Ideas for Tile-Top Patio Tables With Shells

Patio tables need to be durable enough to withstand exposure to the elements. A tile-topped table is a good option for keeping on the patio because the tile is waterproof. Incorporating shells into the table's design brings a hint of the beach to your patio. If you choose to tile a patio table yourself, adding seashells becomes even easier. Does this Spark an idea?

Edging

Apply tile to the table and allow the grout to dry, then line the vertical edges of the table with small shells. This can also be done to decorate a purchased table with a tiled top. Shells placed along the vertical edges of the tabletop will not be readily visible from above, but when you sit at the table you will see the shells on the sides. Secure the shells in a line of cement or use waterproof craft glue to attach the shells. Select shells the same thickness as the edge of the tabletop, and use shells of the same size to give the table a uniform look. Once the seashells are secured, paint them to match the tiles or leave the shells their natural color.

Tile Spacing

If you are laying the tile on your patio table yourself, leave enough space on the tabletop between the tiles for rows of seashells to be pressed into the grout to form a pattern. The grout will seal the space between the tiles and hold the shells on the table. Use small craft shells that match the colors in the tiles.

Mosaic

Break up tile and combine them with shells to make a mosaic.

Create a mosaic on the tabletop from broken tiles and shells if you are starting from scratch and tiling the table yourself. Using a combination of tiles and shells creates differences in texture that add visual interest to the tabletop design. Evenly space the shells and tile pieces to create a design, and use different colors of tile bits and seashells to create areas of color in the design. Since seashells are part of the mosaic design, use images inspired by the sea. For instance, if you want to make a mosaic of a fish, make the outline of seashells and fill it in with broken pieces of bright yellow or orange tiles. Surround the outside of the fish mosaic with blue tile bits to look like water.

Shell Cupholders

Create your own cupholders on the tiled top of a patio table out of shells. Glue a circle of shells around a large drinking glass placed on the table top. Attach more layers of shells on top of the first layer until the shells reach halfway up the side of the drinking glass. Leave the glass in place while the glue dries. When you remove the glass, you will have a cylindrical cupholder on top of the table so drinks enjoyed outside will be less likely to be tipped over or fall of the slick surface of the table.