13 Creative Things You Can Do With A Drill Press

If you thought a drill press was only used for drilling holes, think again. This versatile tool can be used to create a variety of unique and creative projects. From woodworking to metalworking, there's no limit to what you can create with a little imagination and some skill. In this article, we'll explore 13 creative things you can do with a drill press that will inspire you to take your DIY skills to the next level. So, let's get started and see what amazing projects you can bring to life with this powerful tool.

Drill precise holes in wood, metal and plastic

A drill press is a versatile and powerful tool that can be used for a wide range of projects. One of the most common uses for a drill press is to drill precise holes in various materials such as wood, metal, and plastic. In this article, we will explore the advantages of using a drill press for drilling and how to achieve accurate and straight holes.

One of the main benefits of using a drill press is its ability to drill holes accurately and evenly. The rotating drill bit is held firmly in place, eliminating the risk of the bit wandering off-center or creating an uneven hole. This precision is particularly important for projects that require multiple holes to be drilled at the same diameter and depth.

To get started with drilling precise holes, it is important to have the right tools and accessories. The drill press should have various drill bits of different sizes that are suitable for the materials you will be drilling. It is also advisable to have a vice or clamp to hold the material securely in place while drilling.

To drill a hole, place the material you want to drill on the drill press table and adjust the table height and angle to the appropriate position. Clamp the material in place to reduce movement during drilling. Choose the appropriate drill bit and insert it into the chuck of the drill press, making sure it is tightened securely.

Before drilling, adjust the depth stop on the drill press to ensure the correct drilling depth. This is important to avoid going too deep into the material or not drilling deep enough. Turn on the drill press and slowly lower the drill bit onto the material. Apply steady pressure to the drill press handle and drill the hole at the desired speed.

During the drilling process, it is essential to wear protective gear like goggles and gloves to prevent injury. It is also advisable to stop the drill press occasionally and clean off any sawdust or debris that may have accumulated around the drill bit or on the material.

When finished, turn off the drill press and remove the material from the table. The hole should be clean, precise, and straight. Repeat the process for as many holes as needed, making sure to adjust the depth stop and reposition the material if necessary.

In conclusion, using a drill press for drilling precise holes in wood, metal, and plastic is an excellent way to achieve professional-looking results. With the right tools, accessories, and safety precautions in place, anyone can drill accurate and straight holes with ease.

Sand and polish small surfaces

A drill press is an incredibly handy tool to have in your workshop. Even though it is primarily used for drilling holes, there are so many other things you can do with it. One of those things is sanding and polishing small surfaces. In this article, we will discuss how you can use a drill press to achieve a smooth and shiny finish on your small workpieces.

First and foremost, you need to ensure that you have the correct attachments for your drill press. These attachments include sanding drums, sanding disc plates, and buffing wheels. All of these attachments will help you achieve a smooth and polished surface on your workpiece.

To get started, you need to secure your workpiece in the drill press vise. Make sure that it is securely fastened and that it won't move around while you are sanding or polishing it. Next, you need to select the attachment that you want to use. If you are sanding, then you will need to choose a sanding drum or disc plate. If you are polishing, then you will need a buffing wheel.

Attach the selected attachment to the drill press using the chuck. Make sure that it is secured tightly and that it won't come loose while you are using it. You can adjust the speed of the drill press depending on the type of attachment you are using. For sanding, it is best to use a slower speed while for polishing, you should use a faster speed.

Now it's time to start sanding or polishing your workpiece. Turn on the drill press and gently move the attachment over the surface of your workpiece. Make sure that you apply even pressure and that you don't press too hard. You can move the attachment in a circular motion or in a straight line. The most important thing is that you achieve an even finish.

If you are sanding, then you can start with a coarse grit sandpaper and work your way up to a finer grit. This will ensure a smooth finish on your workpiece. If you are polishing, then you can apply a polishing compound to the buffing wheel to achieve a shiny finish.

Finally, make sure that you clean your workpiece thoroughly after you have finished sanding or polishing it. This will remove any leftover debris or polishing compounds. You can use a clean cloth or a vacuum cleaner to do this.

