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Mosaic Marine Animal Wall Art

Create an ocean-inspired sculpture using cardboard, air-dry clay, and mosaic-style tiles or sea glass! You can carefully find sea glass on the beach, make sure the edges are smooth.




Introduction


What You’ll Make: A bold, mosaic-style marine animal crafted from recycled cardboard and decorated with clay and blue tile pieces or sea glass. It’s the perfect mix of art and ocean love.


Why It’s Eco-Friendly: This craft uses recycled materials and non-toxic air-dry clay to create beautiful art while reducing waste.


Materials Needed

  • Recycled cardboard (thick and sturdy)

  • Pencil & scissors or craft knife (with supervision)

  • Non-toxic air-dry clay (like Crayola or similar)

  • Small mosaic tiles, faux sea glass, or broken recycled tile pieces

  • Non-toxic craft glue

  • White paint (optional – to coat the base)

  • Paintbrush

  • Newspaper or craft mat (for mess-free crafting)


Instructions

Step 1: Draw & Cut Your Shark (or Marine Animal)

  • Sketch a shark silhouette onto your cardboard.

  • Carefully cut it out—aim for a shape wide enough to decorate.


Step 2: Cover with Clay

  • Roll or press your air-dry clay directly onto the shark shape.

  • Smooth it over to form a consistent base layer about ¼ inch thick.

  • Be sure to press the clay gently into the edges to follow the shark’s shape.


Step 3: Decorate with Mosaic Tiles or Sea Glass

  • Before the clay dries, gently press pieces of sea glass or tile into the surface in a mosaic pattern.

  • Arrange pieces to create interesting shapes and flow, like waves or stripes.

  • Allow the entire piece to dry flat overnight.



Final Touches

  • If you want to hang it, glue a loop of twine or ribbon to the back.

  • You can also mount it on a wood block or recycled canvas for a more permanent display.


Eco-Tip

Collecting broken tile scraps or imitation sea glass is a great way to reuse what might otherwise end up as waste—turning trash into ocean treasure!



Use It & Celebrate Its Impact


Ideas for How to Use It

  • Display during ocean-themed art shows or Earth Day.

  • Use in a sea life lesson or conservation-themed classroom.

  • Give as a handmade gift with an ocean message.


Why It’s Eco-Friendly

  • Encourages upcycling of cardboard and reused tile or glass pieces.

  • Avoids plastic or disposable craft materials.

  • Inspires ocean awareness through hands-on creativity.


Craft created by Coach B in collaboration with the Dania Beach Arts Program.

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