drilling holes in plastic tub

I got a 2'x4' gardening tray for a upgrade, but the holes weren't pre-drilled. I have my drill and spade bit but thought I'd ask for some tips before drilling through the tub, as it is quite expensive and I don't want to mess it up on my first try. I have heard that warming the plastic with a hair dryer helps the cut be a bit easier to make. Any other tips before I drill through this thing?

Thanks a ton

I've drilled a bunch of trays and I have always used a step bit on clod plastic and never had any problems.

I do it with a spade bit a little from each side with firm steady pressure and let the bit do the work till it pops through.....

While a spade bit can be used carefully to drill plastic, it is nottie advised tool for the job. As mentioned, a step bit is appropriate. They aren't cheap, but neither is a new tray. Mine has more than paid for itself in less frustration and more accuracy on hole size. If you only need it for one hole, buy at harbor freight as they have chinese ones for less dollars.

I bar clamp a board to the back side to guide the bit if I have to use a spade. Nice and easy...

Medi4U said:

I bar clamp a board to the back side to guide the bit if I have to use a spade. Nice and easy...

Click to expand...

+rep for saving someone money. Well unless they have to buy a bar clamp

I just use a standard wood drill bit for drilling plastic/perspex, just use light pressure and as OITW says, let the bit do the work. Works better if you have a 'soft start' drill with variable speed on the trigger so you can start slow to avoid cracking the plastic.