Question Corner: Does Drilling Lamination Dull Paper Drill Bits?

Q:            “I’m using your drill bits to cut through laminated sheets. Is there a different bit that I should be using? I recently cut 5000 cards and about half-way through the job the bit was so dull that it no longer cut!”

A:   Laminated sheets wreak havoc on paper drill bits, but there are a couple of simple steps that you can take to extend the life of your drill bit:

1. Sharpen your bits often – a simple drill bit sharpener like the LilBit will go a long way to extending the life of your bits.
2. Purchase Teflon-coated bits – Teflon coated paper drill bits will reduce heat and friction, which cause your bits to dull quickly. We offer Teflon-coating for all of our paper drill bits (additional cost: $7).
3. Lubricate your bits – use DrillEase wax to lubricate your drill bits – like Teflon-coating, proper lubrication will reduce heat and friction substantially.

Whether you’re drilling paper or plastic, using these easy precautionary steps will greatly extend the life of your drill bits!