How to Make a Seashell Necklace Like You See on Vacation

A homemade seashell necklace can look as good as ones you see in the shops.

Have you ever been on a beach vacation and noticed the seashell necklaces that are sold in many of the gift shops? Would you like to be able to make one like it yourself? If so, then you will be happy to know that a seashell necklace can be made quite simply by using some seashells lying around in the sand on the beach. You can add other things if you wish as well, such as beads, sharks teeth and anything else that you desire to make it look just the way you want it to.

Things You'll Need

• Seashells
• Beads (If desired)
• Beading cord
• Electric drill
• Tiny drill bit
• Jewelry clasp

Instructions

1. Go far a walk on a beach and collect the prettiest seashells that you can find. Ideally, you will have a beach close to where you live. If you are not near a beach, then you can get some shells at most hobby and craft shops. You can find beads at hobby and craft shops as well, so if you plan on using beads then pick out some pretty ones that you think will coordinate well with the shells that you plan on using.

2. Wash off shells thoroughly with a gentle soap and some cool water, removing any sand or dirt while being careful not to break any of them.

3. Arrange the shells in a desirable pattern, by colors, shapes and sizes, putting beads in between them.

4. Take an electric drill and, using a tiny drill bit, drill a hole through the top of each of the shells. This is where the beading cord will go through.

5. Take some beading cord and measure it so that it is about 30 inches in length and cut it with a pair of scissors. Secure a jewelry clasp to one end of the cord.

6. String the shells (and the beads if desired) onto the beading cord through the drilled holes. Put them in the pattern that you arranged previously. Continue until all of the cord is strung.

7. Take the other end of the beading cord and attach the other part of the jewelry clasp to it to complete the necklace.

Tips & Warnings

• If you prefer, you can just tie the ends of the beading cord together instead of using a jewelry clasp so long as it is large enough to slip easily over your head.

• You may substitute regular beading cord for hemp cord if you desire, as it is a sturdy material.

• When cleaning the beads, do not use a harsh soap or leave them in water for very long or they may become brittle and chip or break.

Resources

• Crafting a Green World: Five Natural Crafts to Make With Seashells