Sailors’ Valentines by Julie Loeschke

Most of us are familiar with the beautiful sea shell mosaics referred to as “Sailors’ Valentines”.

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For years they were believed to have been crafted aboard ship by the sailors themselves for their sweethearts.  Now, we have come to understand that the vast majority were actually purchased by the sailors as souvenirs for those back home.  The greater majority were crafted by the women and girls on the island of Barbados, where the valentines became a large cottage industry.  This in no way diminishes the gifts, however.  It’s the thought that counts, right?

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While the originals are amazing, they started me thinking.  What if the tables were turned?  What if the sweethearts, wives and maybe daughters of the sea-bound presented loving made, shell-decorated, sentimental reminders of affection to their husbands, lovers and dear Papas as the men head off to an uncertain future on the sea?

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Thus was born my vision of the Sailors’ Valentines.

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Method:

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1. Trace wood ornament pieces onto decorative papers and images.

2. Cut out small interior details with an X-Acto knife, then cut out the larger pieces.

3. Attach the papers to the wood pieces with a glue stick.Be sure to go over the edges.Brayer,weight and allow pieces to dry.  If you prefer, paint some with metallic paint. I used Pewter Distress stain.

4. Trim any overhang and then sand the edges gently to remove any excess. Ink the edges if desired.

5. Assemble the pieces with wet glue.  See photos for suggestions.

6. Add shells,beads and fibers.I found it helped to seat the beads if I used a needle to punch through the paper, the little holes around the edges of some of the pieces.Print out and attach message banners , if desired.  I like to use Glossy Accents or a similar adhesive for shells and beads.  The small nozzle allows for precision application.

7. Stain the backs of your finished pieces.

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Suggested Materials & Supplies:

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I used the Large Fancy Ornaments pictured here (there are smaller sizes available, as well):

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~PaperWhimsy Fancy Cameos~

~Small sea shells~

Beads: coral and pearl

Ribbon or other fibers (sea-weed fibers would be awesome!)

~Decorative papers~

Parchment Papers

Metallic paints

Distress Inks for antiquing and staining

The following PaperWhimsy Images:

~Ivory & Black Suite 01~

~Sheet 131~, ~Sheet 311~, ~Sheet 296~

~Digi 035~, ~Digi 036~, ~Digi 037~

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I hope you enjoy creating your valentines,and if you have any questions,please let me know. Enjoy!

Julesxo.