SEA GLASS
THE RIGHT DRILL BITS MAKE ALL THE DIFFERENCE
KNACK
Drilling Sea Glass for Jewelry is a knack but with the right drill bits that knack is made a little easier…in fact, a lot easier.
SHAPE
As you see in the pic, the shape may seem confusing to most of you. It’s not sharp and pointed at the end with graduated spiral edges. My drill bits are barrel shaped. WHY? We are grinding Sea Glass NOT cutting it.
Using this type of drill bit reduces the shattering of Sea Glass. The time to make a hole in the Sea Glass is much quicker also.
DRILLING
To get the cleanest and straightest dill holes, I always start with my smallest drill bit. It’s the size of a needle and is the one I use the most. After the 1st hole is made I graduate to the next drill bit til the desired size is achieved. Yes, it means changing the drill bits about 5 times….but that’s the nature of getting the best hole without cracking the Sea Glass.
When drilling your piece of Sea Glass, set it in the water with your piece of wood or sponge underneath ( be sure water covers the surface of Sea Glass ). Many use a marker to mark both sides of the Sea Glass to assure a straight line. I eyeball it unless the Sea Glass is so dark I can’t see through it.
Starting at a low speed ( #2 on my Dremel dial ) to minimize the vibrations, I drill 1/2 to 3/4 way through the Sea Glass, turn it over and drill from the other side.
SAFETY
Good lighting and glasses for safety are a MUST!
GOT QUESTIONS? SEND A COMMENT! I’ll answer your questions.
MERMAID’S PURSE NEWSLETTER: Offering a 5 Part Series on SEA GLASS for Subscribers ONLY. It’s FREE, INFORMATIVE & FUN. IT’S GETTING GREAT REVIEWS.
TO GET YOURS: Fill out form at top, right corner of this PAGE . SUBMIT…you’ll receive a confirmation email. CLICK the link….you’re on your way to the world of Sea Glass with Mermaid’s Purse.
Fair Winds and Calm Seas,
Deborah Leon artist/collector
mermaidspurse@att.net
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