Some Notes on Piercing

Author: John Morgan

Choice of Wood

• It must be well seasoned
• A close grained hardwood is essential

Tools

• A high-speed multi-tool such as one by Dremel, Proxxon or Axminster
• Side cutting drill bits (available from Axminster

Technique

• The area to be pierced should be about 2mm thick
• Draw your pattern on the wood
• You will not be able to stick exactly to your pattern
• If you can, do the piercing before fully hollowing out your bowl, platter or vase; it provides extra stability
• A spindle lock is essential; either a built in lock or a rod locking the index holes in the chuck
• Keep the design simple and random
• Don’t overdo the amount; it will lose its impact
• The drill bit needs to be moved up and down as it is cutting
• Don’t use force

Warning

You will find that the drill bit cuts quicker between the grain lines but takes more control and time to cut across darker grain lines.