I've been using some 5-gallon plastic buckets as planters and managed to drill drainage holes in them. The issue is that the holes are quite small, about 1/8 inch, but I actually need them to be 1/4 to 1/2 inch in diameter. I've tried using my largest drill bit and thicker screwdriver bits, but they aren't doing the trick. Since I'm not looking to spend money on new bits for this one-time project, I'm wondering if anyone has tips for enlarging the holes without buying any new tools?
3 Answers
Honestly, if you're not ready to invest in a tool, it might be tough. You could use a spade bit, which is usually pretty cheap and effective on plastic—less than $5! Otherwise, you could try drawing a larger circle where you want the hole and drilling plenty of smaller holes around it to eventually cut the center out with a knife. Just be cautious; a few smaller holes might actually work just as well for drainage!
If you really won’t buy a bigger bit, try using a utility knife to cut out the shape you need after drilling several smaller holes. Just score it a few times around, and you should be able to punch it out. If you heat a metal stick or something similar, you could also melt your way through. Just know that you'll need to manage the mess!
One trick is to drill lots of 1/8" holes in a circular pattern around where you want the bigger hole, then punch out the center piece. It's like when a cartoon character shoots holes around themselves, and they just drop through! You could also use heat to help mold the plastic, but be careful with that method!
That visual is just perfect! I might have to try that just for the fun of it.
Totally! Just ensure you have some gloves on if you're heating up anything.
Definitely! Plus, having multiple smaller holes can prevent clogging a lot better than a single big one.