Want to learn how to drill holes in beach stones?
Well, I’ve got good news for you: drilling small river stones is easy and I’m happy to tell you how it’s done!
I had been making this Natural Stone Jewelry for several months with pre-drilled stones that I purchased from fellow Etsy artisans. It took a little bit of internet research and guessing to figure out the best way to go about drilling my own, indigenous Wisconsin stones. Some sites said one thing, some said another.
I took the best advice from several different sources and did some experimenting and found that drilling my own, small river rocks is not only possible, but pretty easy! I’ve gotten a lot of questions from people asking how to drill their own stones and I’d be more than happy to share with you 🙂
Choosing the Right Stone for Drilling
Almost any stone that you find CAN be drilled, but I recommend starting with softer, sedimentary rocks (sandstone, mudstone, limestone, etc). If a pebble you find on the beach isn’t rounded like the other ones around it, that’s a good clue that it’s a harder igneous or metamorphic rock that would take a loooong long time to drill.
Other ways to tell if a rock is too hard to drill is by checking whether you can see crystals in the stone or whether the stone is shiny or glossy like quartz (ah, those magical wishing stones of my childhood!) Sedimentary rocks will be much easier to drill, so start with those. But, don’t worry if you can’t tell what kind of rock it is. If it takes significantly longer to drill than the other pebbles, it’s probably igneous or metamorphic. 😉
Equipment You Need to Drill Your Own Beach Stones
- High speed rotary tool – (ie. a Dremel. I got the Dremel 4000, high performance, I figure that since drilling stone is heavy duty work, it’s a good idea to have a heavy duty tool!)
- Hollow, diamond-tipped coring bits (I use the 2.5mm bit) – These are much faster and effective for drilling holes in pebbles than a solid drill bit. There’s also less chance that you’ll break the stone when drilling and it’s much much faster! Not only do solid drill bits drill more slowly, you’d need to drill a small hole and then change to an ever larger bit until you widened the hole to the diameter that you wanted. Ridiculous! For drilling holes in small beach pebbles to use in jewelry, a 2.5mm diameter hollow coring bit works well. The bits they sell that are officially for Dremels are way too expensive, you can buy economically priced 2.5mm bits here on Amazon (affiliate link) or you can get higher end bits from Rio Grande Jewelry Supply. (Note that the bits wear out pretty quickly, so don’t feel weird buying a 10-pack, you’ll use them!)
- Dremel Collet Nut – The Dremel rotary tool comes with a Collet Nut (that’s the thing that holds the drill bit in place) but the 2.5mm coring bit is a different size, so you’ll need a Collet Nut that’s the right diameter. If you don’t have time to run out to the hardware store, you can get a set of collet nuts for your dremel here (affiliate link). The larger sizes in the set will come in handy for all the other projects you dream up to use theDremel for. It can do so many things, my next experiment will be engraving poems on stones!!
- Small plastic container – This is to hold a little water so you can drill your beach stone under water. Drilling underwater cools off the bit and lubricates everything which will make the drilling go faster, keep your stone from heating up and keep those little diamond crumbs from getting ground off of the drill bit too quickly. I like to use the little plastic container that my lunch meat came in (cleaned out and sans lunch meat, of course!)
- Little Piece of Wood – Like a shim or what have you, to place under your river stone so that you don’t drill through the bottom of your water container!
- Goggles – Please always wear goggles when drilling! I always wear them even though I’ve got glasses. Real danger is minimal, it’s not like there are *usually* shards of rock shooting out all over the place, but it’d be a shame to lose your eyesight over some natural beach stone jewelry! Better safe than sorry!!
- Rocks – Yes, don’t forget your beach stones, river rocks or what have you! Small (~1″) pebbles are ideal. It’s easier to make river rock necklaces when the stones are small and thin (~1/4″ thick). That way they lay next to each other better.
Let’s Start Drilling!
- Put on your goggles.
- Firmly hold your beach stone on top of the piece of wood and just under the water.
- Turn on the Rotary Tool with your other hand and hold it perpendicular to the pebble. – Please be careful when working with the Rotary Tool around water! Don’t get any part of the tool wet that’s not absolutely necessary and don’t grasp the tool with wet hands. To make it safer to use the dremel around water, you should get a GFCI adapter that plugs into a regular outlet. Short Circuit was a great movie, but it’s less great when it happens to your precious rock drilling equipment!
- Begin Drilling. – Let the weight of the tool do the drilling for you. Be sure to periodically lift the drill up and down. (This lets cooling water get into the hole and helps the sediment from the stone to flow out.) The water will get cloudy, that’s ok, just keep drilling. 🙂
- You’ll feel when it breaks through to the other side. You’re done! – With these small beach stones, I’ve found that drilling one takes about a minute. (I’m sure it’ll be faster when I’m not so new at it!)
The only way that I alter the stones other than drilling a hole in them is to rub them with the residue left on my hands after I’ve rubbed in some unscented hand lotion (after the stones are dry, of course!). That helps to condition the stones so that the natural oils from your skin won’t leave uneven dark spots and enriches the natural color of the stone so they aren’t all dusty looking. After the lotion has some time to be absorbed by the stone, any excess should be wiped off with a clean, dry towel so you don’t have to worry about whether it will mark your clothing with an oil spot!
