If you've ever been to a woodworking or mechanical workshop, you've probably seen a tool called the Dremel before. In reality, the name refers to the company that invented it, but by now everyone defines "Dremel" as the small rotating electric tool, similar to a screwdriver, equipped with various accessories and which can perform many functions. You can use it on wood, metal, glass, electronic elements, plastics and other materials. Once you've learned the basics and tried using the Dremel for a couple of projects, you'll quickly appreciate this versatile tool.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Learning the Basics
Step 1. Choose the Dremel
The manufacturer produces different types of rotating tools. Do some research to understand which models are currently on sale and find the one that fits your needs. Prices vary and it is therefore particularly important to find the right tool. Here are some of them:
- Fixed or corded bench tools;
- Compact and portable tools or more robust and resistant;
- Long-lasting battery tools;
- Fixed speed models (typically cheaper and easier to use) or variable speed models (more suitable for complex grinding projects, they are more expensive).
Step 2. Read the user manual
The Dremel system consists of a series of drill bits and other accessories, the tool body and comes with a user manual; read it carefully before using the tool for the first time to familiarize yourself with the controls. Locate the knob that controls the speed, the on and off switch and the button to change the tips.
As your model may differ from the previous year, it is very important to read the instructions that come with the tool you purchased
Step 3. Put on the protective gear
Always use work or rubber gloves when handling the Dremel; in this way, you prevent your hands from coming into contact with residues of material and sharp fragments. You should also use safety glasses, especially when cutting, polishing, or molting.
Keep the work area clear; Also, prevent children and other people from approaching while using the tool
Step 4. Experiment with inserting and securing the tips
To engage one, place it in the hole in the end of the tool and pull it out slightly. Tighten the housing latch to make sure the tip does not move. To remove it, press the shaft lock key while turning the spindle; in this way, you should free the tip to be able to replace it.
Experiment with inserting and changing the tip while the tool is switched off and disconnected from the mains
Step 5. Use the correct accessory for the job you need to do
You should choose the tip according to the material you need to treat. The Dremel company makes many tips of numerous materials that can be used on almost any surface. Eg:
- Carving and engraving work: high speed cutting bits, engraving bits, carbide burs, tungsten carbide or diamond wheels;
- Milling work: cutters (straight, angled, semicircular, fluted);
- Small drilling jobs: drill bits (available individually or as a kit).
Step 6. Make sure the tool is turned off before plugging it into the power outlet
Once connected to the power supply, set it to minimum speed and practice switching from one number of revolutions to the other.
- To acquire "sensitivity" of use, try to grab the Dremel in different ways. To perform intricate work, you should hold it like a pencil, while for larger ones you should grab it firmly, wrapping it with all your fingers.
- Use clamps or a vise to clamp the material you are working on.
Step 7. Clean the tool after each use
Remove the tip and put it back in its container. Take some time to dust the body of the Dremel with a cloth after using it; keeping it clean, it can last longer. Read the user manual before disassembling the tool for a more thorough cleaning.
You must use compressed air frequently to clean the Dremel's vents to prevent electrical damage
Part 2 of 3: Cutting with the Dremel
Step 1. Use the Dremel to make small precision cuts and engravings
This tool is light and easy to handle; these features make it ideal for making details and making small cuts. Getting long, even, curved lines isn't easy, as most of the work is done freehand. However, you can manage to make several straight incisions to get the profile you want and then sand it with the appropriate tip.
Do not use the Dremel for long or large incisions, for which a large saw is more suitable
Step 2. Secure the object
Depending on the element or material you need to cut, clamp it with a vice or clamps; do not hold it with your hand.
Step 3. Set the appropriate cutting speed based on the tip and material
If you choose one that is too high or too low, you can ruin the motor, cutter or material you are working on. If you have any doubts, consult the user manual to find out the specifics relating to the particular tool in your possession and the surface to be treated.
- If you need to cut a strong or thick material, go over the cutting line several times.
- If you notice smoke or dark spots, it means that you have chosen an excessive speed; if the engine makes sounds such as slowing down or stopping, you are probably applying too much pressure; in this case, it exerts less force and adjusts the speed.
Step 4. Try to cut the plastic
Insert a flat blade into the Dremel; remember to wear eye and ear protection before starting work. Set a speed between 4 and 8 to have enough power, without running the risk of burning the engine; when finished, sand the rough edges left by the cuts.
- Do not press too hard while cutting, to avoid damaging the tool.
- Depending on the project, it may be useful to draw guidelines for cutting the plastic; in this way it is easier to practice them exactly where you want.
Step 5. Practice cutting metal
Secure the metal cutting wheel and put on ear and eye protection before proceeding. Turn on the Dremel, set a speed between 8 and 10 and make sure the piece of metal is securely locked in the vise. Gently rest the cutting wheel on the surface for a few seconds at a time until you notice the metal starting to cut. Expect the formation of sparks.
Fiberglass-reinforced discs last longer than ceramic discs, which can chip in contact with metal
Part 3 of 3: Grind, Grind and Polish
Step 1. Grind using the Dremel
Attach an abrasive stone to the spindle / shaft. Slide it all the way into the front hole of the tool and tighten the latch. Run the Dremel at low speed to avoid overheating the material you need to process. Keep the abrasive stone on the surface until it is as ground as you like.
- You can use abrasive blades, discs, specific bits for chain saws and abrasive cutters; carbide ones are more effective on metal.
- Use the cylindrical or triangular tips to make round workings. To make an incision on a surface or grind the inside of a corner, use a flat disc; for round ones, choose a triangular or cylindrical tip.
Step 2. Try sanding or sharpening materials with the Dremel
Choose a tip with sandpaper and attach it to the tool. Tighten the screw at the end of the tip and start the tool, setting a speed between 2 and 10. Choose a small number of revolutions per minute if you are grinding or polishing plastic or wooden surfaces. Go for a higher speed for metal. Slide the tip over the material you want to sand or sharpen after securing it in a vise; also make sure that the entire surface of the tip touches the object you are working on.
- Check that the tip is in good condition to prevent it from leaving scoring or marks on the material. It should adhere securely to the drill and should not be worn. Have several sanding tips available so you can quickly replace them.
- For sanding you can use sanding strips, discs, sanding brushes for detailing and finishing and shaping wheels.
Step 3. Switch from rougher to smoother tips
If the project is not very large, start with the tips with the most abrasive power and then move on to the softer ones. This way you can quickly get rid of big scratches and have more control over the process. If you use a soft tip immediately, you may wear it out and take longer.
Check the tip every minute or two to make sure it is not worn or torn. Remember to turn off and unplug the Dremel from power at each inspection
Step 4. Polish metal or plastic
Apply a polishing paste to the surface of the object and insert a spike or cloth disc into the tool. Turn on the drill at a reduced speed (2) and rest the tip on the layer of polishing paste. You should move the tip in circular motions until the material is completely polished; do not set a high speed (do not exceed level 4).
- You can also polish surfaces without using paste, although this allows you to get more brilliant results.
- For polishing and cleaning work, use rubber tips or discs and abrasive brushes. These accessories are perfect for removing old paint from metal furniture or for cleaning tools and grills.
Advice
- Check that any objects you work on are securely fastened. If it's a loose item, clamp it in a vise so it doesn't move.
- Turn on the tool so that it is ready and spin at full speed before it makes contact with the material.
- Remember not to apply excessive pressure when cutting or sanding; let the sandpaper or the blade do all the work.
- The tool is equipped with brushes that should last for 50 or 60 hours of use; if it looks like it is not working well, have it checked by a technician.
