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Trash To Treasure

cutting/drilling mirror.....

13 years ago

I've been 'gathering' old mirrors(not fancy framed ones) from thrift stores and am going to try to make a mirrored dresser by cutting pieces to fit on drawers/sides. My question is, do I need a special drill bit to drill the holes back for the handles? Also, how difficult is it to use glass cutting tools~this is something i've never done. TIA

Comments (2)

toomuchglass
13 years ago
Cutting glass is tricky . There's no trick or shortcuts - it just takes practice. Before you start - google "how to cut glass" - there's a zillion sites & alot of videos to guide you through it. When I drill small holes in glass , I use a "Diamond hollow core drill" .. it looks like this (click on link ) I have to say your project isn't really a beginner project - but read up on it , practice on scrap window glass & before you know it , you'll be a whiz at it !

Here is a link that might be useful: diamond drill
kitch_n_kat
13 years ago
If you have problems with the diamond hollow core, check out the "Bosch tile and glass bit" I tried the diamond hollow core and had a difficult time controlling it, then found the Bosch bit...and had success- cut like butter. I needed a 7/8" size and orderded it from Granger...but they sell these same type bits in 1/4" to 3/4" sizes at some tile and big box stores...the bit's head is shaped like an arrow head, sorta.
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Are the mirror tiles just like taking a mirror and breaking it up? Can I save some money by simply cutting up a mirror? The cost of tiles is way out of my budget. KimmyStar Thu, Jan 13, 05 at 6:31 little, I think so...I saw a Trading Spaces episode and Hilde did it. To preserve the mirror part, it's best to seal with mirror sealer though. Check Home Depot, they have it. Also, there is a special adhesive for glass, to preserve the mirror. annsb Thu, Jan 13, 05 at 9:21 I'm trying to remember who it was over at Garden Junk that used to take curbside mirrors and use them to make cool mosaic frames! (Tech or Pokey?) Anyways she said that she used a regular glass cutter to cut them. I have smashed mirrors with a hammer (how many years bad luck ???) but they really tend to splinter and you have to be SOOOOO careful! You do get some good pieces but I think that the glass cutter is the way to go! ann stxmona Thu, Jan 13, 05 at 10:53 Yep - you can cut mirrors with a regular glass cutter...just seal the back so the oil won't penetrate and ruin the mirror. annsb Thu, Jan 13, 05 at 12:47 Mona, what do you seal the back with? Today I just bought myself a pistol grip(?) cutter and was given a free piece of mirror to practice on. ann stxmona Thu, Jan 13, 05 at 14:41 I use Spayway Mirror Edge Sealant...but any mirror edge sealant will work. I have had the same can for long time cuz I don't do too many mirrors.
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