Now get out there and start making some fabulous beach stone creations! Good luck everyone, Happy Crafting!!
If you’re not feeling up to making your own jewelry just yet, stop by my online shop and buy a one of a kind piece of river stone jewelry to tide you over (pun most certainly intended!!)
If you’re not feeling up to making your own jewelry just yet, stop by my online shop and buy a one of a kind piece of river stone jewelry to tide you over (pun most certainly intended!!)
MmeMagpie says
Cool! Thanks for sharing. My dog brings me these gorgeous rocks from the back yard and I've been saving them in a bowl…
laurelmoon says
These are gorgeous! I love your jewelry–so beautiful, and the colors are perfectly selected!
Bev says
Thanks so much for posting this. These pieces are beautiful, and I can't wait to try them. Might be a while, though, 'cause I'm new to this world of jewelry-making.
Bev
Jenny says
Thanks everyone! You're all very welcome 😀
I'm really looking forward to experimenting with engraving next 🙂 I'll post a tutorial for that, too, if I figure it out!! (WHEN I figure it out!!)
ScattyShirley says
How do you stop the pebble from moving around. Would I be able to use a pice of Blu-Tac type stuff to position it on the wood.
Thanks
This is a great idea. I can see bead curtains being constructed with different elements to keep out those pesky flies etc.
Kourtney says
I have always wondered about this, especially since we moved into a complex that uses beautiful river stones in the landscaping (shhh!). Thanks for sharing a tutorial – now to gather the cash to splurge on a Dremel.
hairofthehare.etsy.com
CalliopeCreations says
Great tutorial. I once experimented trying to drill a hole in some jasper. 4 diamond chips later, I decided this wasn't a very good idea.
Thanks for the info.
CalliopeCreations says
Ack…
Should read "4 diamond drill tips later…"
Sigh…
rosewendy says
I have been collecting river stones for ages. They are a beautiful shape and feel. I love them. My kids think I am embarrassingly 'special' or something but now I know I am not alone. I always knew there had to be a way to make something lovely from my lovelies. I am off to print your fabulous instructions and make a shopping list.
PS- my dog often takes a stone from my collecting bucket to suck on (or something), I'll have to put a stop to that now!
Jenny says
ScattyShirley – I hold the pebble between two fingers of my left hand and drill with my right hand. If the stone is very small, I'll press it down hard with one finger. 🙂 Bead curtains sounds like a super fun idea!
rosewendy – Believe me, you are SO not the only one! Hubs is always trying to get me to give up piles of interesting rocks that pop up all over the house!! I swear I don't know how they get there, they come in on their own, I think! PS – Your dog is so weird! (in a good way!!) My bunny used to steal seeds out of my beading box and eat them so I had to be extra careful not to leave it unlatched on the floor where I used to work 😀 I know from whence you speak!
StudioMarjo says
I have one little tip to add here. When I drill holes in glass, I gently touch the drill bit to the glass at a 45 degree angle where I want my hole to be. This creates a little nick in the glass so that when I begin drilling straight down, the drill does not "skip" around and make marks outside of where I want my hole to be. It's kind of like using an awl to make a mark before drilling a hole in metal.
Jenny says
Ooh, thanks for the tip, StudioMarjo!! I know this skipping around of whence you speak!
Summerbreeze says
Hi,
I posted a question earlier and it isn't showing up so I thought I would try again. Do the hollow drill bits work with glass as well? I am having trouble drilling glass (I have been using your above technique as well). The drill bits are so fine that they bend, or the glass shatters as it goes through the glass. Both are a disaster as I loose some pretty beach glass.
Pen Avatar says
Very nice! Thank you for advises!
Where from you buy bits?
http://www.etsy.com/shop/sisyen
ceydonia says
Great info! I've been collecting ocean stones for a few years now, and didn't want to wrap them. Now I have some great ideas for them(other than backgrounds for photos…)
CAGranny05 says
I am anxious to buy my dremel and experiment. My grandfather was a collector of gold (he & my father would pan for gold) and what he calls "Whitmore" diamonds, being from Whitmore, CA. I have always wanted to make something with these stones and now I at least know how to start. Thank you for the instructions and good luck on the engraving.
Jenny says
Hi Summer Breeze! I got the message you sent me, too, but I'll answer here for everyone else:
I haven't tried it on glass, but someone posted that the method was the same with glass. I have heard with stone that shattering will happen if a solid bit is too big. You have to start small and use bigger and bigger ones, but with hollow bits, you don't have to.
Are you drilling with it submerged in water? That's really important!
Jenny says
To Pen Avatar: This is where I buy bits http://www.riogrande.com/MemberArea/ProductPage.aspx?assetName=349045&page=GRID&free_text=diamond+core+drill
CAGranny05 – I think your whitmore diamonds are probably quartz which will be hard to drill. It can be done but will take a lot of time and patience 🙂 Best of luck! I bet they're gorgeous!!
