Hey everyone! I'm working on an art project where I'm cutting about 60 discs from a maple cylinder (it seems like it's meant for bat making on a lathe). After I cut the discs, I want to use a forstner bit to create a shallow hole for a mirror. My main concern is how to securely hold the disc in place so it doesn't spin while I'm cutting the hole. I've thought about a few methods, but I'd love to hear how more experienced folks handle this situation. Any advice would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!
3 Answers
You might want to cut the hole before slicing the disk. That way, you'll have the full cylinder to grip onto while you drill the hole. It could make things easier!
When working with small pieces, it's wise to keep them attached to a larger piece as long as possible. Consider setting up a jig for drilling into the round stock before you cut the slice off. This will allow you to repeat the drilling process consistently and then separate the slices afterward.
The method can depend on the size of your discs. If they’re around 2-3 inches, I recommend using a small cross slide vise attached to your drill press. It helps you position the work right under the bit. But if you’re using a handheld drill, just make sure to clamp the disc to your workbench properly and try to keep the drill bit straight for clean holes. If you’re going all the way through, using some scrap wood beneath the disc is a great idea to avoid damaging your bench.
This sounds like a smart approach! I'll definitely consider using a jig. Thanks!