In conclusion, a drill press is a great tool to use for sanding and polishing small surfaces. With the right attachments and techniques, you can achieve a smooth and shiny finish on your workpieces. Just remember to be careful and apply even pressure while you are working.

Mortise and chisel wood

A drill press is a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of woodworking tasks. One of the most useful tasks for this tool is to mortise and chisel wood. Mortising and chiseling wood involves creating a hole or cutout to accommodate another piece of wood. This is commonly used in cabinetry, furniture making, and general woodworking.

To begin mortising and chiseling with a drill press, you will need a special mortising attachment. This attachment consists of a chisel and bit that work together to create the necessary cutout in the wood. The attachment will typically fit into the drill press, and you can adjust the depth of the cutout by setting a stop on the drill press table.

To use a drill press for mortising and chiseling, you will need to follow a few basic steps:

Step 1: Select the wood you want to mortise and chisel. This could be a post, rail, or board.

Step 2: Choose the correct size mortising attachment for the job. The size of the attachment will dictate how deep and wide the mortise will be.

Step 3: Install the mortising attachment onto the drill press. Make sure it is securely in place before you begin.

Step 4: Adjust the depth stop on the drill press table to the correct depth for your mortise.

Step 5: Position the wood you want to mortise on the drill press table. Clamp it securely in place.

Step 6: Turn on the drill press and begin drilling into the wood. Move the wood around to create the required shape.

Step 7: Once the mortise is complete, turn off the drill press and remove the mortising attachment.

Step 8: Use a chisel to clean up any rough edges or uneven surfaces in the mortise.

By following these steps, you can easily create mortises and chisel wood with a drill press. With a little practice, you will be able to create precise and clean cutouts that will look professional and be structurally sound. So go ahead, give it a try and see what you can create with your drill press!

Tap threads

A drill press is an essential tool for any workshop or DIY enthusiast. It can be used to create holes in various materials and even to tap threads. Tapping threads involves cutting screw threads into a hole, which allows for bolts or screws to be inserted and secured. This article will outline how to tap threads with a drill press and some of the things you can do with it.

Before you begin, make sure you have the correct tap and drill bit for the size of the hole you want to tap. You will need a tap wrench to hold the tap, and a lubricant such as cutting oil to make the process smoother.

First, insert the drill bit into the chuck of the drill press. Adjust the depth stop so that you know how far you need to drill the hole. Apply the cutting oil to the drill bit and lower it into the material, drilling the hole to the required depth.

Next, insert the tap into the tap wrench and apply cutting oil to the threads. Place the tap into the hole and hold it straight. Turn the tap wrench clockwise to make the tap threads into the hole. Make sure to turn the tap wrench back and forth slightly to remove any debris and ensure that the tap is cutting smoothly.

Once the tap reaches the desired depth, remove it from the hole using the tap wrench. The hole should now have threads cut into it that match the threads on your bolts or screws.

With your newly tapped holes, you can do many things with a drill press. For example, you can create custom clamps with threaded holes that can be adjusted to fit various materials. You can also make jigs and fixtures that have threaded holes for precise placement and adjustments.

Tapping threads with a drill press is easy and can be done by anyone, regardless of skill level. By following the steps outlined above, you can create threaded holes for a variety of projects. With a little creativity, a drill press can be used for so many things beyond just drilling holes.

Countersink screws

One of the many useful things you can do with a drill press is to countersink screws. This is a quick and easy process that can save you time and effort in many DIY projects. Here's how to do it.

First, make sure you have the right bit. Countersink bits come in different sizes and angles. The size should match the diameter of the screw head, so it fits snugly. The angle should be compatible with the material you are using. Standard countersink angles are 82 and 90 degrees. 82 degrees work best with hardwoods, while 90 degrees work better with softwoods and metals.

Next, adjust the depth stop on your drill press. This will ensure that all the screws will be countersunk to the same depth. To do this, lower the bit until it touches the material, then slide the depth stop down until it touches the bit. Tighten the depth stop in place.

Now, set the speed of your drill press. Depending on the size and material of your project, you may need to adjust the speed. Generally, slower speeds work better for larger bits and tougher materials.

With your drill press ready, place your material on the worktable and clamp it in place. Position the drill bit over the spot where you want to sink the screw. Turn on the drill press and lower the bit slowly until it reaches the depth stop. Press down firmly on the material and drill bit to sink the screw.