CAGranny05 says
They are quartz and various sizes. If I can't drill them, I will find another way to work them into jewelry. I can polish them up so they will really sparkle.
Steffi says
What a nice post. Thanks so much. I have read many but this is really the best. I can't wait to get started.
Raven says
Your dog is a rock collector? How cool!
Andrew says
This is exactly the information I’ve been wanting to know for quite some time, and you explained it so well! I live on the other side of the Lake in Michigan, and I share your enthusiasm for beachcombing and shore life. Now I’m jazzed to start my mobiles 🙂
Jenny Hoople says
Ooh! Mobiles sounds like a fun project 😀 Glad I could help!!
Joy says
Ha — my dog is a rock collector too. It’ so cute I had to write about it:
http://thejoyvictory.com/2007/07/17/photos-my-dog-and-a-rock-a-love-story/
Jenny Hoople says
too cute! Love your blog, Joy 😀
Sharon S Plickert says
This is awesome information! I have been looking for eons for this information. I believe there is a dremel bit advertised for at least ceramic and possibly glass, I am not sure. I have not looked closely at this part, but I was wondering if the dremel work station with the plunge capability might work well for this. That way you are not fully holding the dremel tool, rather guiding it up and down. Just an idea to try out. Thank-you again for posting this and having such awesome, clearly written directions.
Jenny Hoople says
You’re welcome Sharon! I was thinking of trying out that work station 🙂 Also, when people are drilling stones at a production rate they get a fancy schmancy “lapidary drill press” Oooooh 😀
Kristina says
Those are GORGEOUS! I’ve wanted a dremel for so long and seeing these just makes me want them more.
Jenny Hoople says
Thanks Kristina 🙂
Mindy M. says
I’d suggest not holding the stone with your fingers under water! Too easy for things to slip, and I am sure it would not be pleasant to have one of those bits drilling through your finger! Get a small flat-head C-clamp and use it upside down to attach the stone to the board. If you attach at an angle, it can stay out of the way when you drill. I started drilling my stones very recently, and couldn’t figure out why my diamond-tip drilling rasps made for stones, glass, ceramics, etc., were snapping off, or melting, or just not cutting well, and when they did cut well, the rock shattered. (Part of that was drilling at one end on rock with a “grain” and part was not realizing I needed to do it under water! That’s how I ended up here, looking for something about how to drill stones! (I have a mini-rotary tool, a regular-size variable-speed rotary tool, and a full-size reversible variable-speed 3/8″ drill, and tried all of them. I ended up using some of the longer flattened stones (more like small rocks) in “wind chimes” by notching the top all around to hold nylon fishing line wrapped around and then brought up to the top in a notched vertical trench and knotted. It seems to work, although I have had to touch up with super glue gel on bigger ones. I’d rather drill holes! And be able to use them for beads, etc. Thanks for posting!
helena frontini says
I want to make this. Thanks a lot for the motivation.
Jenny Hoople says
Best of luck 😀 You’re super welcome!!
Jenny Hoople says
Thanks for the great comment, Mindy! Do you think there are C-clamps that would work with a stone that was really small, say .5 by .5 inches? I’ll look at them the next time we pass through the hardware store 🙂 I really recommend the hollow core drill bits over regular diamond drill bits, they really help with drilling the holes and not breaking the stones, though they do tend to get clogged with stone in the middle and then are hard to clean out.
Wind chimes is a great idea, maybe I’ll make some as Christmas presents next year 😀
Bobby says
I have stuck glass and rocks down with hot glue to a piece of wood when there was no place to hold them. It seems to work and you can use the hot glue over, you just heat up the puddle and push your rock down in. Sometimes I make sure there is a little up over the edge to hold it better. The wood piece gives you something bigger to hold onto. Bobby
jennyhoo says
Good tip, Bobby 🙂 Does the hot glue work under water??
Cat B says
Oh I am SO gonna try this this weekend! I’ve got a whole bag of beachcombed moonstones and jadite from Central California and more bags of old beach glass and bits of abalone shell that I started collecting in my teens in So Cal. (30-something years ago.) I’m thinking the shell will be easiest to drill since its so thin. But, my Dremel is not a variable speed one — will it still work ok? Guess I finf out tomorrow!
jennyhoo says
I’d say it’ll probably work fine! Good luck with it 😀 (sounds like you’re gonna have an awesome time!)
AL says
This is so helpful, you are very inspiring! thank you!
ann says
I was just reading this and wanted to respond to the question regarding holding the beach stone or glass under the water. I use modeling clay. You can use a small piece, place the stone or sea glass in the clay then drill. The clay can be used over and over. Good luck!
jennyhoo says
Thanks for the tip, Ann!
jon david says
could you let me know just how long a diamond drill bit will last, here in the u.k. they cost about £3 to £4 each,thats prob about $6 to $7 ,if they are only going to last for a few holes,is it really worth it, thanks Jon.
jennyhoo says
Hi Jon 🙂 That depends on how thick the hole is and how hard the stone is. If it’s a thin stone and it’s sedimentary rock (not too hard) then I can use one bit for ~20-40 stones (occasionally poking out the rock from the center of the bit) but it only takes one really hard stone or me abusing the bit (like the time I made a little nick in a rock outside of the water and completely wore all the diamond chips off the tip at one go). If you need to drill through stone, though, diamond tipped bits are your best option!
jon david says
Many thanks Jenny for your info,Jon
jennyhoo says
Any time! 😀
Vone says
Thanks – steps are very simple to follow and thanks for the link to the drill bits. Do you think the same process would work with sea glass?
