 | The Dremel (or rotary tool) is a very handy tool to have in the studio.I use it mainly for etching into tile glazes, but it also sometimes comes in handy for very fine work & for grout removal. It’s not really suitable for heavy work (like a grinder) as you can’t use a lot of pressure when working with it -relying more on speed than “grunt” to cut ceramic. Usual safety precautions apply – safety goggles, respirator & ear muffs if you intend to use it for a while |
 | There is a massive range of accessories available for a Dremel.I tend to use mostly diamond tipped bits (above & bottom right) but you can also get (from right to left) silicone carbide, tungsten carbide & regular sandpaper. All are suitable for use on ceramic, but as mentioned, not on a large scale – they wear out quite quickly & are pretty expensive. |
Using the Dremel to etch into tiles
 | I use a Dremel to etch my signature into our works.Usually I use a ball pont diamond tip for lettering, but I’m not looking for accuracy – I prefer my signature to look “handmade” Notice how I use a marker to set out what I want to etch. Only use gentle pressure to break through the glaze – the tool’s designed to use speed for cutting – not force. |
 | Once you’ve broken through the glaze, it gets much easier to push or pull the tip around – the ceramic cuts much easier than the glaze.It always much easier to work a continuous line rather than start new entry points through the glaze. |
 | Here’s the “B” finished.Providing I’m not using red grout, this would show up nicely after grouting. You can also do the etching after grouting, and simply seal the exposed ceramic if you’re happy with that colour. |
