Cindy's first creation of a Sailors' Valentine.

A month-long course was taught by a New Bedford, MA pastor. He purchased one for his mother a few years ago and decided to learn how to make them himself. Seems most artists guard their expertise so he learned by trial and error. Nice of him to pass along his secrets to our little class of 6. Now, Cindy awaits the UPS delivery of tiny shells from Sanibel, FL to continue making more. By the way, the instructor also learned how to make the 8-sided frames and this is one of his.

Mythically, valentines were crafted by sailors on long ocean voyages and presented to loved ones on their return. Questions arise over where they got shells, how steady would the ship have to be for such fine work, and did the whaling crew really have a whole lot of spare time. More likely, they were made in Barbados on commission.

Link: Sailors' Valentine Gallery on Nantucket