Once you have drilled the countersink hole, remove the material from the worktable and insert the screw. The screw head should fit snugly into the countersink hole, allowing it to sit flush with the surface of the material. This will not only help prevent injuries caused by protruding screws but also give your project a professional, polished look.

In summary, using a drill press to sink screws is a simple and effective way to make your DIY projects look more professional. With the right bit, speed, and technique, you can countersink screws quickly and easily, saving you time and effort in the long run. Give it a try and see how much it improves your projects!

Create custom plugs and dowels

Drill presses are incredibly versatile machines that can make many different types of holes in many different types of materials. While most people use drill presses for drilling holes, they can also be used to create custom plugs and dowels.

Plugs and dowels are commonly used to fill holes in woodworking projects or to join two pieces of wood together. However, buying pre-made plugs and dowels can be expensive and limit the size and shape of the wood pieces that can be joined. With a drill press, creating custom plugs and dowels is easy and cost-effective.

To create custom plugs, start by selecting the wood that will be used. Hardwoods are best for plug making as they are more durable and resistant to wear and tear. Next, measure the width and depth of the hole that needs to be filled and cut the wood into a piece that is slightly larger.

Once you have a block of wood that is the right size, it’s time to use the drill press. Set the drill press at a slow speed and use a plug cutter bit to make the hole in the wood. The plug cutter bit will create a disc-shaped piece of wood that can be easily inserted into the hole.

If the plug needs to be flush with the surface of the wood, use a chisel to cut it down to size. If the plug will be visible, sand it until it’s smooth and blends in with the surrounding wood.

To create custom dowels, start by selecting a piece of hardwood that is the same thickness as the drill bit that will be used. Cut the wood into a long, rectangular strip that is slightly wider than the diameter of the dowel.

Next, use the drill press to create the dowel. Insert the strip of wood into the drill press and use a dowel cutter bit to create the dowel. The dowel cutter bit will create perfectly round dowels that are uniform in size.

Creating custom plugs and dowels with a drill press is simple and cost-effective. It provides woodworkers with the ability to customize their projects and create tight-fitting joints. With the right tools and some practice, anyone can create high-quality plugs and dowels at home.

Make your own biscuits

A drill press is a handy power tool for DIY enthusiasts and professionals. With its rotary power and precision, a drill press can be used for various tasks, from making holes to sanding and polishing. Another exciting project you can do with a drill press is making your own biscuits.

What are biscuits, you may ask? In woodworking, biscuits are small, thin, oval-shaped pieces of wood used to reinforce joints in furniture and cabinetry. They are made of compressed wood and glue, and they fit perfectly, like puzzle pieces, into slots cut with a biscuit cutter.

If you don't have a biscuit joiner, don't worry. You can use your drill press instead. Here's how:

Step 1: Gather your materials

You will need:

• A drill press with a forstner bit and a fence
• A piece of wood for the biscuit stock
• A pencil
• A measuring tape or ruler
• A saw (hand saw or circular saw)
• Clamps

Step 2: Cut the biscuit stock

Choose a piece of wood for your biscuit stock that is similar to the material you will be joining. For example, if you are making a joint with oak boards, use an oak board for your biscuits.

Cut the biscuit stock into strips or a rectangle, depending on how many biscuits you need. The thickness of the biscuits will depend on the thickness of the material you are joining. For a standard ¾ inch board, use a ¼ inch biscuit.

Step 3: Mark the biscuit slots

Using a pencil and ruler, mark where you want to cut the biscuit slots. Make sure they are evenly spaced and centered on the wood.

Step 4: Set up the drill press and fence

Set the depth of the forstner bit to the thickness of the biscuit stock. Attach the fence to the drill press table and adjust it to the correct distance from the bit, using the marks on the wood as a guide.

Step 5: Cut the biscuit slots

Turn on the drill press and lower the biscuit stock onto the bit, using the fence to guide it. Cut the slots to the desired depth, making sure to keep the stock level and straight. Repeat for all the marked slots.

Step 6: Cut the biscuits

Using a saw, cut the biscuits from the biscuit stock along the grain. Sand the biscuits lightly to remove any rough edges or burrs.

