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I'm using some circular fret marker dots to mark curtain tuning pegs on my current build. To do so, I need to drill a 3/16" hole in the center of the dot for the tuning peg. I've never drilled pearl before so was wondering how to do it.

I'm thinking that a brad point bit at high speed would be the way to go. I've got two different bits to choose from, one with really aggressive looking points and another with less aggressive points. In either case, the center point will touch down first. I'd rather use the one with less aggressive points as I expect the pearl (actually might be ablam) will wear out the bit pretty quickly and I've got about 50 holes to drill in total (about 10 of which are through the pearl dots).

Does the brad point and high speed sound like the right plan? I also have center drills I could use to start the hole in the center if it would help.

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http://www.birkonium.com CNC Products for Luthiers
http://banduramaker.blogspot.com

Ablam machines much more easily than pearl. Because of hardness, you'll want to ensure your hole is placed right first (center drill). After that, you'll want to use a bit designed to cut harder materials, and preferably perform the cut in/under a puddle of water.

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Bob Garrish
Former Canonized Purveyor of Fine CNC Luthier Services

So like a regular split point bit?

Cutting under water is probably a no, the dots are already inlaid into the pin block however, I was planning on oiling the pin block so I could use some of the finishing oil no?

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http://www.birkonium.com CNC Products for Luthiers
http://banduramaker.blogspot.com

I use a 118 twist drill. The biggest hazard is chip out on entry and the 118 angle gives a more gradual lead. Be nice to try on a test piece first. I have had problems with black pearl delaminating. White, gold and ab seem to cut easier.

Tim

Thanks Tim & Bob. I do have a test piece or two I can test and plenty of dots left over if I need further tests.

I'm glad I asked the question. If nothing else, I probably would have wrecked my pin drilling bit testing.

_________________
http://www.birkonium.com CNC Products for Luthiers
http://banduramaker.blogspot.com