Apply masking tape on tile or glass surfaces

Place a small piece of painter's tape or masking tape over the drilling mark on smooth surfaces like tile, glass, or polished stone. The tape provides friction that prevents the bit from skating as it begins to cut. Remove the tape after the hole is started.

Why It Works

Smooth, glazed, or polished surfaces have almost zero friction for a spinning drill bit. Tape adds a textured layer that lets the bit grip and start cutting before it can wander.

Tips

• Use multiple layers of tape on very hard, slippery surfaces like porcelain tile
• Mark your drilling point on top of the tape so you can see it clearly
• Combine with very slow drill speed and firm pressure for tile and glass
• For glass, use a spear-point glass/tile bit — standard twist bits won't cut it regardless of tape