The basic method: drill, string, and wear

A guitar pick necklace starts with a hole drilled through the pick itself, then a cord or chain threaded through it. The simplest version takes about five minutes: use a small drill bit (typically 3/32 inch or 2.5mm), find the pick in a vise or clamp so it does not slip, drill slowly to avoid cracking the plastic, then thread paracord, leather, or chain through the hole and knot or clasp the ends.

The pick material matters for durability. Standard celluloid picks are brittle and prone to cracking when drilled, especially if you use a bit that is too large or drill too fast. Delrin picks (the opaque, durable kind) handle drilling better. Tortoiseshell and metal picks are harder to drill at home without a press, so they are better left to a jeweler if you want them drilled.

Most people use a hand drill or a small rotary tool like a Dremel on low speed. A drill press gives you the most control and the least risk of the bit catching and snapping the pick, but it is not necessary for a single necklace.

Key Takeaways

  • Drill a 3/32-inch hole through the center of a guitar pick using a hand drill or rotary tool on low speed, holding the pick steady in a vise.
  • Delrin picks are more durable for drilling than celluloid picks, which crack easily if the bit is too large or the speed is too high.
  • Thread paracord, leather cord, beaded chain, or ball chain through the hole and tie or clasp the ends to fit your neck.
  • Seal the hole edges with clear nail polish or a thin coat of resin to prevent fraying and extend the life of the cord.

Choosing the right drill bit and technique

A 3/32-inch drill bit is the standard size for guitar picks and leaves a hole large enough for most cords without weakening the pick too much. If you use a bit that is too small, the cord will not fit; too large, and the pick will crack around the hole. Start with a smaller bit (1/16 inch) and step up if needed, rather than guessing and overshooting.

find the pick in a vise, clamp, or even a folded towel on a table so it cannot move while you drill. Wrap the pick in a thin cloth to protect it from the vise jaws. Drill slowly and let the bit do the work—pushing hard or spinning too fast generates heat and pressure that cause the plastic to crack. If you feel resistance, stop, back out, and try again at a slower speed.

A rotary tool like a Dremel works well for this task. Set it to the lowest speed setting (usually around 5,000 RPM), use a small drill bit attachment, and hold it perpendicular to the pick. A drill press is ideal if you have access to one, because it holds the bit perfectly straight and you control the downward pressure with a lever.

Cord and chain options

Paracord is tough and affordable. A 2-3mm paracord in black, brown, or a color that matches your style threads easily through the hole and can be knotted at the back of the neck or adjusted with a sliding knot. Leather cord (1-2mm) gives a more finished look and works well for stage wear. Ball chain and beaded chain (the kind used for dog tags) are durable and come in silver, gold, and black finishes.

For a more polished necklace, use a thin chain (2-3mm link size) with a small lobster clasp. Thread the chain through the pick hole and solder or crimp the ends to the clasp. This method takes longer but looks professional and is straightforward to put on and take off.

Length matters. Most people wear a pick necklace 18-24 inches around the neck so the pick sits at the collarbone or slightly lower. Measure a necklace you already own to find the length you prefer, then add an inch or two for the knot or clasp.

Protecting the hole from fraying and wear

The edges of the drilled hole can be sharp and will fray or cut through cord over time. Seal the hole by explore a thin coat of clear nail polish or clear resin around the opening on both sides of the pick. Let it dry completely before threading the cord. This step adds weeks or months to the life of the necklace.

If you use paracord, you can also melt the ends slightly with a lighter to prevent fraying, though this is less critical if the cord is knotted on the back side of the neck where it is not visible.

Adding beads, charms, or multiple picks

Slide small beads onto the cord before knotting it, or thread beads on either side of the pick for a more decorative look. Wooden beads, metal spacers, and stone beads all work. You can also attach a small charm or tag to the cord below the pick using a jump ring.

Some people make multi-pick necklaces by drilling several picks and stringing them on the same cord at different heights. This works best with thinner cord like leather or thin chain, and the picks should be spaced so they do not overlap or tangle.

Finishing and wearing your necklace

Once the cord is threaded and knotted, try the necklace on to check the length and make sure the knot sits comfortably at the back of your neck. If you used a clasp, test it several times to make sure it holds. Trim any excess cord and seal the cut ends with a small amount of clear nail polish or a lighter if using paracord.

A guitar pick necklace is durable enough for daily wear and will not damage your guitar or strings. The pick itself will eventually wear smooth from contact with your skin and clothing, but it will not break unless the cord fails or the hole cracks. Replace the cord if it frays or shows signs of wear, or drill a new hole in the same pick if the original one becomes too large.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size drill bit do I need for a guitar pick?

A 3/32-inch (2.5mm) drill bit is standard and fits most cords. If you are using thinner cord like fishing line or thin leather, a 1/16-inch bit works. Test the fit before drilling all the way through by holding the bit against the pick and the cord you plan to use.

Will drilling a pick ruin it for playing?

Yes. A drilled pick is weaker and will crack or break during normal playing. Use a pick you do not plan to play with, or buy inexpensive picks specifically for necklaces. Delrin picks are tougher than celluloid and less likely to crack if you do want to play with a drilled pick, but it is still not recommended.

Can I drill a metal pick?

Metal picks are very hard and require a metal drill bit and a drill press or professional equipment. A hand drill will not work. If you want a metal pick necklace, take it to a jeweler or machine shop and have them drill it for you.

What happens if the pick cracks while I am drilling?

Stop when ready and start over with a new pick. Cracks usually happen because the bit is too large, the speed is too high, or the pick is not held steady. Slow down, use a smaller bit, and make sure the pick is clamped firmly before trying again.

How do I know what length necklace to make?

Measure an existing necklace you wear comfortably, or measure from the back of your neck around to your collarbone and add one inch for the knot. Most pick necklaces are 18-24 inches. You can always adjust a knotted cord later by tying it tighter or looser.