Drilling Terra Cotta

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Greynomad
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Drilling Terra Cotta

Post by Greynomad »

Calling all handymen!
We have two terra cotta wine-coolers, which SWMBO now wants to use as pots for plants.
Thusly, she has requested that I drill drainage holes in their bases.
Any hints?
I don't want to shatter or damage them in the process, so I assume the hammer-drill is out. :shock:
Would it be advisable to use masking tape both sides to avoid break-out & chipping... I'd like to be able to show her neat holes.
What size drill would be advisable for the finished product? (The coolers are about 10cm [4"] diameter.)
Several small holes around the rim, or one large central one?
Pilot holes before reaming out?

:? Now, don't all rush me with conflicting advice... I'm easily confused. :P
Regards & God bless,
Ray
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BruceS
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Re: Drilling Terra Cotta

Post by BruceS »

Diamond hole saw.
Only way to go! Just don't tell SWMBO they are diamonds!!
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/10-Pcs-6mm-D ... 3cf74a4209
You local builder/tiler/plumber will probably knock a hole in 'em for a beer!
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SteveW
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Re: Drilling Terra Cotta

Post by SteveW »

I would go with the tile drilling bit - a flat bladed thing available at most hardware stores.

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Wilbor
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Re: Drilling Terra Cotta

Post by Wilbor »

7mm Remington Magnum will do it, actually both at the same time, just line them up
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Re: Drilling Terra Cotta

Post by supersparky »

I like Wilbors idea but it will make a bit of noise.
The diamond holesaw is the go. The next time you are in Bunnings in Wangaratta, or ???? go to the tile section, ask for a holesaw that is suitable for tap holes in tiles. It will cut about a 25mm dia hole with no problems. Just put one hole in the middle.
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Dot
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Re: Drilling Terra Cotta

Post by Dot »

I actually did a hole in a terra cotta pot and I used someones cordless drill and went very slowly but I have not said who's drill it was ;) ;)
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Re: Drilling Terra Cotta

Post by Greynomad »

Dottie,
I didn't notice my drill go missing! :D
An' ya musta snuck in at night, when the hounds were asleep... (great guard dogs! :roll: )
:lol: :lol: :lol:

And thanks all for the hints.
I shall ply the proprietor of our local Mitre 9 -1/2 (it's a small store :lol: ) with beverages before asking a favour!
Regards & God bless,
Ray
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Re: Drilling Terra Cotta

Post by BruceS »

Here you go Ray!
Sorry it's maybe too late!
https://www.aldi.com.au/en/special-buys ... bit-set-1/
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Re: Drilling Terra Cotta

Post by Greynomad »

SUCCESS!!
Holes.JPG
Slowly, slowly, with a 12mm Tungsten Carbide-tipped drill and the cordless drill at low speed (thanks for that tip).
About 5 minutes for each of the terra-cotta wine-coolers (ex-!).
The old Bendigo Pottery bread crock (on left) was a tough one! The base was almost 3/4 inch thick! Took over 30 minutes to cut through! Fortunately the drill has LiFePo batteries... the one I used just lasted the job.
Thanks all for your hints & tips. ;)
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Regards & God bless,
Ray
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Re: Drilling Terra Cotta

Post by BruceS »

Ray I had to download your photo, open it in Irfan View or Paint Shop Pro and rotate it & resave it. Then upload it again.
Must be something to do with your smart phone or iPad remembering which way is up? lol
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