Mill Creek to host community market in east Bradenton

Walking on Pass-a-Grille Beach in May 2020, Mill Creek’s Heather Caudill noticed the beautiful shells in the sand during low tide, so she started collecting them. 

Before she knew it, Caudill had to buy a five-gallon bucket with a lid to safely transport the hundreds of shells she collected as she drove back to her home in Maryland.

Two months later, Caudill and her husband, Chris Caudill, moved to Mill Creek, and her shell collection has grown since then. 

But what could she do with all these shells?

Caudill, a crafter at heart, decided to put her artsy skills to work. She learned how to use resin and began making wall art. Now she makes a variety of pieces from charcuterie boards to elephants to ornaments, and more.

Caudill will have her pieces for sale during the Mill Creek Market Fair Nov. 23. The fair is an opportunity for Mill Creek residents who are crafters, artists and home business consultants to share their talents with the community.

In the foyer of her Mill Creek home, Caudill has a display of her shells. On the wall are printer trays filled with some of her best finds and cases showcasing some rare shells, including the Junonia shell. Junonia shells that are not broken can sell for $30 to $40 if they are three inches or smaller. Larger shells could sell for $80 to $100. 

Although Caudill only has been able to find one Junonia shell, her husband Chris Caudill has found nine. It’s become a challenge to see who can find the rare shell. 

Photo by Liz Ramos

Next to her display are jars of various sizes filled to the brim with shells waiting to be used in her crafts. 

Caudill goes as far south as Marco Island and as far north as Tarpon Springs hunting for shells and participating in shelling tours. She also travels to beaches on the east coast. 

“It’s amazing that you’re just wandering the beach, you’re looking down and all of a sudden you come across something beautiful,” she said. “It’s incredible that an animal might have lived in it.”

Over the years, she’s become more picky when hunting for shells. 

But not every shell must be in perfect condition for her to use it. Some of her favorite pieces have been broken shells that she does decoupage, using napkins and clear resin. She’s used this method to imprint sunflowers, turtles and more onto the broken shells to be used as decorative pieces or trinket dishes. 

Caudill makes resin hearts that she calls "pocket hugs." The center of the heart has a little trinket, whether it's a seahorse charm, tiny candy cane, flower or something else. She donates $4 of each pocket hug she sells to the Moffitt Cancer Center.