The simplest method: drill and string

The fastest way to make a guitar pick necklace is to drill a small hole near the top of a pick and thread cord or chain through it. You need a pick, a drill with a bit smaller than 1/16 inch (so the cord doesn't slip through), a length of cord or chain, and optionally a clasp or knot to close it. The whole process takes about five minutes once you have the materials.

Start by marking where you want the hole — near the top edge of the pick, roughly centered. A pencil mark or piece of tape helps you aim. Clamp the pick firmly to a work surface or hold it steady in a vise so it doesn't spin when the drill bit catches. Drill slowly and let the bit do the work; pushing hard can crack the pick. Once the hole is through, thread your cord or chain through and tie or clasp the ends together.

Key Takeaways

  • A drilled pick with cord or chain is the most direct method and requires only a drill, a small bit, and cord.
  • Clamping or holding the pick steady prevents it from spinning and cracking when you drill.
  • Leather cord, beaded chain, and ball chains all work; choose based on the look you want and how the cord sits on your neck.
  • If you don't have a drill, a jeweler can drill the hole for a few dollars, or you can use a wire wrap or bail to avoid drilling altogether.
  • Thicker picks (0.73 mm and up) are less likely to crack than thin ones when drilled.

Choosing cord and chain materials

The cord or chain you use changes how the necklace looks and feels. Leather cord in black, brown, or natural tan is popular because it's durable and has a casual, musical look. Beaded chains let you add color and personality — you can buy them pre-made or string beads yourself on thin wire. Ball chain (the kind on dog tags) is sturdy and sits flat against your chest, though it can feel cold.

Measure the length you want before you buy. Most people wear pick necklaces 18 to 24 inches long, depending on whether you want it to sit at your collarbone or lower. If you're using cord, add two extra inches for tying knots. If you're using chain, buy a clasp and two jump rings so you can open and close it easily rather than tying it on every time.

Using a wire wrap or bail instead of drilling

If you don't want to drill, you can wrap wire around the top of the pick to create a loop for your cord. This method works best with thinner picks and takes a little longer, but it avoids the risk of cracking. Use 20 or 22-gauge wire — thin enough to bend by hand but thick enough to hold the pick securely.

Wrap the wire around the pick near the top edge, crossing over itself several times to lock it in place. Then bend the end of the wire upward and curl it into a loop large enough for your cord or chain to pass through. Wrap the loose end back around the base of the loop to tighten it. A jeweler's bail — a pre-made metal loop with a clip — is another option; you can buy them at craft stores and clamp them onto the pick without any tools.

Protecting the pick from cracking

Picks crack most often when you drill too fast or push too hard. Use a drill bit that's slightly smaller than your cord so the hole is snug and the cord doesn't slip. A bit that's too large weakens the pick around the hole. Thicker picks (0.73 mm, 0.88 mm, or 1.0 mm) are more forgiving than thin ones (0.38 mm or 0.46 mm), so if you have a choice, start with a thicker pick.

Clamping the pick in a vise or to a work surface is the single most important step. A pick that spins while you drill will crack almost every time. If you don't have a vise, ask a friend to hold it steady or use a clamp. Drill slowly and let the bit do the work — you should hear a quiet grinding sound, not a loud screech. If the bit starts to catch or bind, stop, back out, and start again.

Adding beads and decorative elements

Once you have the basic necklace, you can add beads, spacers, or charms to personalize it. Slide beads onto your cord before you tie the knot, or use a beaded chain instead of plain cord. Metal spacers between beads keep them from sliding together. You can also add a small charm or tag near the pick — a music note, a band logo, or initials stamped on a metal disc.

If you're using chain, you can attach charms with jump rings. Open the jump ring by twisting the ends apart (not pulling straight), slip the charm on, and twist it closed. This lets you swap charms without redoing the whole necklace. Keep the weight balanced so the pick hangs straight and doesn't twist to one side.

Where to get materials and tools

You probably already have picks at home. If not, they cost less than a dollar each at any music store or online. Cord and chain are sold at craft stores like Michaels or Joann, at jewelry supply shops, and online at Amazon or Etsy. A small drill bit costs a few dollars; if you don't own a drill, you can borrow one or ask a jeweler or hardware store to drill the hole for you for a small fee.

Specialty guitar pick necklace kits exist but aren't necessary — you'll save money and have more control by buying the pieces separately. Etsy sellers also offer pre-drilled picks if you want to skip that step entirely.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size drill bit do I need?

Use a bit between 1/16 inch and 3/32 inch, depending on the thickness of your cord. The hole should be snug enough that the cord doesn't slip through but loose enough that you can thread it without forcing it. Test on a scrap piece of material first if you're unsure.

Can I use a regular sewing needle instead of a drill?

A needle will not work — it's too small and too weak. A drill is the only tool that will make a clean hole without cracking the pick. If you don't have access to a drill, ask a jeweler, a music store, or a local maker space to drill it for you.

Will the necklace damage my guitar pick?

Once you drill the hole, the pick is no longer playable — the hole weakens it and the cord gets in the way. Use a pick you don't play with, or buy cheap picks specifically for necklaces. Many people use picks they've worn down or picks from bands they like but don't play.

How do I keep the pick from spinning on the necklace?

The pick will naturally hang point-down if the hole is centered near the top. If it spins, the hole may be off-center. You can also add a small bead or knot on either side of the pick to hold it in place, or use a thicker cord that creates more friction.

Can I make this with a plastic pick?

Yes — plastic picks drill just as easily as celluloid ones. Plastic may be slightly more prone to cracking if you drill too fast, so go slowly. Tortoiseshell and metal picks are harder and may require a jeweler's help.