How to Drill a Hole in a Clay Pot

A hole is drilled in a clay pot using a procedure that will ensure success.

A hole is drilled in a clay pot to allow for water to drain. Or a hole may be required in the pot to attach some sort of hanging apparatus. Whatever the reason for drilling a hole into a clay pot, a procedure must be followed to ensure the greatest chance of success. The most common problem to guard against when drilling a hole into a clay pot is splitting or cracking the pot.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• Piece of 2-by-4
• Circular saw
• Painter's tape
• Electric drill
• Masonry drill bit

Instructions

1. Measure the inside diameter of the pot at the height where the hole is being drilled using a tape measure.

2. Mark a piece of 2-by-4 with a pencil according to the measurements from the previous step. Cut the 2-by-4 using a circular saw.

3. Place the piece of 2-by-4 in the clay pot so it spans the diameter from side to side. The 2-by-4 provides a backing while drilling to prevent the pot from collapsing.

4. Wrap the pot with painter's tape in the location where the hole is being drilled. The tape helps hold together the clay and mitigates the potential for it to crack or crumble.

5. Install the desired size masonry drill bit into the chuck at the end of an electric drill. Hold the drill trigger in your dominant hand and hold the pot steady with the other hand. Position the drill at a 90-degree angle to the surface of the pot to ensure the hole is straight. Pull the trigger and guide the drill through the pot. Pull the bit out while the drill is still running to help ensure the clay around the hole does not fracture.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish