How to Drill a Hole Into Flatware

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Things You'll Need

  • Permanent marker

  • Scrap wood block

  • Small-tipped metal punch

  • Hammer

  • Soft cloths or rags

  • Vise

  • Rotary tool or drill with metal drill bit

Making bracelets, coat hooks, drawer handles or windchimes out of flatware requires drilling a hole in each piece, typically in the handle. To drill the hole successfully, you need a vise to hold the piece steadily as you drill; otherwise the drill bit may catch on the curves and angles on the handle or bowl of the piece being drilled. Wrap the flatware in a soft cloth before clamping it, or it may become scratched or damaged by the vise.

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Step 1

Determine the ideal location for the hole on one piece of flatware, such as 1/4 inch from the end of a spoon handle, centered. Make a small dot with a permanent marker at this location.

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Step 2

Place the flatware atop a piece of scrap wood so the marked spot faces up. Place a metal punch over the spot and tap it with a hammer to indent the metal. The indentation makes it easier for the drill to stay on track without slipping.

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Step 3

Wrap the center area of the handle with a soft cloth or rag so the cloth is thick enough to protect the piece from the jaws of the vise.

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Step 4

Clamp the wrapped flatware in the vise so the area marked for drilling is in a position convenient for you to reach. Tighten the vise around the cloth until the flatware is secure and doesn't move when wiggled.

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Step 5

Position the drill bit over the indentation in the metal. Use a drill bit wide enough to fit the wire, jump ring, screw or material you intend to put through it, such as a 1/8-inch or 1/16-inch metal bit. Drill through the metal.

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Step 6

Drill through the hole from the other side to remove stray bits of metal and burrs. Repeat the process again from the front, if necessary.

Tip

If your project calls for a flattened spoon bowl and a hole in the bowl portion of the spoon, flatten the bowl before drilling -- it will be easier to drill without the bit slipping.

Opt for flatware with thin handles, rather than thick, chunky handles such as those found on some butter knives. Thin handles drill more easily.

Warning

Wear eye protection when drilling to avoid potential injury.

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