Step 7: Glue and join

Apply glue to the biscuit slots and the biscuits. Join the pieces together and clamp them until the glue has dried.

And that's it! With your trusty drill press, you can make your own biscuits and create strong, seamless joints in your woodworking projects. Happy building!

Shape metal workpieces

A drill press is a versatile tool that is useful for a wide range of tasks. One of the many things you can do with a drill press is shaping metal workpieces with ease and accuracy. This is especially useful if you work in metal fabrication, carpentry, or any other field that requires metalworking. Let's take a closer look at how to shape metal workpieces with a drill press.

Choose the Right Drill Bit

The first step in shaping metal workpieces is choosing the right drill bit. The most commonly used bits for metalworking are twist bits, spade bits, and hole saw bits. Twist bits are most commonly used for drilling holes into metal, but they can also be used for shaping if you choose the right size. Spade bits are a great option for larger holes or flat-bottomed holes. Hole saw bits are perfect for making round holes.

Secure the Workpiece

Once you have your drill bit ready, it's time to secure your workpiece to the drill press. Most drill presses come with clamps that you can use to hold your metal piece in place. Make sure the piece is secure before you start drilling or shaping.

Adjust the Depth

Before you start drilling or shaping, you'll need to adjust the depth gauge on your drill press. This will ensure that you're not drilling too deep or not deep enough. Adjust the gauge based on the thickness of your metal piece and the depth of the hole you need to make.

Start Drilling

Once everything is set up and secured, it's time to start drilling. Use your drill press to slowly and steadily shape the metal piece. If you're using a twist bit, make sure to use lubricant to prevent heat buildup and dulling of the bit. Depending on the thickness and hardness of the metal, you may need to use lighter or heavier pressure on the drill press.

Finish the Shape

Once you have cut the desired shape and size, it's time to finish it off. Use a file, grinder or deburring tool to remove any rough edges and ensure that your workpiece is smooth and polished.

In conclusion, using a drill press is an efficient and effective way to shape metal workpieces. By following the above steps carefully, you can transform your metal piece into the desired shape accurately and safely. With the right tools and techniques, drilling and shaping metal doesn't have to be complicated or difficult.

Square edges

A drill press is a powerful and versatile tool that is primarily used for drilling holes in different materials such as wood, metal, and plastic. However, did you know that you can also use a drill press to square up the edges of your workpieces? This task may seem daunting at first, but with the right technique and accessories, you can achieve accurate and clean results.

Here are some tips on how to square edges using a drill press:

• Use a fence - A fence is a simple accessory that you can attach to the drill press table to guide your workpiece and ensure that it stays in place. The fence can be made of wood or metal and should be adjusted so that it is parallel to the drill bit. This will help you to achieve straight and even cuts.
• Clamp your workpiece - Once you have your fence in place, use clamps to secure your workpiece to the fence and drill press table. Make sure that your workpiece is firmly held in place, so it doesn't move during cutting. This will help you to achieve precise cuts and avoid accidents.
• Adjust the depth stop - The depth stop is a mechanism that you can adjust to control the depth of your cuts. Set the depth stop to the desired depth, so you know when to stop cutting. This will help you to achieve consistent results and avoid over-cutting.
• Use a square - Before cutting, use a square to mark the edges that you want to cut. This will help you to achieve straight and even cuts. You can also use the square to check your progress as you cut.
• Use a milling cutter - A milling cutter is a cutting tool that is specially designed for use on a drill press. It has multiple cutting edges that can help you to achieve smooth and clean cuts. Make sure to use the right size and type of milling cutter for your workpiece and the type of material that you are cutting.
• Take your time - Squaring edges takes time and patience. Don't rush the process, and always check your progress as you cut. Remember to take breaks and keep your work area clean and organized.

In conclusion, a drill press can be a powerful tool for squaring up the edges of your workpieces. With the right accessories and techniques, you can achieve accurate and clean cuts that will improve the overall quality of your work. Remember to always wear protective gear and follow safety guidelines when using a drill press.

