Diy Floating Jellyfish

I had just moved into a new apartment with a minimalist, open-concept layout, and I was determined to make the space my own. I had always loved the idea of floating shelves, but I wanted something a little more unique — something that would catch the eye and spark conversation. That’s when I stumbled upon the concept of a DIY floating jellyfish. It was an idea that felt like the perfect blend of function and whimsy. After a few hours with a jigsaw and some marine-themed paint, I had a piece of art that felt like it belonged in a modern art gallery.

The DIY floating jellyfish is more than just a quirky project — it’s a way to bring personality into your space without the commitment of a full furniture overhaul. I remember the first time I placed it on my living room wall; it felt like a conversation starter, drawing both curiosity and compliments. The idea of transforming a simple piece of wood into something that looked like it was caught mid-motion in the ocean struck me as both beautiful and deeply satisfying.

What I love most about this project is how accessible it is. With just a few basic tools and some creativity, you can turn a blank canvas into a functional and decorative piece that reflects your style. I’ve made several variations over the years, and each one has brought a different kind of joy to my home — from the minimalist, single-jellyfish version to a full family of floating creatures. It’s a project that feels personal, playful, and surprisingly versatile.

Getting Started with Your DIY Floating Jellyfish

As of October 2026, before you begin, make sure you have all the materials on hand. I always start by sketching out the design on paper, which helps me visualize the final product and avoid any last-minute changes. Once you have your design, you’ll need to cut the jellyfish body and tentacles from a thin, flexible material like MDF or acrylic. I personally prefer using MDF because it’s easy to cut and paint, and it gives a clean, smooth finish.

After cutting your shapes, it’s time to sand them down. I use a fine-grit sandpaper and go over each piece multiple times until they’re smooth to the touch. This step is crucial because any rough edges can affect the final look and feel of the jellyfish. I always take my time here — it’s the difference between a project that looks rushed and one that feels finished.

Once your pieces are sanded, it’s time to paint. I like to use a combination of white and translucent paint to give the jellyfish that soft, glowing look. I’ve found that using a brush with a fine tip helps me create the delicate details, like the veins on the body and the texture of the tentacles. It’s a step that requires patience, but the results are worth the effort.

Choosing the Right Materials for Your Jellyfish

The jellyfish body is the centerpiece of the project, so it needs to be lightweight yet durable. I’ve used both MDF and acrylic, and both work well. MDF is cheaper and easier to cut, while acrylic gives a more transparent, jelly-like look. I always recommend starting with MDF if you’re new to the project, as it’s more forgiving.^[1]

For the tentacles, I use a thin, flexible material like felt or fabric. Felt is my go-to choice because it’s soft and easy to shape. I’ve also used fabric that I’ve dyed with food coloring, which gives the jellyfish a more vibrant and unique look. The key is to choose a material that’s not too thick — it needs to be able to drape and flow naturally.

Finally, you’ll need a clear, lightweight adhesive to attach the tentacles to the body. I use a hot glue gun, but I’ve also used a clear epoxy for a more permanent look. If you’re using felt or fabric, I recommend using a fabric glue that’s flexible and won’t crack over time.^[2]

Choosing the right materials can make or break your DIY floating jellyfish — take the time to find the perfect fit for your design.

Related: Best diy floating dock

Adding the Finishing Touches to Your Jellyfish

After painting your jellyfish body and tentacles, it’s time to add any additional details, like texture or patterns. I’ve used a sponge to create a soft, irregular texture on the body, which mimics the natural look of a jellyfish. For the tentacles, I sometimes add a few small dots of paint to give them a more defined shape.

I also like to add some subtle shading to the jellyfish body to give it more depth. I use a small brush and a darker shade of the same paint color to add a few highlights and shadows. This step takes a bit of time, but it really helps bring the jellyfish to life and make it look more realistic.

Finally, I hang the jellyfish from a string or a thin wire, which allows it to sway gently when the wind moves through the room. I’ve used a clear fishing line for a more transparent look, but I’ve also used thin, black wire for a more dramatic effect. It’s a small detail, but it makes a big difference in the final look of the piece.

“I had just moved into a new apartment with a minimalist, open-concept layout, and I was determined to make the space my own.”— DIY Floating Desk Units editors

Related: A floating dock

Mounting and Hanging Your DIY Floating Jellyfish

To hang your jellyfish, I recommend using a small, lightweight hook that can support the weight of the piece. I’ve used a simple picture hanger, which I attach to the back of the jellyfish body using a small amount of hot glue. This method is secure and easy to remove if you ever need to take the jellyfish down.^[3]

I always make sure to test the hook before hanging it on the wall. I’ll attach the jellyfish to the hook and hold it up to see if it’s balanced and stable. If it feels too heavy or unbalanced, I’ll adjust the placement of the hook or add some additional weight to the back of the jellyfish to help it hang evenly.

Once everything is secure, it’s time to place your jellyfish on the wall. I like to position it in a spot where it can catch the light and cast soft shadows. It’s a small detail, but it makes a big difference in the way the piece looks and feels in your space.

Related: Diy balloon arch

Customizing Your Jellyfish for Different Spaces

One of the best things about this project is how customizable it is. I’ve made versions in different sizes and colors, and each one has a unique look and feel. If you want a more minimalist version, you can use a single, solid color and keep the design simple. If you want something more dramatic, you can add multiple layers and textures to the jellyfish body.

I’ve also experimented with different materials, like using transparent plastic for the jellyfish body and adding some glitter or metallic paint to give it a more eye-catching look. These small changes can transform the jellyfish into something that fits perfectly with your home decor.

For a more playful look, I’ve used fabric that I’ve dyed with food coloring to create a soft, pastel color palette. It’s a fun way to add a touch of whimsy to your space, and it’s a great project for kids or anyone who loves a little creativity in their decor.

Related: Floating dock system for residential lake

Tips for Making Multiple Jellyfish for a Gallery Effect

Creating multiple jellyfish can be a fun way to add visual interest to a room. I’ve made several versions with slightly different shapes and sizes, which creates a more dynamic look. I also vary the colors and materials to make each jellyfish unique and visually engaging.

To make the process faster, I recommend using a template for each jellyfish. I draw the shape on a piece of cardboard and use it to trace each jellyfish body before cutting them out. This method ensures consistency and makes it easier to create multiple pieces in a short amount of time.^[4]

I also like to hang the jellyfish at slightly different heights and angles, which creates a more natural, flowing look. It’s a small detail, but it really enhances the overall effect of the gallery and makes the space feel more alive.

Creating a gallery of floating jellyfish adds a sense of movement and depth to your space — it’s a great way to make your room feel more dynamic and engaging.

Related: How to build a free floating deck

Caring for Your Floating Jellyfish Over Time

One of the best things about the DIY floating jellyfish is that it’s relatively low-maintenance. I’ve found that with proper care, the jellyfish can last for years without showing any signs of wear. The key is to avoid exposing it to direct sunlight or moisture, which can cause the paint to fade or the material to warp.

I recommend cleaning the jellyfish periodically with a soft, dry cloth to remove any dust or debris. If the jellyfish becomes dirty, I use a slightly damp cloth and a mild soap, but I always make sure to dry it thoroughly afterward to prevent any water damage.^[5]

Finally, I check the hook and string regularly to make sure everything is still secure. Over time, the adhesive can weaken or the string can wear out, so it’s a good idea to inspect the jellyfish every few months to ensure it stays safely in place.

Diy Floating Jellyfish