How to Convert a Power Drill to a Drill Press

You don't need a full-size drill press if you only use standard bits.

A drill press is essentially an electric drill that is mounted onto a fixed stand, allowing you to control the depth of your cut as well as the angle at which the drill bit enters the work piece. This means that you can technically use any drill for the process as long as you have a benchtop drill press clamp that will allow you to mount your existing hand power drill.

Things You'll Need

• Drill press clamp
• Electric drill
• Wood screws

Instructions

1. Secure the drill press clamp onto your workbench using wood screws. This will help prevent the drill press from moving around while you are trying to use it.

2. Clamp the electric drill into the press. There is one clamp that secures to the drill just above the drill chuck and another that goes around the body of the drill. Be careful, however, to avoid damaging the drill's plastic housing by over tightening the clamp. These clamps do not use tools to secure the drill. They are simple wingnut-style clamps that are tightened by hand.

3. Plug the electric drill into a standard wall socket. To use the drill, pull in the drill's trigger and lock it with its trigger lock. Next, position the workpiece on the drill press' table and pull the lever that lowers the drill bit into the workpiece.

Tips & Warnings

• In addition to mounting the drill press permanently on your workbench, you can also clamp it temporarily with a bench vise. Either method will work to hold the drill press in place.

• Always wear safety glasses when using a drill press to help prevent injuries to your eyes.

References

• "Woodworking Basics: Mastering the Essentials of Craftsmanship"; Peter Korn; 2003
• "Taunton's Complete Illustrated Guide to Using Woodworking Tools"; Lonnie Bird; 2004
• "Tool School: The Missing Manual For Your Tools!"; Monte Burch; 2008