How to Drill a Hole Into a Glass Jar
There are many different crafts and uses for holes in glass, especially glass bottles. By drilling holes in bottles, you can make different lamps or flower containers with drainage holes. However, drilling into glass can be risky. You risk breaking or chipping the glass, ruining your drill bit or burning up the motor on the drill. Although challenging, it is not impossible to drill holes in glass bottles. All it takes are the right tools and determination to get it right.
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Instructions
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Getting Ready
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1
Pick out the correct drill bit. This needs to be a diamond-edged bit, because diamonds are harder than glass and will cut it without shattering.
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2
Insert the drill bit into the drill.
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3
Decide how you are going to get water onto the area being cut. Because drilling glass can cause the area near the bit to become very hot, you need water running over it continuously. This can be accomplished by a hose with water, by someone standing near you while pouring water on it or by making a little pool near the bit. You can make the pool with modeling clay; form a small circular dam around the area to be drilled, and fill it with water.
Starting to Drill
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4
Place your safety goggles over your eyes.
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5
Place your glass bottle in the drill press to hold it steady.
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6
Begin to drill. Use light to moderate pressure.
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7
Drill very slowly; this relieves pressure on the glass. When you are close to breaking through, slow the drill down even more.
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Tips & Warnings
Another way to start your hole is to make a starter hole in a piece of wood or other material. Place this on top of your glass bottle where you want the hole to go, and then start in your starter material. This will help to keep the bit from slipping on the glass.
Use as much water as possible, as this provides lubrication for the drill bit.
Do not use a hammer impact drill; it will bend the tips of your diamond drill bits.
Be careful using water near any electrical tools, such as your drill.
Always wear safety goggles when working with power tools, and especially glass. If it is your first time drilling a hole in a glass bottle, it is very likely that it will break or shatter.