Found you from Pinterest.
jennyhoo says
Cool, Hello 😀
Yes, I’ve heard you can drill sea glass the same way 🙂 It’d be like drilling quartz, so it’d take longer than sedimentary rocks. Thanks for stopping by!
John M. says
Hi Everybody. Working with natural materials to make jewelry has always been a passion of mine, as well. 1.) A tip I’d like to pass on is simply to place an ice cube or two into the water and then use the Dremmel©, it helps take away the heat faster and keeps the water cooler longer, allowing you to drill more stones with fewer interruptions to change out the water. 2.)Oh, and Jenny I use the white plastic trays that are two inches in depth, they come from my Hormel© Roasted pork, located in the frozen food section. These give less shadows while drilling, allowing you to see your work better. As to the question about drilling glass, ceramics or crystals; I recommend glass drilling bits made specifically for drilling holes into glass, ceramics, and crystals (I wouldn’t waste my diamond tipped ones on these types of materials). Check your local hardware store for them.
I wish happy crafting days to you all. Great site Jenny!
P.S. I almost forgot! 3.)I use floral clay, (used to hold frogs in place for arranged flowers)to hold my smaller stones in place, well, simply because it works and is waterproof; you can get this item at your local arts & craft stores.
John M.
jennyhoo says
Thanks for the tips, John 🙂 I did try using cold water before, but it’s just terrible on my little fingers, so in the winter I actually use warmed up water! I’ll check out those glass bits, too, I don’t drill glass or crystals but I get that question a lot!!
Jennifer Reid says
My husband is concerned that I am going to electrocute myself dremeling in water. I pointed out that you survived the process long enough to share the “how to” on your blog, but he is unconvinced. Anything I can share from your experiences to put his mind at ease? 🙂
jennyhoo says
Hmm, well, I’m still surviving right now, too. I was concerned about the electricity and water combo when I first started too, when I asked my husband about it he just laughed and told me not to worry. Of course, he’s from Mexico and they’re used to living dangerously. There probably is some risk involved.
Wade Ferris says
If you’re really concerned about the electrical hazard, plug your drill into an outlet with a “ground fault interrupter”, or GFI, for short. They are expressly designed for this sort of thing, which is why all modern construction codes REQUIRE them in kitchens, bathrooms, basements, outdoor outlets, and any location near water pipes or dampness. They constantly watch for electric current going someplace where it shouldn’t be (like through your body), and instantly shut off all power to the outlet if and when such a current is detected. These devices have been around for years, and are a technically mature and reliable product, and also not terribly expensive.
Wade
jennyhoo says
Excellent tip, Wade! I’ll get my little fix-it man on the job, thanks!!
jennyhoo says
You just inspired a new blog post, Wade! Thanks so much again 😀
jennyhoo says
Hi again Jennifer! I just got a helpful answer to your question from another reader 😀 http://jennyhoople.com/wp-newblog/how-to-drill-rocks-without-electrocuting-yourself
Ned says
Anybody ever try to coat the inside of the core bit with something so the cores will come out easier? Maybe vegetable oil or glycerin…? Today is my 1st time drilling and I don’t want to gunk something up before I even get started.
jennyhoo says
Haven’t tried that, Ned, but as long as I don’t press hard when drilling and clear out the core before it gets all jammed in there, I rarely have a problem getting them out. Slow and easy wins the race 🙂
priya says
Thats so funny and cute how your dog collects pretty stones for you. Nice article, thx for sharing!
Eco friendly grocery bags says
Beach stones look really good and they have a rather chic appeal when used in accessories. Thank you for this blog as one can now drill the stones on one’s own to create splendid piece of jewelry. Thanks!
Accessible Pdf Documents says
These are some really exquisite pieces and I just love the designs. Thank you so much for sharing these tips and I must say that your dog is very cute.
cyra says
is that technique good for drilling concrete as well (sorry, bad keyboard setup, i can’t find the correct sign!)
jennyhoo says
I’ve never tried it 🙂 But concrete’s like a human made rock. Sorry I can’t be more help!
shari says
What a great pin to run across today! I am an incurable ‘yeah, i can probably do that’ (lazy@$$)artist, and if I had no kids, i’d be the Pintrosity Queen!! (NAILED IT!!!….?)
Your blog post is detailed with information to keep even a worrywort like me feeling smart enough to attempt the mighty dremel. My kids always find me beautiful pebbles and it would be fun to make earrings or something pretty with them. My husband has a dremel tool, so maybe I’ll be investing in some hollow-core diamond (and glass, who am I kidding!!) tips.
Well written, informative, and a ROCKIN’ comments section. I am going to follow your blog (your commenters are totally high quality!) and be back often. Also, i am repinning straight from your page.
