How to Cut Holes in Wood for a Craft

Rotary tools cut wood in many shapes.

Wood is one of the sturdiest and most reliable materials used in crafting and, due to its durability and structure, it is very difficult for crafters to manipulate. Whether building dolphin mailboxes or tropical birdhouses, those who enjoy woodworking crafts should invest in a rotary tool. This tool comes in a variety of types, ranging from simple cutters to industrial-sized power saws. The simple flex shaft rotary tool, however, makes cutting holes in wood much easier than using a hand-powered saw or other similar tools.

Things You'll Need

• Goggles
• Gloves
• Work table
• Wood
• Chalk
• Rotary tool
• Flex shaft

Instructions

1. Prepare your work area and yourself. Secure the wood you are going to cut on a flat surface. Remove any obstacles that may get in your way while cutting, such as furniture and electrical cords. Place safety goggles over your eyes and put on a pair of work gloves. These protect you from scraps of wood and sawdust.

2. Mark the locations and sizes of the holes you want to cut in your piece of wood. For a birdhouse craft, for example, you may want to cut a 4-inch hole in the wood panel, to be used for the front of the structure. Use brightly colored chalk so it is easy to see your markings as you work.

3. Screw or snap the flex shaft attachment to your rotary cutter; the method of connecting the attachment to the drill varies according to which brand and model you use. Most drills come with instructions on how to connect attachments

4. Position the flex shaft toward the wood, and adjust the wood so the portion you need to cut hangs in the air and does not rest directly against your work table or any other object. Weight the opposite end of the wood so it stays still while you cut.

5. Turn the drill on and move the flex shaft along the area you marked to be cut. Move slowly and at an even pace to get a unifromed cut. Since the flex shaft works with high precision, hold and maneuver it as you do a pen. Keep your free hand on the weighted part of the wood to keep it from slipping. When you are finished cutting, turn off the drill and sand the area around the hole for a smoother, more finished look; continue making your craft.

Tips & Warnings

• Practice cutting holes with the rotary tool and scrap pieces of wood before you move on to the real craft project. This way, you become more familiar with the tool and how to operate it before going to work.

References

• My Arts And Crafts: The Ever Useful Rotary Tool
• Home Depot: Rotary Tools