Power Tools: Not Just for Boys

Drilling Holes in Fused Glass

A girl can never have too many power tools. I know, I know. Most girls are into fashion and makeup and sparkle and glitter. Not me. I could spend hours perusing the power tool section at the hardware stores. I can't last 5 minutes in the mall. My husband is the luckiest man on earth.

One of my recent tool purchases (to the delight of my husband) is a drill press. He's been wanting a drill press for as long as I've known him. Apparently he was just waiting for me to suggest adding one to the workshop.

A drill press isn't required to bring my glass work to the next level, but it certainly helps. I tried drilling a hole with a hand drill once. Once was enough. The press makes it much more precise. And I'm less likely to drill through my finger.

Coldworking drilling holes in fused glass

I absolutely love the new finish the drilled holes give the pendants. With holes I can finish them off with wire instead of bails for a totally different look. 

Are you looking for a new way to finish off your fused glass work? 

All you need is a diamond coated drill bit. Just make sure whenever you drill into glass, you are doing so under water. Why?
  • Water will keep the glass dust from going airborne - which can cause serious health issues
  • Water will make your drill bits last much longer by reducing the wear and tear
  • Water will help keep your glass from shattering by keeping it cool - all that grinding produces a lot of friction and heat
Just remember to go slow and let the bit do the work. Don't apply too much pressure or go too fast; otherwise you risk breaking both your bits and your glass!

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