Thanks for a fabulous post!
jennyhoo says
😀 Thanks Shari! Glad to know you 🙂
Kristin Oppold says
Thanks so much!!!!! I am educated myself on this and everything I can read helps!!!!!!
Cici says
Thanks so much for sharing, both the how to and the gift from your dog…
Melissa says
Thanks so much for sharing. I tend to collect driftwood and pebbles and would one day like to incorporat both into my jewellery. Love my dremel and do order from Rio Grande so a hollow bit will be on the next order. Thanks again!
Penny says
Thank you so much for posting this info, been wanting to try this for ages and I have some seagrass I’m going to try as well.
Rebecca says
Another reason to use water and one that should be stressed is that when drilling rocks and shells especially it is very dangerous to your lungs to breath shell dust.
Monique says
Thank you so much for this tutorial. Tried it out right away and the first stone was done within 5 minutes! I guess my Dremel is finally going to be used for something else than cleaning bead holes from now on 🙂
jennyhoo says
Good point, Rebecca! Thanks for sharing!!
Cotton says
I have been looking around and i cant seem to find if or if not it is possible to drill through rock with ordinary bits. Of course i am aware that it would take longer and most likely kill the bit but, is it possible?
Elaine Henderson says
Thanks very much for this helpful information!
toby christopher says
no comment, ned some advise I’m drilling som glass beads and some turquois stones 6 to 7 hardnes.I want to drill 1/8″ holes .
after reading you write up on core drills do think that would work for me? thnk you t. Christopher
marcelino quezada verdugo says
quisiera saber el codigo que tiene el accesorio de ´
la dremel para comprarlo aca en Chile , gracias.
jennyhoo says
Pos la verdad, no se! Pero busca una que tiene polvo de diamante en la punta y podras cortar piedra 🙂
jennyhoo says
Sorry Christopher, I don’t know! I’ve never drilled either, but good luck in your search 🙂
Yolanda McAfee says
Joy, your dog is truly a ROCK star!! 🙂
Your jewelry rocks, too!
Karen Orr says
Cool techniques!! Do you need to reapply the Eucerin occasionally to the finished stones?
jennyhoo says
Sure, if they start to lose their luster, just reapply 🙂 Also, the natural oils from your skin keep them shiny if you wear the stones against your skin!
Bonnie says
After seeing your post on how to drill beautiful beach stones, my husband bought me my first Dremel today! Now to order the diamond-tipped coring bit. Thank you for sharing your knowledge on this art with everyone.
jennyhoo says
Cool! Good luck 😀
Vic Mason says
I am having a hard time getting started dremmel told me they didn’t carry a 2.5mm hollow coring bit. Lowes and home depot do not. I was the 150 caller in line to place an order with Rio Grande,, I live on lake Ontario and have a tone of nice stones I would like to try and drill a few holes in stones to start a hobby at age 72 Thank You Vic Mason
jennyhoo says
Sorry you’re having trouble ordering drill bits Vic! I order mine online through rio grande, never tried by phone before. I don’t know what else to tell you except good luck with ordering and with your new hobby!
Melissa says
Instructions very helpful thankyou. Mel
Jonathan Sandberg says
I live Here in the kingdom of Denmark on an island called Samsø (also spelled Samsoe).
DO you coat your pebbles/Stones with anything before making a piece of jewelry ?
I ask because, i think that the natural fat that people have on their fingertips would or could discolor
the stones. how to prevent this ! I can not find any useful infomation on the internet.
Thanks, Greetings from Jonathan Sandberg
jennyhoo says
Hi Jonathan! Either I rub the stones with a light coating of neutral, scent-free moisturizing lotion to give them a natural sheen that would only be enhanced by natural body oils, or I wear the stones as-is and then if they get dark oil spots on them from being worn next to the body, I wash them with gentle soap and water.
The smoother the stone, the better it looks with a coating of natural oil! It can really bring out the subtle colors 🙂
Jim McManners says
Is this tool battery or mains driven? If mains is there nota real risk of electrical shock or worse if it slips when drilling in water ?
Karen says
Would you know what a small stone with a stripe of a different colored stone through it is called?
Thanks!
Anne Burnet says
I’m using some thicker, 3/4″ to 1″ thick, polished rocks and will need two holes minimum in each rock. Can you advise me on the complexity of drilling thicker rocks after the rocks are polished and how to determine which rocks are likely to break under certain conditions? Also, do you know a source for identifying rocks that is as wonderful as your complete and easy to follow instructions?
Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge. I am so grateful. I really like your jewelry!
jennyhoo says
No special name for it Karen 🙂 rock types are all about igneous (volcanic, you can see crystals in it), metamorphic (regular rocks pressed and heated under great pressure) or sedimentary (laid down by rivers or oceans or wind). Everything else is just the details of how it happened 🙂
jennyhoo says
Hello Anne 🙂 Something I’ve done when a rock is thicker is drill through it halfway and then mark with a pencil where to drill on the other side and drill the rest of the way. Sorry I can’t be more help than that! Good luck!!
