Mary, my top from Etsy has the seaweed glued down. Not sure what kind of glue the seller used, but it's definitely better than hand sewing the whole thing because that would take forever. I would advise hand sewing the high-impact areas (the spot in between the shells in the front has already had a couple pieces fall off) and if you figure out a good way to clamp it while it is gluing that would probably help the adhesion. Also, be careful to glue it while the fabric is stretched. If you don't, the glue will prevent it from stretching once it's dried and you won't be able to put it on!