Using a Dremel rotary tool, you can turn a bottle into a drinking glass, vase or candle holder. The best method for cutting the glass varies slightly depending on the thickness of the bottle. Be mindful that Dremel does not recommend cutting glass with its rotary tool, although it is possible. You may also want to consider an alternative glass-cutting tool.
Warning
To avoid injury, wear safety gloves, goggles and a dusk mask when cutting glass.
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Cutting a Beer Bottle
Most beer bottles are thin enough for the Dremel rotary tool to cut directly through the glass.
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Warning
Cutting through glass with a rotary tool may require cooling the blade with water during the cutting process, which isn't recommended by Dremel.
Things You'll Need
Dremel rotary tool
Masking tape
Pen
Diamond wheel for Dremel
Faucet or other running water source
Safety goggles
Safety gloves
Dust mask
80 grit abrasive grinding bit
200 grit sandpaper
Step 1
Wrap a piece of masking tape around the bottle at the height you plan to cut it. Draw a level line on the masking tape to guide the Dremel blade: Place the bottle flush against a right angle and turn it while keeping a pen in one place against the tape. For example, a pair of heavy books, positioned at a 45-degree angle, can create the proper guide.
Step 2
With the diamond wheel attached to the Dremel rotary tool, hold the bottle under running water and cut along the line on the masking tape. The running water helps make the blade more effective.
Step 3
After the top of the bottle falls off, the resulting edge will likely be jagged. Use an 80 grit abrasive grinding bit to sand down the edge. Finish the smoothing by applying 200 grit fine sandpaper.
Cutting a Wine Bottle
Cutting a wine bottle, which is typically thicker than a beer bottle, requires a combination of heat and cold shock.
Things You'll Need
Dremel rotary tool
Masking tape
Pen
Diamond wheel for Dremel
Faucet or other running water source
Safety goggles
Safety gloves
Dust mask
80 grit abrasive grinding bit
200 grit sandpaper
Candle
Matches
Bucket of ice water
Step 1
Wrap a piece of masking tape around the bottle at the height you plan to cut it. Draw a level line on the masking tape to guide the Dremel blade. The line can be created in the same way described in the first step for cutting the beer bottle
Step 2
With the diamond wheel attached to the Dremel rotary tool, score the bottle along the line on the masking tape.
Step 3
Prepare a bucket of ice water, big enough to hold the bottle, before beginning the next step. Light a candle, and while wearing heat-resistant gloves, rotate the scored seam on the bottle over the flame.
Step 4
Quickly submerge the heated bottle into the ice water. Wait to hear a slight cracking sound, which is when the bottle will break in two. If necessary, repeat the process.
Step 5
The resulting edge will probably be jagged. Use an 80 grit abrasive grinding bit to sand down the edge. Finish the smoothing by applying 200 grit fine sandpaper.