Dina St Pierre says
Dear Mr Mason, There is a company named Contenti out of Rhode Island that I believe offers these bits item # 201-325. They also carry diamond twist drill bits I use on sea glass and stones when in need of a smaller diameter hole is necessary. I hope this helps. Dee from High o Silver in Maine
ila ossmen says
how do you hold the rocks in place
Lorraine says
I know this is off topic, but am wondering if you ever write on pebbles? I’ve tried painting with a fine brush, using black acrylic paint – leaves a wide mark; I can never get it fine. Tried a few different marker pens, including Sharpies, but they only work for one or two pebbles then won’t continue writing. Any suggestions of what really will work would be most appreciated.
jennyhoo says
Hi Lorraine 🙂 No I haven’t painted on rocks, but I would be willing to bet that acrylic paint also chips off easily. Why don’t you try a really fine brush with some india ink?
jennyhoo says
With my fingers! 🙂
Maddy says
Love it [them]. You need a ‘pinterest button’ on your site so we can share with others. Thank you–you’ve polished off my Christmas list for me.
Stephanie Boismenue says
Beautiful jewelry and thank you for the terrific instructions. I’m in Northern WI and spend a great deal of time rock picking on both the lake I live on and Lake Superior. My collection is large and have lots of beautiful rocks to choose from. Excited to get started.
Ollie says
I would like to start a small jewellery business, but the Dremel 4000 is awfully expensive, and so are the coring bits. Do you have any other recommendations?
I am also getting a set of bead reamers for stone, glass and ceramic. Would these work on pebbles? I would also like to use sea glass. Would a drill work on this?
Thanks,
Ollie
jennyhoo says
If you are serious about starting a business then the dremel is a small expense
George Marshall says
What about gneiss/mica schist for drilling into?
Deb says
Thanks so much for taking the time to share these steps and answer questions. I’ve been a rock hound since I was a kid and can’t wait to start making things out of all the pebbles I’ve collected through the years. SO glad I found your blog!
jennyhoo says
Awesome! Rock on, Deb!!
Maria says
Thank you for the tips!Your jewelry is beautiful!
jennyhoo says
Thanks Maria!
Deanie says
Thank you for all your tips and the time you tak to answer us. Where do,you,find most of your rocks, beaches, rivers, ocean, streams etc?
Grammytina says
great tutorials, still searching for one on wire wrapping stones/rocks
jennyhoo says
I find most of them on lake shores 🙂 The bigger the lake, the better the rocks 😀 I bet the ocean would have some nice rocks, too, but as I live in the center of the country, the Great Lakes are my ocean!
Meghan Red says
Thanks so much for this info. I have some wonderful stones that need holes.
Meghan Red says
Hi: I clicked on your link at Amazon for the drill bits, but the ones I got are not hollow. They do not look like the one you have pictured. Please check this out, so your readers are getting the correct bits. You can answer me at my email if you want to.
Jenny Hoople says
Hi Meghan! The link goes to a product search page. There are various bit sizes to choose from that way. Sorry that it confused you! If you look at the descriptions, there are some on the page that specifically say that they are coring bits.
katja says
wow! thank you so much for sharing! we were just on our honeymoon in iceland and i brought some soft smooth rocks back with me hoping to put one on a necklace as a momento, but i’ve been afraid to try it because i wasn’t really sure the best way to go about it!
thank you!! 🙂
Jenny Hoople says
Iceland? Cool!! Good luck 😀
Cheryl says
Your work is beautiful. Have been wrapping stones to make pendants, but would prefer a whole as means of suspension. I am terrified at the thought of a drill, and certainly would not hold stone with my hands (!!!). Have you tried any sort of clamp to hold stone while you drill? Will be retiring from my day job, and may get more serious about jewelry making. . . . . . .
Jenny Hoople says
My hands are the best clamps 🙂 Haven’t injured myself yet!!
Marshall says
To get the best life and the easiest drilling from your glass bits, use pure antifreeze instead of water. You can re-use it several times.
Jenny Hoople says
Thanks for the tip, Marshall. Not sure I want to have my hands soaking in anti-freeze, or my face splattered with it, though 🙂
Dani says
Thanks for the great tips. I have made mobiles with my grandkids using sea glass. I have gone through different types of drill bits.. I have drilled my glass with the drill tip and sea glass under water. Its been hard. Have you tried to drill sea glass? I have been told to use ceramic drill bits and.. oh, I forgot the other type. I would think rocks would be a lot harder.
Jenny Hoople says
Glass is harder than the rocks I drill. Drilling glass would be like drilling quartz. I’ll have to try ceramic bits, never heard of those 🙂
Peggy hunt says
You rock! Thanks for shaing
Jim Richardson says
I didn’t see anything about what is the best RPM to use, High or low. Thanks
Jenny Hoople says
I don’t really know myself Jim 🙂 I use the middle setting!
Diana/Mermaid says
Hi! Thanks so much for all the worthwhile info. you are sharing! Lately, I’ve been trying to drill some knotted strings out of some God forsaken plastic beads (for a friend). My hands are killing me, so the clay will be a practical solution for me. Your blog is terrific! Keep up the good work!
