How to Make a Shell Necklace Without a Hole | 5 Easy DIY Seashell Jewelry Ideas

Whenever I walk along the shore, I can’t help but pocket a few types of seashells that catch my eye. Maybe you do the same, you spot a shiny money cowrie or a smooth scallop and instantly imagine it as a necklace. But then comes the big question: how to make a shell necklace without a hole?

I’ve been doing shells collecting at many beaches across Florida. Mostly when I find shells, they are too delicate to drill, others are just too pretty to risk cracking, and honestly, not everyone has the right tools lying around. I still remember the first time I tried to drill into a fragile sand dollar dove; it crumbled in seconds, and I promised myself I’d find easier ways.

The good news is, you don’t actually need to drill holes at all. Over time, I’ve discovered several creative DIY solutions that allow you to transform your favorite shells into wearable keepsakes, safely and beautifully.

In this guide, I’ll share five real methods that I’ve tried and tested (or seen other beach lovers use successfully). These ideas are beginner-friendly, Pinterest-worthy, and will help you transform your treasure into meaningful seashells jewelry you’ll be proud to wear or gift.

Five Real DIY Methods for How to Make a Shell Necklace Without a Hole

Not every seashell works with the same technique, and over time, I’ve learned that the shape and size really decide which method works best. Some shells are flat and perfect for gluing, while others are round or fragile and need a gentler approach.

To help you out, I’ve put together five real DIY methods that I’ve used (or seen fellow beach lovers try successfully). Each one gives you a different way to make things with seashells like necklaces—without drilling a single hole.

1. Jewelry Bails + Strong Jewelry Glue (E6000 / Gorilla Glue Clear)

This is one of my favorite quick fixes for making a shell necklace without a hole. Jewelry bails are tiny metal findings with a flat pad on one side and a loop on the other.

All you need to do is glue the flat pad onto the back of your seashell. Once it’s fully dry, you can slide the loop onto a chain, leather cord, or even ribbon. It’s simple, secure, and gives your necklace a professional finish.

Best for: Flat shells, cowrie shells, small lightweight shells.

Do it Yourself (DIY): Step-by-Step to Make a Shell Necklace Without a Hole

Materials you’ll need:

• Clean your Seashells and dry
• Flat pad jewelry bails (silver, gold, or antique bronze depending on your style)
• Strong clear jewelry glue (E6000 or Gorilla Glue Clear Grip work best)
• Tweezers or small pliers
• Chain, cord, or ribbon for the necklace

Instructions About How To Make a Shell Necklace Without a Hole

1. Wash and dry your shell thoroughly so the glue sticks well.
2. Apply a small dot of glue onto the flat pad of the jewelry bail.
3. Carefully press the pad onto the back of your shell. (Tip: Use tweezers if the bail is tiny.)
4. Hold it in place for a minute or two, then lay the shell flat on a clean surface.
5. Let it dry completely, 24 hours is best for maximum strength.
6. Once dry, slide the bail loop onto your chain or cord and wear your new necklace!

Tips to keep shells safe and secure:

• Always use clear glue so it doesn’t show around the edges.
• Avoid gluing near thin or fragile parts of the shell—aim for the thickest spot.
• If your shell has a shiny surface, lightly sand the back with fine-grit sandpaper so the glue grips better.

Pros:

• Secure and long-lasting
• Looks polished and professional
• Beginner-friendly (no tools besides glue)

Cons:

• Requires 24 hours of drying time before wearing

2. Wire Wrapping (No Glue Needed)

If you’ve ever admired boho-style jewelry on Pinterest, chances are you’ve seen wire-wrapped shells and stones.

This method uses jewelry wire to create a secure “cage” around the shell, with a loop at the top for stringing onto a necklace. It’s a glue-free way to make a seashell necklace and works especially well for shells that are round, chunky, or shaped too awkwardly for bails.

Best for: Odd-shaped shells, larger shells, statement pendants.

