Quick and Easy Seashell Jewelry

Before we get started, I just want to say that I love a quick and easy seashell craft as much as I love the ocean! There’s just something about the sound of waves crashing, sea birds crying and the feel of sand between your toes to make you forget about the rest of the world. One of my favorite things to do at the beach is to go “treasure hunting”. That’s code for SEASHELLS!

I don’t know what it is, but it seems that no matter how many times I say I’m only going to search for a couple of minutes, I’m still searching for treasure an hour later.

Please tell me you understand!

The cool thing about hunting for seashells is that you never know what you’re going to find. Sometimes, it’s hard to decide what to keep and what to leave for other treasure hunters. As a result, I’ve now got an over-flowing basket of seashells that just scream to be used in a project.

Make Some Earrings

You will need:

Basic jewelry-making tools. – This set of tools is sufficient for those just starting out. However, you can always add to your tool box later as you build your skills.

A power drill or Pin Vise Hand Drill for making holes in shells.

Jewelry findings – beads, earring wires, jump rings, etc.

Seashells

The Process:

First, start by drilling holes in the seashells you intend to use. If you’re not sure about how to drill holes, read this post first.

Second, choose the jewelry findings that you want to use. “Findings” is a word to describe the components used in making jewelry.  Here, I kept the findings simple with a jump ring and earring wire.

Next, using both round and flat nose pliers, twist the jump ring open and add it to the seashell. It’s important to “twist” the jump ring apart. If you “pull” it apart, it won’t close completely and you may lose part of your earring.

Next, add the earring wire. Twist the jump ring back together to close it.

Viola’…instant earrings!

Additionally, you could bling it up by adding some beads.

The possibilities are endless so have fun with it!

This post contains affiliate links. That means when you click through and make a purchase using the links provided, I earn a small commission at no cost to you. As an Amazon Affiliate, I will never recommend a product I don’t use or trust myself.

Make a necklace

You will need:

Basic jewelry-making tools. This set has everything you need to get started.

26 Gauge Jewelry Wire, Gold: cut 3 pieces at least 18 inches long

Lobster claw clasp or Toggle clasp

18″ Chain, Ribbon or Cord (to hold the pendant)

A large seashell

Jewelry Glue

The Process

First, start by using the 3 strands of jewelry wire. Make a knot at one end by twisting the wires together. Braid the three wires together…left over middle, right over middle, repeat. Easy!

Next, fold the braided wire in half to find the middle. Place the fold/loop behind the shell and sticking a little above the top of the shell. Fold the two ends to the front of the shell and through the loop.

Next, fold both braided ends down and through the fold/loop again. This will be the pendant loop that the chain will go through.

It helps to place a pencil in the pendant loop to pull it tight.

Going in opposite directions, wrap the two braided ends around the bottom of the pendant loop to secure it.  Cut the excess wire. Use your flat nose pliers to tuck in those sharp edges.

It’s not absolutely necessary, but I put a dab of jewelry glue on the back side of the shell, on each braid to keep them from slipping.

That’s it…add a chain (ribbon or cord) and clasp closure and you’re done. Pretty easy peasy!

Now, if you want to bling it up and create a match for the earrings you made earlier, add a few matching beads and you have an original creation…made by your own hands!

Congratulations! Now go show it off…and yes, it’s okay to swagger while you do it!

Have fun with it!

As with the earrings, there are so many possibilities it boggles the mind! Let your creative juices flow…this is your creation and it can be whatever you envision. So have fun with it!

Have you tried making jewelry with sea shells? I’d love to hear about it. Just leave a comment below and tell me what inspired you. Maybe we can inspire each other!

Until next time,

lisa