Stainless steel

**Coco** · 27-11-2009, 09:53 AM

Can I drill it and pierce it with regular jewellery tools or do I need special laser....thingies?

**mizgeorge** · 27-11-2009, 09:59 AM

I use different sawblades for steel - the same that are used for platinum - cookies 972 060P for a 2/0

**Coco** · 27-11-2009, 10:16 AM

Interesting! Thanks George!

**HannahJewelleryDesigns** · 27-11-2009, 10:26 AM

If you can help it dont use the same tools for steel as you use for your silver- little flakes of steel can get embedded into the surface of the tool and next time you use it on silver- big deep scratches! I speak from past experience!

**Coco** · 27-11-2009, 10:57 AM

Thank's for the tip Hannah! I'll remember that.....hopefully!

**caroleallen** · 27-11-2009, 07:44 PM

I find stainless steel really difficult to drill.

**mizgeorge** · 27-11-2009, 07:46 PM

You and me both Carole! I generally end up 'borrowing' some of OH's super expensive titanium bits and his big, big drill

**Coco** · 27-11-2009, 08:25 PM

How expensive? And how big?

**WitchfordSilver** · 27-11-2009, 09:51 PM

I've found that using a saw to cut stainless steel takes to long and blades don't last long, best way is to grind them. well away from the bench!

Have not tried drilling yet but I expect that it won't be easy.

**mizgeorge** · 27-11-2009, 10:22 PM

Originally Posted by Coco

How expensive? And how big?

I've been told off - apparently they're cobalt, not titanium, and a the tiny ones (1mm) are about a pound each, but much more expensive as they get bigger.

As for the drill, it's a big Makita.

Sawing (even with the good blades) is heavy going, but I've managed OK for jump rings up to 14ga.