Drill Bits used in Handmade Jewellery

In making handmade jewellery drilling is often the first step to other processes. Piercing and riveting begin with drilling a hole. Drill bits can be used to create patterns and give texture. Drilling may look easy but there is always so much more to learn.

Take different types of drill bits. In handmade jewellery, the type of drill bits commonly used are made from high speed tool steel which is harder and lasts longer than other drill bits.

But there are tungsten vanadium steel drill bits, carbide drill bits, diamond drill bits, twist drill bits and the list goes on.

Choked drill bits are suitable for drilling metal, plastic, wood, pearl and even slate. Diamond drill bits are used for stone, glass, ceramics and other hard materials.

However drilling can be problematic if care is not taken. If a drill bit has lost its sharpness then the process is painstakingly slow and usually ends up with a piece of work which is destined for the scrap pot!

The key for longevity of a drill bit is how it is used and cared for.

Heat which is generated by friction is the main culprit of damaging a drill bit. It softens the cutting edge. Drilling at a lower speed will prolong the life but also makes the work easier to control. Drilling at a higher speed will generate heat quickly and the drill bit will break or wobble and deflect from the point.

Lubricants are an essential part of drilling. Lip balm, beeswax (also good with a piercing saw) or a bar of soap are equally good as some of the commercial preparations. Simply dip the bit into the substance of choice and drill.

When drilling debris will form round the hole being created. This is called swarth and needs clearing away. Stopping and blowing every 20 seconds or so will prevent this.

There are six major reasons why a drill bit will break

1) Speed - drilling too fast

2) Flex - excessive pressure

3) Deflection - leaning too far off centre

4) Protrusion - too much bit protrudes from the handpiece

5) Binding - not clearing swarth

6) Dryness -  an unlubricated bit

It is preferable if you can make a pilot mark first with a punch. This will leave a small indentation in which the drill bit can sit with ease before you start drilling. It makes the drill bit stay in place.

Drilling precious metal for handmade jewellery is fraught with danger. Remember safety comes first. Always wear goggles or safety glasses. There is no such person as a blind jeweller!