If you’ve looked at some of the home decor catalogs lately you may have seen the look of coral branches used in all sorts of ways. Since natural coral is endangered it’s best to use fake coral to get the look.
Here’s a cheap way to get that pricey faux coral decor look. Hop on over to your local pet store or discount store that has a pet supplies area. Scout out some fake coral branches made to go in aquariums for the fish to swim around. Pick out what you like for your project, then paint it. Usually white or red paint are the most realistic colors. In the linked project the crafter used Rustoleum Gloss White to get the look she wanted. When the paint is dry, display however you like.
I like coral displayed on a bookcase, on a side table, or atop a small stack of books. They could make interesting finials for a curtain rod. Make a small display podium from a block of wood to make the piece of “coral” get more attention. The block can be painted black, silver, or left plain to contrast with the color of the coral.
Click the title of this post for some examples to inspire you at HomeStories. The page is image-heavy, so it takes a while to load. It’s worth the wait.
Maggie says
Just wanted to add that spray painting these silver looks kind of cool too.
Maggie says
MC, I don’t know why these are on the carpet either! I just wanted to find a pic of some to give the idea. The photos at the link are much better. Yes, on the coffee table would be a better look! lol
MoneyCone says
In the picture, this would look great on top of the coffee table rather than on the carpet!
Nice tip on using a feather duster! I love Swiffer!
Maggie says
Marie, I avoid dusting things like this by putting them in a cabinet with glass doors. Or else I use a feather duster that makes quick work of it all.
Maggie says
Hi, Marie! It’s been in the decorating catalogs for about a year I guess. They always come up with something to generate interest. Since I already collect sea shells it’s not new to me. Not sure if I’ll make the fake coral since I have plenty of sea shells already. I do know we are not supposed to buy real coral because it’s destroying the coral reefs. Divers break off pieces of coral to sell to gift shops. That was going on long before the decorating trend. If no one buys the coral the divers will stop destroying the reefs. That’s a trend I support!
Marie at FamilyMoneyValues says
Hmmm, I hadn’t heard about this decorating trend. I hate to think about dusting these things!