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Thread: drilling holes in glass

  1. #1

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    drilling holes in glass

    I'm making another print washer but I'd like to have a proper drain this time. So before I destroy my fish tank, anyone recommend a particular type/brand of diamond drill bit? I'll be making a 1/2"-5/8" hole.

  2. #2
    8x10, 5x7, 4x5, et al Leigh's Avatar
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    Re: drilling holes in glass

    Check McMaster-Carr Supply Co. at www.mcmaster.com

    They have a huge selection of drill bits, including specialty bits.
    Their search tree is quite easy to use. They have no minimum order and no handling charges.

    - Leigh
    If you believe you can, or you believe you can't... you're right.

  3. #3
    wclark5179's Avatar
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    Re: drilling holes in glass

    Try Home Depot.

    Recommend the tool department and ask for a "glass and tile bit." They have a triangular point on the starting end and a small shaft attached.

    A drill press could help, but not necessary if you have done this in the past.

    Good luck.

  4. #4

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    Re: drilling holes in glass

    Quote Originally Posted by wclark5179 View Post
    Try Home Depot.

    Recommend the tool department and ask for a "glass and tile bit." They have a triangular point on the starting end and a small shaft attached.

    A drill press could help, but not necessary if you have done this in the past.

    Good luck.
    No, those aren't what's recommended and I've already tried one, it sucked!
    I've researched it a little bit and diamond is the way to go.

  5. #5

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    Re: drilling holes in glass

    Quote Originally Posted by vinny View Post
    No, those aren't what's recommended and I've already tried one, it sucked!
    I've researched it a little bit and diamond is the way to go.
    Vinny is right. A glass bit is NOT a tile bit. I haven't used one in years, I used to have to drill though bottles to do pour shots and if I recall correctly they were more of a grinding type bit than a cutting bit. Go to a glass shop and ask them if they sell them or for information regarding a supplier.

  6. #6

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    Re: drilling holes in glass

    Definitely a diamond bit, plus plenty of cooling water or other liquid. I have had mone for so many years I have absolutely no memory of it source. Checking with a good glass shop is an excellent idea. They may even do the drilling for you for far lees than the cost of a good bit.

  7. #7
    Peter De Smidt's Avatar
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    Re: drilling holes in glass

    Go here: http://www.glass-holes.com/

    Follow their directions. It's easy. I drilled 12 tanks for a fish store last weekend.

    Make sure the glass isn't tempered.
    “You often feel tired, not because you've done too much, but because you've done too little of what sparks a light in you.”
    ― Alexander Den Heijer, Nothing You Don't Already Know

  8. #8

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    Re: drilling holes in glass

    thanks peter, will do.

  9. #9
    Roger Thoms's Avatar
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    Re: drilling holes in glass

    Quote Originally Posted by Peter J. De Smidt View Post
    Go here: http://www.glass-holes.com/

    Follow their directions. It's easy. I drilled 12 tanks for a fish store last weekend.

    Make sure the glass isn't tempered.

    These were the bits I was going to suggest. The triangular shaped ones are terrible. I have a set of the diamond core bits 3/16" - 1/2" like glass-holes sells so if you live anywhere near San Francisco pm me and we can drill the holes.

    Roger

  10. #10
    Drew Wiley
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    Re: drilling holes in glass

    Entirely depends on the type of glass. Tempered glass needs special technique. But
    Dremel offers an inexpensive diamond core bit with lubricant in 1/8" and 1/4" diameters
    for around $25 apiece. Bigger than that, there are numerous brands, but you'll pay more. You have to go slow and be careful not to apply too much pressure, esp exiting,
    or the backside will chip out. Any decent tile shop or glass shop should have these.

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