how to drill a hole in a shell?

Answer 1

It depends on the shape of the shell. I'd fill it with molten wax and allow to set (this will protect the shell from break-out) I'd then use the sharpest and smallest drill suitable to drill the hole using minimal pressure and water to cool the shell and bit.
When you've finished drilling immerse the shell in hot water to remove the wax.

Answer 2

I have honestly never done this, but I have drilled glass, and tile. For this they make glass and tile drill bits. Your typical drill bit will catch the shell once the point drills through, bind, and break the shell. The glass and tile drill bit is designed completely different and doesn't even look like a drill bit. Instead looks like an arrow. You still have to be careful. And tape won't keep the shell from cracking if the bit binds but it MAY help keep the tip of the bit from walking away from where you want to drill. Good luck.

Answer 3

Use a hand operated drill. Go very slowly. Put sticky tape over where you want the hole to be and drill through that.

Use the smallest masonary drill you can find, then make the hole bigger by using progressively bigger drills.

Good Luck!!

Answer 4

I would use a masonry drill,because you would just ruin a regular drill. Of course the thickness and hardness have a lot to do with it, never the less I would use a masonry drill.

Answer 5

Apply celllotape in a cross fashion over the spot you want to drill and use a masonary drill that should do the job.

Answer 6

Put a bit of masking tape on it and drill through it using a mechanical hand drill.

Answer 7

The best way is if you have a stationary vise . Use some padding to put around the shell and gently tighten it in. Then with a very small drill bit , gently drill your hole.
Not guaranteed to work, but I have done it with few breakages.

Answer 8

Place a piece of mask tape over the spot u want to drill...then it will not slip or chip.

Answer 9

with a drimell drill

Answer 10

put masking tape over the area to be drilled