By Susan Rosen aka Sea Star Dreams

There is one way to extend the Indian Summer, for us northerners, and that is to travel South to the Outer   N.C. If you get a chance to visit the Outer banks you’ll enjoy temperatures that can be up to 10 to 15 degrees warmer then the New York City and the Philadelphia area. If you are coming from further north you’ll fnd that the warm temperatures makes will really extend your walks on the beach far longer then Labor day!

So, with tall sea grass and high dunes, a walk on the beach can be breathtaking in the Carolinas and if you are a beachcomber, hunting for shells this time of year can bring in some beauties, either for your collection, your decor or especially for creating. You’ll find worn shell pieces, perfect for jewelry or large intact shells for adding to your collection or your garden in the spring.

A trip to Ocracoke N.C. can bring you extra surprises, such as Scotch Bonnets and if you are extra lucky, a Sand Dollar! It’s a shame that some of the 4 wheel drive trucks have smashed some of the lovelies, but the fisher person’s need to have their fun too. Besides, the broken pieces (shards) can be utilized for earrings, rings and for mosaic creations as well.

If you are like these artisans from Etsy (as well as my shop, Sea Star Dreams) you will find that the beauties from the beach can be the best supplies in that large craft stash of yours, if you’re already traveling…all they cost is a walk on the beach!

Pair the shell finds up with sterling silver, pearls, antique chains, and more to create the beauties that help you enjoy the beach far into the winter. Why not wear a lovely sterling and white shell necklace in the winter with your winter white sweater, or the dressy abalone earrings paired up with your holiday dress. Bring the beach feel into winter, spring, fall as well as summer and pair up these stunning creations from these various handmade shops:

Once your beach combing is complete in serene North Carolina, you may want to say goodbye to the harsh winters and, then travel to areas in Florida, Mexico and other glorious warm weather climates and be sure to do some beach coming while everyone else is sitting by the pool! You’ll be amazed at the finds that you can pick up in the warm weather beaches! Perhaps some sea pottery or sponge fossils. Have fun working with your new “hand picked” supplies!

Allow me to suggest a spot that will have you going back for more and more anytime of the year. A tranquil area that is ladled with brightly painted Victorian Gingerbread houses as well as numerous as well as excellent eclectic restaurants & shops. It’s Cape May NJ! If you are ever lucky enough to visit, there are so many places that are recommended for sightseeing and shopping. A must see for those looking for natural supplies for their craft business is the Cape May Point which is approx 7-10 minutes drive from downtown Cape May.

Cape May Point is the only place in the world where you can find Cape May Diamonds, quartz stones that travel down the Delaware river to the Delaware Bay and they end their journey at one place in the world. It’s a place where not only can you spend time sifting through the many various size and shapes of the diamonds, but you can catch some sun and view the historic “Concrete ship”. As you are enjoying the beach and sifting for stones, imagine the Kechemeche Indians doing the same many moons ago, right at the lovely Cape May Point! These stones, once tumbled and cut can resemble diamonds, hence their name.

As you enjoy traveling and beach coming, the creations from your finds are endless. Enjoy!

Image courtesy of TheSaltySeaHouse

Tags: beach, beach combing, beach pottery, beachcombing, cape may, diamonds, dunes, florida, gingerbread, houses, indians, Jewelry, kechemeche, mexico, n.c. north carolina, outer banks, quartz, sea grass, shells, sterling silver, supplies, victorian

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