How to Drill a Hole in a Large Bead

[Helene]

I've been mulling over a way to be able to drill holes over an inch deep. 
Lets find the better ways on how to drill our rocks topic got me to thinking of an alternative way.
Below is my process.  It's the first ones I've tried I think it has potential.

Enchantra's Note:  Edited title per Helene's request.

[Helene]

Make sure the two sides of bead align.

[Helene]

The epoxy can be worked for about 15 minutes, but takes 24 hours to cure.  Can be taken out of the vice in a few hours.

[Helene]

Finished Bead - Imperial Jasper

[Helene]

Another Bead

[Helene]

Got a little excited with this process and decided to make a piece of jewelry.  This project was so unplanned that I'm not sure about the design especially on the back because most of it was an afterthought.  Not fully realizing that these pieces could be reversible. 

The diamond shaped bead is two-sided one side is pink opal and the other is pink limb cast.

Front Side -  Crysophrase cab added.

[Helene]

Back Side total afterthought

[DonniesTreasures]

      shocked30           eyes12             hatsoff14         eyes12          shocked30               toocool1       



I like it, a lot!!!!

[deb193]

I've cut several thin slabs for a similar method. I'm using a different material on the back too. Only I am planning 3 layers to avoid having to grind the line. I will cut it.

not sure when i will get it finished

i think it is a smart method

[lithicbeads]

Congratulations , very slick method. I like the eye candy !

[39don]

I love your creative talent on this simple but incredible solution. You get to go to the front of the class........            hatsoff14                     hatsoff14                  hatsoff14

[christopherl1234]

That is soooooo cool!!

[southerly]

Awesome idea, I love it. Thank you for sharing Helene, it is what I love about this forum.

David

[ScarlettoSara]

Helene:) If I had all these stones laying next to each other I wouldnt be able to see how they could become a work of beautiful. But with all the pieces set in just the right place it is quite beautiful.
I love the way your mind works Lady:)

[Helene]

I've cut several thin slabs for a similar method. I'm using a different material on the back too. Only I am planning 3 layers to avoid having to grind the line. I will cut it.

I think the middle slab is great for smaller cabs, but for bigger beads - over 1 inch to 3 inch beads it takes lots of time to flatten one side.  So instead of having to flatten two sides you would have to flattern four.  Unless there is a material that comes in about 2mm thick perfectly flat sheets in a variety of colors (choose what color goes best with stone) that can be used as the middle piece, of couse sliced in two spread apart to width of bead wire before glued to the two slabs.  If this is a good thought does anyone have a good idea for this middle material?

Maybe either way you go would be the same amount of work time.  I'm giving your approach a try to see which works best for large beads and for sure try on smaller ones.