Tracy says
If you use a flex shaft on your dremel it allows you to hang the dremel and hold only the bit, not the electrical part near the water. It is easier to maneuver as well. Be safe everyone.
Penny says
Found a dremmel 400 variable but there are difference variances which one did you use?
2/30,6/ or 3/34 or 6/40 all 120 volts please let me know also want to drill Crystals found in a crystal mine.
Jenny Hoople says
Thanks for the tip Tracy! That would be easier on the hands too 🙂
Jenny Hoople says
Hi Penny! It hurts my brain to even think of all those numbers 😉 I don’t know if it matters and if I went out to buy another dremel today, I would just pick one and go with it. Sorry I can’t be more help to you! Good luck!!
Taylor says
Can you do it with out using a drill?
Jenny Hoople says
Nope 🙂
monica says
Thanks so much for the info. I want to make buttons for my quilt art. Your jewelry is beautiful.
Burmaa Dorj says
Hi dear
let me know how I will buy
small drill… is it possible to order by online?…
alun ward says
Hi Jenny, just to say thanks so much for putting this online. It started me off on my own project to insert mini speakers into pebbles, and really gave me the confidence to think it was even possible. Why oh why did I think all pebbles would be the same hardness, haha!
Jenny Hoople says
mini speakers in pebbles?! Awesome!! are you going to sell them? 🙂
Richard says
I’m glad you mentioned wearing goggles. (A+)
You also need to be wearing some kind of mask for particulates and to work in a ventilated area. Breathing in rock-dust can lead to serious conditions (like silicosis). Of course, your lungs don’t crystallize overnight. You’ll feel the effects 10-20 years later. Sooner if you’re a smoker. 🙂
Jenny Hoople says
Thanks for the advice, Richard! All the rock dust around here stays in the water, but that’s good to know if I do any huge sculpture pieces!
Bridget says
Thank You for the cool tips. I have been collecting some stones from the beaches her in Cali but had no idea where to start as far as drilling hole to make jewelry out of them. Now I just need to get motivated to start the process.
Ann says
I’m wondering how you clean the pebbles? I was thinking of putting some small ones in resin but wondering about the best way to clean them. I’ve tried dawn soap and soaking them in vinegar but there is still a slight river smell. Any suggestions?
Jenny Hoople says
That’s why I don’t pick up pebbles from rivers. The great lakes and the ocean, they clean pebbles better than anything can! I guess, if I were you, I’d try boiling the rocks. That would kill any bacteria in there that’s creating the smell. That’s what you’d do to get them ready for an aquarium.
Frnkie Appling in California says
Hi Jenny, I am so happy to run across this info as I just
bought myself a Dremel and other equipment for
Christmas to drill all my beach glass and all the wine
bottles I have collected, as well as rocks that I love. Thank you for all the time you have put into this and it has been
so helpful, as well as all the people who have had such helpful comments. Thanks to everyone and Happy New Year
to everyone.
Marilena Skouloudi says
Thank you very much for the instructions. I am a rock/pebble collector and your instructions will help me a lot. However I have one question. … Isn’t dangerous to use electric appliances (the Dremel in our case) in water??? Thank you.
TERESA WAHLEITHNER says
I just wanted to take the time to thank you for your valuable article on rock drilling. My husband and I are working on starting a small business using the rustic materials from the Cascade Mountains. It has been a learning process. Your simple directions and information on selecting rocks is spot on. It was nice to have something work out exactly as it should! I am so grateful to you for taking the time to help others discover the beauty and magic of this art.
Lisa Polzel says
Very informative and easy to read,follow and understand. Collected some great rocks from last vacation, anxious to give this a try. Thank you
Denise says
Thanks so much for sharing this!
CaliKat777 says
I’m echoed to get started. I have a large jar of stones my grandmother blessed to me. Stones she’s collected from beaches week around the world in her travels. A joyful way to travel .. through her experiences. I’ve also been seeking a consistent and what way to drill. A bench press is on my list. They do carry nice ones at Harbor Freight for a great price. Way to go when you’re discovering that which you love most in jewelry making and design. Great to have on hand when you have an urge to do something different as well. I’ve not touched one of Gmas Stones in fear of destroying even one of them. Now I’m certain how to move forward and week practice on a few first..with CONFIDENCE! THANK YOU FOR ALL THE GREAT TIPS … pun intended 8 )
CaliKat777 says
I Apologise incorrect words. My cell has a mind if it’s own no matter what is typed in. I’M EXCITED, beaches ALL around, A consistent & SURE way, and WILL practice on a few others first.
Again thanks for how to’s and where to’s!
CaliKat777 says
A lil virgin coconut oil used the same way you have done with lotion..love what it does. Hope you do as well.
Ann Stephenson says
Thank you SO MUCH! for this very informative article!!! The info on drill bits and collet nuts will save me a lot of time and frustration……..You’re a doll. Annie
Kim Reynolds says
I’ve been using water to drill my stones and beach glass for a few years now and I’ve never had a problem. I only use a small container 4×4, there isn’t enough room to get your cord in there while your working.