DIY: Step-by-Step Guide How To Do Wire Wrapping Around A seashell

Materials you’ll need:

• Seashells (clean and dry)
• Jewelry wire (20–24 gauge; silver, gold, or copper depending on your style)
• Round-nose pliers
• Wire cutters
• Chain, cord, or leather necklace base

Instructions:

1. Cut about 12–18 inches of jewelry wire (more for larger shells).
2. Place the shell in the center of the wire and start wrapping it around the shell in a crisscross pattern. The goal is to “cage” the shell so it can’t slip out.
3. Twist the ends of the wire together at the top of the shell to secure it.
4. Using round-nose pliers, create a small loop with the twisted wire—this is where your chain or cord will go.
5. Tuck in any sharp wire ends with pliers so they don’t snag clothing or skin.
6. Slip your wrapped shell onto a chain, cord, or leather strand and enjoy your unique handmade necklace.

Tips to keep shells safe and secure

• Start with a practice shell if you’re new to wire wrapping; it takes a little practice.
• Use softer jewelry wire (copper is great for beginners) so it bends easily.
• Keep your wraps tight but not so tight that they crack the shell.

Pros:

• No glue required
• Adjustable and customizable
• Adds a unique boho or handmade look

Cons:

• Requires a bit of practice to get neat, even wraps

3. Use Shell Mounts or Bezel Settings

This method gives your seashells a polished, store-bought jewelry look. Bezel settings or shell mounts are small metal frames designed to hold flat objects like shells or stones. You simply glue your shell into the setting, and it instantly becomes a pendant you can wear on a chain.

It’s one of the easiest ways to make a shell necklace without a hole, and it works especially well for thin or flat shells.

Best for: Thin, flat shells (scallops, clam shells, polished fragments).

DIY Step-by-Step Instructions

Materials you’ll need:

• Seashells (thin, flat, and dry)
• Bezel settings or shell mounts (findings in silver, gold, or bronze)
• Strong clear jewelry glue (E6000 or Gorilla Glue Clear Grip)
• Tweezers or pliers
• Necklace chain or cord

Instructions:

1. Clean and dry your seashell thoroughly.
2. Apply a small amount of glue to the inside of the bezel setting.
3. Place your shell carefully into the mount and press gently.
4. Allow it to dry flat for at least 24 hours so the shell stays secure.
5. Once the glue has set, thread the pendant onto your chain or cord and wear it.

Tips to keep shells safe and secure:

• Choose bezel settings slightly larger than your shell for the best fit.
• If your shell is slippery, lightly sand the back before gluing.
• Be sure to center the shell before the glue sets for a neat finish.

Pros:

• Looks professional and polished
• Very secure hold
• Great for flat, lightweight shells

Cons:

• Limited by shell shape (doesn’t work for thick or chunky shells)

4. Macrame / Cord Wrapping Around A shell (Pinterest-Favorite Trendy Style)

If you love the beachy-boho vibe, macrame cord wrapping is a perfect way to make a shell necklace without a hole.

Instead of glue or metal, this method uses knotted cord to create a secure “net” around the shell, holding it in place while also becoming part of the necklace design. It’s trendy, beginner-friendly, and a favorite among Pinterest DIY fans.

Best for: Larger or oddly shaped shells, boho-style statement designs.

How to Do Macrame or Cord Wrapping ?

Materials you’ll need:

• Seashells (medium to large size works best)
• Strong cord or waxed thread (cotton, hemp, or nylon)
• Scissors
• Necklace clasp or adjustable knot for finishing

Instructions:

1. Cut several strands of cord, each about 18–24 inches long.
2. Tie them together at one end with a knot, leaving a small loop for attaching your necklace later.
3. Spread the cords apart and start tying square knots or simple overhand knots, forming a net-like pattern.
4. Place the shell in the middle of the cords, then continue knotting around it until it feels snug and secure.
5. Bring the cords together above the shell and tie them into a loop or attach a clasp.
6. Trim off any excess cord, and your shell necklace is ready to wear.

Tips to keep shells safe and secure:

• Choose waxed cord for better grip, it won’t slip as easily as smooth thread.
• Practice the knots on spare cord before wrapping your real shell.
• Go slowly and tighten knots evenly for a neat, balanced look.

Pros:

• Stylish and on-trend
• No glue or tools required
• Flexible design options

Cons:

• Can be time-consuming
• Requires patience to learn the knots

5. Resin Embedding of a shell

Resin embedding is like giving your seashell a protective glass case. The shell is placed into a resin mold or partly coated with resin, and an eye pin or jewelry bail is added before it hardens. Once cured, the resin creates a clear, glossy finish that locks the shell in place, turning it into a durable pendant.

Best for: Tiny, fragile shells, sand dollars, or delicate beach finds.

