Hi everyone,
I’m starting to drill small, clean holes in glass pieces (similar to what you’d do for beads/pendants), and I’ve been experimenting with a pearl drilling machine (the small vertical drill press style used in jewelry work). Here are a few practical notes that helped me get better results—hope this is useful, and I’d love your feedback too.
What seems to matter most
Diamond drill bits: Regular twist bits chip the glass easily. Small diamond core bits or diamond-coated bits work much better.
Water cooling: A constant drip or shallow water bath keeps the bit cool and reduces cracking.
Low speed + light pressure: Let the diamond do the cutting. Pushing hard increases heat and causes chips.
Start with a guide: A small template, tape, or a drilling guide helps prevent the bit from “skating” on the glass surface.
Support the back side: Placing the glass on a flat support (rubber pad/wood) reduces breakout when the bit exits.
My current workflow
I mark the hole, apply tape, start at a slight angle to “seat” the bit, then level out and drill slowly with water running. When I’m close to breaking through, I reduce pressure even more to avoid chipping on the back.
Do you prefer drilling halfway from each side to minimize breakout, or is one-pass drilling fine if the setup is stable? Also, any recommendations for reliable diamond bit brands for tiny holes (like 1–2 mm)?
Thanks in advance!
I’m starting to drill small, clean holes in glass pieces (similar to what you’d do for beads/pendants), and I’ve been experimenting with a pearl drilling machine (the small vertical drill press style used in jewelry work). Here are a few practical notes that helped me get better results—hope this is useful, and I’d love your feedback too.
What seems to matter most
Diamond drill bits: Regular twist bits chip the glass easily. Small diamond core bits or diamond-coated bits work much better.
Water cooling: A constant drip or shallow water bath keeps the bit cool and reduces cracking.
Low speed + light pressure: Let the diamond do the cutting. Pushing hard increases heat and causes chips.
Start with a guide: A small template, tape, or a drilling guide helps prevent the bit from “skating” on the glass surface.
Support the back side: Placing the glass on a flat support (rubber pad/wood) reduces breakout when the bit exits.
My current workflow
I mark the hole, apply tape, start at a slight angle to “seat” the bit, then level out and drill slowly with water running. When I’m close to breaking through, I reduce pressure even more to avoid chipping on the back.
Do you prefer drilling halfway from each side to minimize breakout, or is one-pass drilling fine if the setup is stable? Also, any recommendations for reliable diamond bit brands for tiny holes (like 1–2 mm)?
Thanks in advance!