How can I make a hole in a seashell?
Question:I've seen the same question and everyone said to use a small drill bit and to go slowly. I've tried this but still every shell has cracked.
Any other suggestions for someone that doesn't have the money to buy a Dremel or soldering tool?
Answers:
Use the small drill bit and apply no pressure. Go slow and add a little water to the area you are drilling. This will help prevent cracking. Always allow the drill to drill with it's own weight when using it for jewelry, pottery, and brittle surfaces.
I have actually seen this done in a shell factory in Florida. They used tiny electric drills and did not use hand pressure while drilling.
you need to use the bit with some sand and moisten the sand the sand will wear the shell out,
Before I got my dremel, I used a ceramic bit and placed a piece of tape (mostly heavy duty masking tape) across the area where I was drilled. I did not apply pressure, just let the bit do all of the work. In all honesty, about 25% of the shells I was working with still cracked whereas none of them do with the dremel, but I was working with very tiny shells making jewelry.
It appears the seashells you are trying to drill a hole in are either very thin or you are applying to much pressure.there is a very small drill that might work.I actually had to use it to remove the blood pooling under my fingernail after an accident. It is very small, about the size of the instruments in an eyeglass repair kit. I am sure it will take some time and if the shell is too thick,it may not work at all, but if it is thin enough, this drill will not crack the shell itself. I am sure you can find the drill at a medical supply store, or if you have a friend in the field, ask them if they can procure one for you. Good Luck!
Hi, and I know everyone has told you to use a drill bit, but have they told you what kind? I make things out of my shells all the time, and this is what you do,first buy a Masonry brill bit. You can also use a Glass and Tile bit,but those cost a little more,and the masonry spiral bits do fine. Next, with Masking tape over the spot your going to drill,proceed slowly.While slowly drilling,add a drop of water to the spot.That keeps the bit sharp so the shell does not crack. That's all folks! Be Patient, you must go slow. Bye
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