How to do the resin embedding process for sea shells?

Materials you’ll need:

• Small seashells (clean and dry)
• Epoxy resin kit (resin + hardener)
• Mixing cups and stir sticks
• Pendant mold or flat surface for coating
• Eye pin or jewelry bail
• Gloves and protective surface covering

Instructions:

1. Prepare your resin according to the package instructions (usually mixing equal parts resin and hardener).
2. Pour a small layer of resin into your pendant mold.
3. Place the seashell carefully into the resin, making sure it’s centered.
4. Add an eye pin or position a bail at the top for your chain.
5. Pour another thin layer of resin over the shell until it’s covered.
6. Let it cure completely (usually 24–48 hours depending on the brand).
7. Once hardened, remove the pendant from the mold and attach it to a chain or cord.

Tips to Safely carried out the complete process of resin embedding process for sea shells?

• Always wear gloves and work in a well-ventilated space when using resin.
• Use a toothpick to pop any air bubbles that form around the shell.
• If you want a more natural look, only coat the back of the shell in resin instead of fully embedding it.

Pros:

• Protects delicate shells from breaking
• Creates a glossy, polished finish
• Long-lasting and durable

Cons:

• Requires resin supplies and curing time
• Slightly more advanced than glue or wire methods

Why This Works Better Than Drilling a Hole in a Shell?

I’ll be honest, I’ve tried drilling holes in seashells before, and more often than not, the results weren’t pretty.

Delicate shells like sand dollars or thin scallops tend to crack almost instantly, and even rare shells can chip or lose their shine if the drill slips. On top of that, drilling is messy, noisy, and requires tools that most of us don’t keep at home.

That’s why I love these no-drill methods so much. They’re simple, safe, and give you beautiful results without the stress. You don’t need a power tool or special skills, just a bit of creativity and the right materials.

For Pinterest crafters especially, these methods are a win: they’re beginner-friendly, affordable, and you can finish most of them in an afternoon.

Sea Shell Necklace Ideas Without Drilling

One of the best parts about making a shell necklace without a hole is the freedom to get creative. You’re not limited to just one style; different shells and methods can give you completely different looks.

Here are some seashell necklace ideas to spark your inspiration:

• Cowrie Shell Necklace Without a Hole: Cowries are naturally glossy and iconic in beach jewelry. Using bails, cord wrapping, or even resin makes it easy to wear them without risking cracks.

• Mixed Seashell Jewelry Ideas: Combine different shells, tiny scallops, cowries, and conches for a layered or charm-style necklace. It gives you that collected-on-vacation look.

• Beachy Statement Designs: Larger shells can be wire-wrapped or macrame-wrapped into a bold pendant that stands out as a centerpiece.

• Resin and Sand Keepsake Pendant: Place a small shell and a pinch of sand from your favorite beach into a resin mold to create a wearable memory.

• Minimalist Flat Shell Necklace: A simple flat shell with a glued bail on a fine chain creates a delicate, everyday piece.

• Boho Layered Necklace: Try combining macrame cord-wrapped shells with wooden beads or charms for a laid-back, Pinterest-worthy vibe.

• Beach Vacation Souvenir Necklace: Turn shells from a specific trip into keepsakes, each one representing a special place you’ve visited.

These variations not only make your seashell jewelry more personal but also let you match your creations to your own style, whether it’s minimal, boho, or statement-making.

FAQs About Making Seashell Jewelry

Conclusion

Every seashell tells a little story, maybe it’s from your favorite beach walk, a family vacation, or just a quiet moment by the ocean. The best part about making a shell necklace without a hole is that you don’t need fancy tools or stressful drilling to carry that memory with you.

With these five DIY methods, whether it’s the quick glue-and-bail trick, a boho wire wrap, or even resin embedding, you can safely turn your shells into jewelry that’s both meaningful and beautiful.

Personally, I love seeing how different shells inspire different designs. A glossy cowrie might become a minimalist pendant, while a chunky conch shell transforms into a bold, statement piece. No two necklaces are ever the same, and that’s what makes seashell jewelry so special.

If you’ve been holding onto a little pile of shells waiting for the “right project,” this is your sign to try one of these methods.

Save this guide for later, share it with fellow beachcombers on Pinterest, and most importantly, have fun creating your own one-of-a-kind necklace that carries a piece of the sea wherever you go.