Cut metal rods and tubing

A drill press is a powerful and versatile tool that can be used to tackle a wide range of tasks, from drilling precise holes to sanding, shaping, and polishing wood and metal surfaces. One of the most common tasks that can be easily accomplished with a drill press is cutting metal rods and tubing. In this article, we'll take a closer look at how to cut metal rods and tubing using a drill press, and what tools and techniques can be used to achieve the best results.

First, let's look at the tools and materials you'll need for this task. To cut metal rods and tubing, you'll need a drill press with a metal-cutting blade or bit, a vise to hold the rods or tubing in place, and safety equipment such as gloves and eye protection. You'll also need a steady hand and some basic knowledge of how to operate a drill press safely and effectively.

To begin, start by clamping the metal rod or tubing securely in the vise, making sure that it is straight and perpendicular to the drill press table. This is important, as any deviation from straightness or perpendicularity can result in uneven or inaccurate cuts. Once the metal is securely positioned, lower the drill bit or blade onto the material, taking care not to force it too aggressively. Using a slow, steady pressure, begin to cut through the metal, keeping the drill bit or blade at a consistent angle and depth.

If you're working with round tubing, you may need to make a cut at an angle to achieve your desired shape. To do this, use a cutting guide or template to ensure that your cut is accurate and properly aligned. Once the cut is complete, use a metal file or grinder to smooth out any rough edges, and finish with sandpaper or a polishing wheel to achieve a smooth, professional-grade finish.

It's important to take your time and work carefully when cutting metal rods and tubing using a drill press. This task can be dangerous if not done correctly, so be sure to wear appropriate safety gear and follow all manufacturer guidelines for safe operation. Overall, with the right tools, techniques, and approach, cutting metal rods and tubing with a drill press can be a straightforward and highly effective way to achieve precise, professional-grade results.

Bore larger holes in wood

Drill presses are versatile and essential tools in any woodworking shop. One of their primary functions is to bore holes through materials like wood, metal, and plastic with precision and accuracy. If you're looking for things to do with a drill press, one of the most popular uses is to bore larger holes in wood. Here are some tips on how to do it:

• Choose the right bit: The first step is to select the appropriate type and size of the drill bit. For wood, it's best to use Forstner bits that are specifically designed to create clean and precise holes. You can also use spade bits or hole saws, but Forstner bits are a better option for large diameter holes.
• Mark the center: Before you start drilling, mark the center of where you want the hole to be. You can use a combination square or center-finding ruler to locate the center accurately. Once you've located the center, make a small dent with an awl or center punch to guide the drill bit.
• Adjust the height: Adjust the height of the drill press table to accommodate the thickness of the wood. The wood should be clamped securely to the table to prevent it from moving or shifting during drilling.
• Set the speed: Set the drill press speed according to the type of wood and the size of the drill bit. For larger diameter bits, a slower speed is recommended to prevent overheating and burning.
• Start drilling: Align the drill bit with the center mark and start drilling slowly. Apply steady pressure and let the drill bit do the work. Be careful not to force the bit through the wood or it could break or damage the wood.
• Clear the chips: As you drill, the wood chips will accumulate around the hole. Use a brush or vacuum to clear them away so that the bit stays cool and can work efficiently.

With these simple steps, you can create accurate and clean large diameter holes in wood using a drill press. Remember to prioritize safety throughout the process and be patient as you work through the wood.

Rout small designs

One of the things you can do with a drill press is rout small designs. Routing is a woodworking technique used to cut grooves and decorative edges into the surface of a piece of wood. Normally, routing requires a router and a set of router bits. However, if you own a drill press, you can use it as a makeshift router to create small designs on your workpieces.

Here are the steps to rout small designs using a drill press:

Step 1: Choose the Right Drill Bit

Choose a small drill bit that matches the width of the groove you want to create. You can use a regular drill bit, but it is better to use a router bit designed for small routing jobs. These bits have a guide bearing that rides along the edge of the workpiece, ensuring straight cuts and uniform depth.

Step 2: Attach the Drill Bit

Insert the drill bit into the chuck of the drill press and tighten it securely. Adjust the speed of the drill press to match the type and thickness of the wood you are routing. For softwoods, a slower speed might work, but for hardwoods, you may need a higher speed.

Step 3: Mark the Design

Mark the design you want to route on the surface of the workpiece using a pencil or a marking knife. Make sure the design is centered and straight along the edge.

