Its quite a while since I wrote last for a bench query. This
time I want you to help me find a good drilling tip to make a small
hole in a ceramic figure to place in it a small diamond.
Hello Joseph.
Use a diamond drill instead. Mark the spot and make a "divot" in the
glaze with a small diamond ball bit (or twist a diamond scribe tip
to accomplish the same thing.)
Arrange a stable support for the figure with the area to be drilled
uppermost. Build a "tinker's dam" of clay around the site to hold a
bit of water to cool the drill as you work.
Start the drill before placing it in the divot. Lift the drill out
of the hole every few seconds to clear the bit and keep it cool.
Work to the depth you need or if you plan to pierce the piece
completely, slow the drilling process as you approach the other side
so as to avoid cracking or chipping as you break through. Gluing a
small bit of wood to the exit area will also protect that surface.
Please let us see your project when it's done.
Pam Chott
www.songofthephoenix.com
