Flat bottom for candle holder

[Rainman]

I have a pattern that was given to me for a pair of votive candle holders within a simple scroll sawn design. The two inch and a half recessed circles that hold the candles have a perfectly smooth bottom. I can't figure out how this is done. I have a Forstner bit the right size but it leaves a point in the center. Can anyone tell me how to complete this with a smooth bottom...no jokes...

[Travis]

I can only think of a Forstner bit, but you're right, it will leave a point in the center. The point is necessary, otherwise the bit will wander while drilling. The only other way I can think of is using a lathe.

[Rainman]

Thanks Travis, as I thought about it, the pattern is two dimensional so I cannot see if the bottom was concave from being sanded to remove the point. That may be the way it is done.

[Messman]

What you can do, if you have 2 forster bits of the same size is take one, preferably the older one of the 2 and cut/grind the tip off so it is smooth. Then start the hole with the unmodified forstner bit, after drilling the majority of the hole out, change to the modified bit. The hole that you just drilled will keep the modified bit straight. But you have to be willing to sacrafice a bit or pick up a cheap one from harbor freight or someplace like them so it won't hurt so bad when you modify the bit. No I have not done this, but it was in a wood working mag as an editors suggestion.

[Rainman]

Outstanding suggestion Chris!!

[Travis]

I"d suggest clamping your workpiece to the drill press before trying this. Even with the starter hole, the bit might wander or grab the workpiece and yank it out of your hand.

[Clayton717]

you could use a router. but I like Chris's idea.

[spirithorse]

I agree with Clayton that a router should be used. Modifying tools shouldn't be necessary and could cause injury.

God Bless! Spirithorse

[lwsjc]

Why does the bottom need to be perfectly smooth? With the candle in place, it won't be seen anyway.

 

Larry

[Rainman]

While watching a woodworking show on TV I had an epiphany! The best way to make the hole is to use a router with a guide bushing. Just make a template with the size of the hole ( just a fraction larger to accommodate the edge of the bushing) and use the router to plough out the hole to the depth necessary.

 

Thanks for the suggestions. Sometimes the solution just happens...

[Jim Finn]

What about using a hole saw, going all the way through, and then gluing on a bottom or a plug? Router wold be a good way to go also.

[Tdub4ever]

I know this is a fairly old post, but, I use like a 3/4" socket with a modified extension to fit my drill, turn the socket upside down and cut me a circle of the sticky sand paper and stick it to the flat of the socket. Works great Don

[amazingkevin]

Great ideas make me think of others