Step 4: Align the Drill Bit

Align the drill bit with the starting point of the design. Then lower the bit to the depth you want to route. The depth can be adjusted by setting the stop collar on the drill bit or by using the depth stop on the drill press.

Step 5: Start Routing

Turn on the drill press and carefully guide the workpiece along the edge of the drill bit. Keep a steady pace and apply a slight pressure to the wood. Do not push too hard, or the bit can burn the wood and leave marks. Lift the workpiece off the bit at the end of the design and turn off the drill press.

Step 6: Repeat the Process

Repeat the routing process along the entire length of the design, using the guide bearing to keep the bit against the wood. If you need to make sharp turns or curves, you can move the workpiece manually, repositioning the bit as necessary.

Step 7: Finish the Design

Sand the edges of the groove with sandpaper or a sanding block to remove any rough spots. If you want to add more depth or width to the groove, you can repeat the routing process with a wider bit or a deeper setting.

In conclusion, routing small designs with a drill press is a useful technique that can benefit many woodworking projects. By following the steps outlined above, you can create custom designs and decorative edges on your workpieces with ease and precision. Just remember to keep the drill press clean and well-maintained, and to wear protective gear such as safety glasses and a dust mask. Happy routing!

Polish jewelry and small metal items

If you're not sure what to do with your drill press beyond drilling holes, it’s a good idea to experiment with various projects and techniques. One surprising application is polishing jewelry and small metal items. In this article, we'll explore how to use a drill press for polishing, buffing, and sanding your metal items.

Using a drill press for polishing jewelry and small metal items has several advantages. Firstly, the drill press allows for controlled and precise pressure. You can adjust the pressure according to the type of metal you're working on. Secondly, it saves you time and effort and ensures a more even finish than when doing it manually. Lastly, the use of a drill press eliminates the risk of damaging small or intricate components.

Materials you need

Before getting started, there are a few materials you'll need:

• Drill press
• Buffing wheel or sanding disc
• Buffing compound or fine sandpaper
• Safety goggles and gloves
• Small metal items or jewelry to polish

Steps to follow:

Prepare your workspace

Before polishing, ensure that your workspace is neat, clean, and free of any flammable materials. You need to have enough room to maneuver your drill press and work effectively. Also, you may want to secure the drill press to your workbench to prevent it from moving around.

Secure the buffing wheel or sanding disk

Choose the appropriate buffing wheel or sanding disc for your project. Then, secure it to the mandrel or arbor using the screw provided. Tighten the screw until the wheel or disc is secure and locked in place.

Attach the mandrel or arbor to the drill press

Next, insert the mandrel or arbor into the chuck of your drill press. Tighten it firmly and ensure that it's centered and balanced.

Apply the buffing compound or use sandpaper

If you're using a buffing wheel, apply the buffing compound evenly onto the wheel. Be sure to use a small amount of compound at a time so that you don't end up overloading the wheel. Alternatively, if you're using a sanding disc, start with fine-grit sandpaper and gradually move on to coarser grit for the desired finish.

Put on safety goggles and gloves

Before starting the drill press, put on safety goggles and gloves to protect your eyes and hands from any flying debris.

Turn on the drill press

Start the drill press at a low speed and gradually increase it up to a maximum of 3,000 RPM. The speed you require depends on the type of metal you're polishing, the size of the buffing wheel, and the grit of the sanding disc.

Hold the item to be polished against the buffing wheel or sanding disc

Hold the item you're polishing against the buffing wheel or sanding disc. Do this in a circular motion, applying gentle pressure but not too much, as it may cause damage. Ensure that you're holding the item steadily and moving it against the direction of the spinning buffing wheel or sanding disc.

Repeat and inspect

Repeat the process with finer grit compound or sandpaper until you achieve the desired finish. Lastly, inspect your work closely for any flaws or scratches and make any necessary adjustments.

Using a drill press for polishing jewelry and small metal items is a smart way to achieve accurate and polished results. However, always remember to observe safety protocols, start with low speeds, and work your way up to find the ideal speed for your project. With these tips, you can now take full advantage of your drill press and polish your items to a high shine.

Frequently asked questions