what tools do I buy to punch/drill small holes out of things like shell & buttons (for making accessories)?

Question

electrical drills seems too expensive & overly huge for this job.

Answer 1

A rotary tool is what I use when my wife puts this type of task before me. There are several manufacturers but the most notable is Dremel. Craftsman makes one tool they have all kinds of bits like drilling bits, buffers, sanders, grinders, etc. and they are very affordable. About $30 and up from there. You can get them at Sears, Home Depot, or Lowe's. There is a link to Home Depot so you will have some idea what I am talking about. http://www.homedepot.com/prel80/HDUS/EN_US/diy_main/pg_diy.jsp?BV_SessionID=@@@@1955696657.1158345232@@@@&BV_EngineID=ccdkaddilgdmkljcgelceffdfgidgki.0&CNTTYPE=PROD_META&CNTKEY=misc/searchResults.jsp&MID=9876&N=2984+3966&pos=n24

Answer 2

There is a store in Gallup New Mexico that deals with jewelry and all the accessories for people who make jewelry of all types.
It is the "THUNDERBIRD SUPPLY CO."

Website: http://www.tbscorp.com

Email: [e-mail]

You can write to them or visit their website. There is a large Native American Population in Gallup, because it is part of a Reservation.

I have visited their store every time I have been in Gallup. It is right on the highway that goes through Gallup.

To talk to them, 1-800-545-7968

It has been a few years since I have been there, but I am sure they are still oprating. It is a big
place.

The Drill you are talking about should be a Dremel, which is a hand held tool about 1 1/2" in Diameter.

The drill themselves, should be diamond or Tungsten.
High speed drills will not work. If the Dremel is too expensive for you, a hand operated drill will also work.

Answer 3

Get a Dremel tool with an assortment of drill bit sizes and other attachments. It is a "Principal" tool for the handy crafter. You can get a fair quality "knock off" for $20 bucks or less, but a Dremel will hold up to heavy use and will save you money in the long run.

Answer 4

Try a dremmel.

I've used them to drill thru tile, plastic, etc, without ever cracking anything. You can pick them up from lowes or home depot for easily under $50.

Answer 5

There's a gadget called a Dremmel. They are small, relatively inexpensive, and there are attachments available for nearly any job. For craft projects they're terrific.

Answer 6

You should be able to find a small auger at any craft shop such as Michael's. They also have how-to books that can give you great ideas on design, etc.

Answer 7

Sledge hammer, obviously.