Kim Reynolds says
I’ve tried them all and using the diamond core bits is so much easier, takes less time and in my opinion cost less than the amount of bits I go through if using others!
Kim Reynolds says
I drill beach glass all the time, some are marbles and I’ve broken quite a few nice pieces until I started using the core bits. But I started using just diamond tip bits, which work well if you don’t apply to much pressure especially as your nearing the end.
Kim Reynolds says
I use the core bits on my beach glass now and the only time I break any is if I apply pressure when I’m almost through!
Silvia says
Question–have you ever tried drilling holes in sea shells? I have several olive snail shells I collected and wanted to turn them into pendants for necklaces. I just don’t know where or how to start?!
Jenny Hoople says
I’d drill them just the same way as the instructions for drilling the stones 🙂
Lolly says
Hi Jenny
Came across your site by chance. Love it. I work with all sorts of beads. I now want to go get some rocks and glass. Just another addition to my crafting. It sounds like fun.
David Britton says
The link provided does not access any page with hollow core, diamond drill bits. Only solid. Do you have another link?
Adrian Batchelor says
Not sure if this in the text but please use water to keep the diamond tips cool it may even preserve the life of the bit ,(UK)
Jenny Hoople says
Hi David! I fixed the link, thanks for mentioning it! http://amzn.to/2fh5OGQ
Lisette says
Hello,
I’m just starting with rock jewelry and art. I was wondering what rpm do you have the dremel? I have been trying to drill a hole in river rocks and have my dremel at 15000. Should I go faster? Also how long does it take? I feel I’ve been drilling the same hole on the same rock for awhile now.
Jenny Hoople says
If it’s taking a long time, probably you have a very very hard rock. And you may have busted the diamonds off the tip of the drill with all that hard drilling. So, try a softer rock and a new drill bit. I set my dremel to the medium speed, whatever that is.
Dinyar M. Dalal says
Love your blog. I learned a lot (I am a Pre-beginner).
Can you pl suggest what Grit size is best in diamond coated drill bits? There is a wide range from 40 grits to 600 grits. Using my Dremel, I am planning to work with Ceramic tiles, Glass, Porcelain tiles, etc.
Thank you.
Mags says
When drilling quartz or working with fire agate, I always use diamond bits. These rocks are SUPER HARD! And tend to eat bits rather quickly.. I’ve found when drilling if I start my hole with an engraving or carving bit ( looks like a ball with drill bit fins on it) it helps emencely!!
Mags says
Also, make sure to keep it as wet as possible! These suckers get increadably hot very quickly!!
Rabia says
Bless you for sharing.
rabia.hershey@gmail.com
Fran says
For drilling beach glass I use a flat ash tray or candle holder base, put clay in the bottom to hold the stone or glass and then cover with water before drilling.
Sdmathis67@comcast.net says
Did you try the work station?
Jenny Hoople says
Work station?
Builder Chick says
I have drilled igneous rock using a hammer drill. Any thoughts on drilling smaller holes in harder rock? I know how to drill BIG rocks, Cut slate sheets, but not the smaller ones I have collected from an active fault line in Alaska. Light bulb! Granite counters are machined. I will look that up. Maybe I can size down the process for producing them.
exp.builderchick
Linda Spreen says
No He’s a rock hound lol
Carol says
How do you keep the tool perpendicular to the stone. Do you use a drill press or work station?
Jenny Hoople says
I do it by eye!
Suesmith says
Would it help to tape where you’re drilling ?
Scott R Werner says
I want to drill hole in Tiger Eye very rare polished Store bought stone from India.Any hiden danger or suggestions?
Carrol says
Thank you, This was very helpful! Posting the sights to purchase drill bits and collets was very thoughtful😁👍
Melissa Pearson says
LOL! That’s my kind of canine!!
Jenny Hoople says
It will be very hard to drill. I wouldn’t try it with this method.
Gerald says
Thank you for posting this very clear instruction video. It’s the very best of its kind that I’ve been able to find.
And your work? Outstanding, of course…!
Gerard Thompson says
Your site has been very informative about drilling beach pebbles ect ect, Thank you
Connie says
A “Rock Hound!”
Evonne says
You ought to be a part of a contest for one of the most useful sites on the web.
I most certainly will highly recommend this website!
Debra says
This is just wonderful! Thanks so much. I have been collecting flat beach rocks for years. I just got a dremel too for resin. I cannot wait to drill some of my rocks. Thanks again.
Gilles Lagarde says
Très intéressant, je vais essayer cette technique avec ma perceuse à colonne , (je suis français), je prendrais un bac rempli d’eau avec du bois en fond, et coincer la pierre avec un mini étau en aluminium qui baignera dans le bac, si le perçage prends pas trop de temps (moins d’une minute) votre technique est excellente, je présume que la vitesse de coupe doit être faible, moins de 1000 tours minute… en tout cas merci pour ces explications, cordialement Gilles.
Adrienne says
I’m visiting Lake Michigan in Wisconsin and wondering where you found this rocky beach. Being from FL I love different beaches. And trying find one to bring home a souvenir. Thanks Adrienne
Jenny Hoople says
Just head to the shores of any of the great lakes and start walking 😉