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I’m in the process of making a number of storage boxes carved from seasoned hardwood (cherry) rings. I’ve done a number already but the next batch I want to be hinged. I’ve worked out a way of producing the hinge without noticeably affecting the grain of the two halves of the ring but this requires drilling an accurate 6mm dia hole approx 250mm long parallel with the edge of the box. I’ve got a suitable drill bit for the job but I’m trying to work out how to produce a jig or something similar to make sure the hole is accurate (The throw on on my drill stand is about 75mm to short to use even with adjustment). The easy way of doing this would be just to hinge the wood at the ends but the challenge of doing it properly is half the attraction of the job. Has anyone got any suggestions how to do this?
I’m also slightly nervous that the bit is going to ‘wander’ (deviate following the grain of the wood). Is there anyway of avoiding this?
Use a slightly bigger diameter tube at from one end / half-way that can then be used as a drill guide?
A lip and spur bit is best, taking your time, in and out to allow it to clear well. The centre point will help it stay on line.
I'd make a jig to sit on the pillar drill so the wood is presented bang on 90 degrees to the bit, accurately mark centre points either side and come in from both ways.
You'd have to finish off with a special long bit and a hand drill but once the square bore has been established on the pillar drill it should hold the line relatively ok if you take your time.
Still, that's quite a distance for a small hole.
Some pictures would be good 🙂
Some pictures would be good
The fun projects are usually fitted in between work, child care etc so don’t hold your breath. They are usually exercises in setting myself a problem and working out a solution (then finding that if I’d asked for advice there was a far easier and quicker way of doing it)