Mermaid Echo's Freshwater Top Build - follow my journey!

[MermaidEcho]

Hello dear mers!

I want to make a new top that is natural and freshwater themed. I have a beautiful purple tigerpaw shell top right now, but I want something that looks like I could make it out of what I might find in my river. I also just want to see if I am crafty enough to make my own top ;) Right now the plan is for it to lilipad-esque with greens, browns, and neutral tones. Please pitch in with suggestions, tips, and tricks! Click the link to see what I have so far:

https://photos.app.goo.gl/LtbWjvGjiu8TA1Hk1

[MermaidEcho]

Update: I went shopping today and I have drastically changed my plans. I think now I'll use these tigerpaws (even though they aren't freshwater shells) and coat them in resin. Has anyone used resin before? Tips?

Still deciding if I want to put pearls on the shells. What do you think?
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170731/d15625986c29ab9cf357d7e1541d0f93.jpg

Sent from my SM-G930P using MerNetwork mobile app (http://r.tapatalk.com/byo?rid=95032)

[MermaidEcho]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170801/d879a0996f08b9ff8ec60a6c65d2cf28.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170801/4315d3f2ad9cc3357ddfa158f18445b3.jpg

I decided to put the pearls on the shells like so, and I've started to glue things on! I'm using E6000 glue and holding things in place with clothespins. I think I'm going to layer the ivy and other greenery I have.

Sent from my SM-G930P using MerNetwork mobile app (http://r.tapatalk.com/byo?rid=95032)

[MermaidEcho]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170804/41259b9a959f46dd1fa72c0316face57.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170804/0623037f95c9dde785d5e2be1b6b6165.jpg

Update: so I decided to put big lili pad leaves on the sides, sort of like side fins and I think I really like the idea! I just poured resin on the shells and it REALLY brought out their color. I'm starting to fall in love with this top!

Sent from my SM-G930P using MerNetwork mobile app (http://r.tapatalk.com/byo?rid=95032)

[mermaidrobynn]

It's looking beautiful!

[MermaidEcho]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170805/d5711b35e733e88e9bbeaa07bd1c0d79.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170805/e163a3222e02ebabf8da62453799514b.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170805/d08e29a6fec0b7176926921c2e228043.jpg
Update: things are really starting to come together! I had a very hard time getting the shells off of the paper after the resin dried... But look at that color 😍 natural shells are beautiful!

I've attached the big leaves on the bottom and 3 flowers in the middle. I sewed and glued both.

Sent from my SM-G930P using MerNetwork mobile app (http://r.tapatalk.com/byo?rid=95032)

[MermaidEcho]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170805/30995b2c0be8cf2a87da45f3d96f7fb6.jpg
Does anyone know how to attach shells to a bra?

Sent from my SM-G930P using MerNetwork mobile app (http://r.tapatalk.com/byo?rid=95032)

[Mermaid Whisper]

Glue-wise, I would recommend E-6000. It comes in a silver tube, $5 or so at Michael's for a good size. Just be sure to use adequate ventilation, as the fumes are known to be toxic and damaging.

Otherwise, beautiful work! I want one :P


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[MermaidEcho]

I will be sure to do that, thanks!

Sent from my SM-G930P using MerNetwork mobile app (http://r.tapatalk.com/byo?rid=95032)

[MermaidEcho]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170808/66f819e2c5dbe7c24363590479572033.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170808/7c6e8ba4ae5db8dfeec0441ab070380f.jpg
I finished the drop beading! I made them with lobster claw clasps so I can remove them if I need the top to do a birthday party gig, where they might get pulled on.

Sent from my SM-G930P using MerNetwork mobile app (http://r.tapatalk.com/byo?rid=95032)

[Slim]

The lobster claw clasps is just brilliant.

[MermaidEcho]

Thank you! I couldn't figure out a way to attach them without the risk of the string breaking. So this was a two in one! I can also move them higher or lower if I want too

Sent from my SM-G930P using MerNetwork mobile app (http://r.tapatalk.com/byo?rid=95032)