift it to my friend!”
“Such an incredibly kind shop owner!!! This special gift made my Mama tear up when I gave it to her! Can't recommend it enough!”
“Working with Barbara was a joy. She created a unique gift that will be cherished for years to come” “The quality and beauty of the shells that I have ordered from Shelltales has exceeded my expectations. The artist is very adept with photoshop . She captures the emotion and memory that is inspired from the photos that I have sent to her. Barb offered many options and was so patient and kind to work with. Her creativity is amazing. My delivery arrived sooner than I expected and was packaged with such care. The shells are placed in well made containers that are ready to give to my loved ones. This gift has brought joy to family and friends from all over the world. I will continue placing my trust in Barbara's talented hands as I continue to give more beautiful shells as gifts and for myself!”
“Working with Barbara was a joy. She created a unique gift that will be cherished for years to come” “The quality and beauty of the shells that I have ordered from Shelltales has exceeded my expectations. The artist is very adept with photoshop . She captures the emotion and memory that is inspired from the photos that I have sent to her. Barb offered many options and was so patient and kind to work with. Her creativity is amazing. My delivery arrived sooner than I expected and was packaged with such care. The shells are placed in well made containers that are ready to give to my loved ones. This gift has brought joy to family and friends from all over the world. I will continue placing my trust in Barbara's talented hands as I continue to give more beautiful shells as gifts and for myself!”
“Barbara was absolutely wonderful to work with and was incredibly accomodating to my unique requests. She designed a beautiful shell for me to gift my friend and the whole experience was seamless!”