DECORATING WITH NATURAL OBJECTS. 179 



plaster. If bits of plaster should be visible, small shells 

 can be attached, or powdered rock thrown on here and 

 there. The Nautilus, if properly adjusted, will hold 

 water, and in summer can be used for cut flowers. In 

 winter it presents an attractive sight, filled with ferns, 

 grasses, and dried flowers, and having vines of the climb- 

 ing fern trailing from bowl to base. Some employ the 

 polished and carved Nautilus ; although the pearly lustre 

 is brought out in these, I prefer the natural shell with 

 its beautiful markings. 



Other large shells can be used in this way, as origi- 

 nality may devise, or taste suggest. Three Scallop shells 

 make a pretty outlined and secure base for a small vase ; 



SHELL BRACKET. 



their beautiful colors may be brought out by dipping 

 them for a few minutes in muriatic acid, two-thirds 

 diluted with hot water. 



Shell-brackets can be made in various effective styles. 

 They should have wooden backs slightly smaller than the 

 outlines of the back of shell. Drive a few nails into the 

 latter with projecting heads. Cover the back with thick 

 plaster, into which, quickly set shells, as desired. 



Beautiful Easter crosses can be formed of shells. The 



