How to Preserve a Starfish for Decorative Purposes

Starfish can serve as charming decorations once you bring them back from the beach. To ensure they don't emit any unpleasant odors, it's crucial to properly preserve them by drying them with alcohol and mastering the art of their display. It's a simple process. Refer to Step 1 for detailed instructions.

Confirm that the starfish you discover are already deceased. While there are nearly 1500 species of starfish worldwide, they all share one trait: they move slowly. Identifying whether a starfish is alive or dead can be challenging, but there are indicators to ensure you're preserving rather than harming it:

• If you encounter a starfish on the shore, refrain from touching it immediately. Observe it closely. Is there any movement? Is there any disturbance in the sand beneath it? If yes, return it to the water to ensure its well-being. Observe it for a few minutes to detect any signs of life before handling it.
• If the starfish is fragile and motionless, it's deceased and suitable for preservation and ornamentation.

Clean your starfish. Before preserving your starfish, consider cleaning it for display. While not mandatory, some collectors prefer to immerse the starfish in mildly soapy water and thoroughly dry it before proceeding with alcohol soaking or salt drying.

• To conduct a pre-soak, dilute a small amount of liquid detergent in several cups of water and soak the starfish to remove impurities. Avoid excessive scrubbing or handling, as starfish are delicate creatures.
• Ensure the starfish is completely dry in the sunlight, flattening each arm gently between two plates to maintain a uniform shape.

Preserve your starfish with alcohol.

Most collectors opt for an alcohol soak to preserve their starfish. Upon bringing the starfish home, immerse it in isopropyl rubbing alcohol for 30-48 hours.

• Alternatively, some individuals choose to soak the starfish in formalin, a solution of formaldehyde and water. Note that this method may result in a lingering chemical odor, particularly if the starfish will be displayed without glass covering.

Dry the starfish in the sun. Regardless of the preparatory steps or soaking solution used, allow the starfish to air dry thoroughly in sunlight before bringing it indoors. Dry, sunny days are ideal for this process.

• Place weighted plates on top of the starfish to ensure its arms remain flat and even during drying. Regularly monitor the drying progress to achieve the desired shape for display purposes.

Consider preserving starfish with salt. An alternative preservation method involves laying the starfish flat on a plate and covering it generously with natural sea salt. Use another plate to keep the starfish's arms straight.

• The salt absorbs moisture from the starfish, effectively preserving it. Conduct this process outdoors under the sun for faster drying and to minimize any potential odor.

Ensure dryness. Whether displaying prominently or using for crafts, ensure your starfish remains dry to minimize any lingering odor from the preservation process. Store it in a dry location and handle it gently to prevent disruption.

Create a shadowbox with oceanic elements. A popular method for showcasing starfish is within a decorative shadowbox alongside shells, urchins, and driftwood. This adds a charming touch to any space, particularly in coastal homes.

Use it as gift wrapping embellishment. Substitute traditional bows with preserved starfish for a unique gift-wrapping accent. Attach it to gift bags or packages with ribbon, especially when presenting ocean-themed gifts.

Adorn your dining table. Incorporate preserved starfish into an ocean-themed centerpiece for your dining table. Arrange them with shells in a bowl for a seasonal decoration that evokes beachside charm throughout the year.

• Enhance place settings by gluing starfish to napkin rings.
• Add flair to wine glasses by tying starfish to the stems with ribbon, ensuring removal before washing.

Display in a glass jar. Showcase your starfish and other marine treasures by placing them in a glass jar. This elegant display option suits various settings, indoors or outdoors, offering an instant reminder of sunny beach days.

Make a starfish pin. Keep your starfish close by crafting it into a stylish brooch or pin to wear on your beach bag, purse, scarf, or jacket.