If your goal is to craft wind chimes or unique beads from shells, you'll need to drill holes in them. However, using an electric drill on fragile mother-of-pearl can be problematic and even dangerous — you risk damaging both yourself and the shell. We offer you a simple and safe method to achieve this.

Part 1

Step 1. Choose Your Shell

Step 1

Start by selecting a shell, keeping several important characteristics in mind:

  • Thickness: Thin shells are more likely to break, while thick ones are harder and take longer to work with.
  • Size: Larger shells are easier to work with, but choose a size that fits your project.
  • Layering: Some shells have layers that may chip off.

Step 2. Determine the Location for the Hole

Step 2

Decide where the hole will be located. Ensure that there is enough space on the shell for a hole of the desired diameter. Keep in mind: the closer the hole is to the edge, the higher the chance that the shell may crack.

Step 3. Mark the Spot

Step 3

Step 4. Create an Indentation

Step 4

Using scissors or a pocket knife, carefully scratch an indentation in the shell that is 1-2.5 mm deep. Be cautious while working.

Step 5. Insert the Tool

Step 5

Using the sharp end of your tool, gently insert it into the indentation you made.

Step 6. Twist the Tool

Step 6

Slowly rotate the tool while pressing it into the shell. Continue twisting until you break through to the other side of the shell. After that, keep twisting for another 5 seconds, then stop.

Step 7. Clean the Hole

Step 7

Blow into the hole to remove any dust that has formed. Check if the hole is large enough; if not, carefully enlarge it by rotating the sharp tool.

Step 8. Finish the Process

Step 8

Rinse the shell under water, then thoroughly clean your tools and the work surface.