PKNH-002 Metal Hole Punch Set (4 pieces). The main function of this tool set is to "perfectly core out circular holes" in both hand-built and wheel-thrown pottery. Its usage and benefits are as follows:
Correct Usage
- Press and Twist: When in use, the potter will position the tube perpendicular to the surface of the piece, then gently press down while "lightly twisting the handle back and forth." The sharp, angled tip of the tube will easily cut through the clay to form a perfect circle without distorting or collapsing the surrounding clay structure.
- Removing Clay Scraps: When the tool is pulled out, the cored clay scraps will remain inside the metal tube. The potter can easily use a small stick to push the clay scraps out from the base of the tube through the tip, ready for the next hole.
These four sizes of hole-punching tools are used to create a variety of pieces, such as drainage holes for plant pots, openings for lamp wiring, tea strainer holes, openwork patterns, and holes for stringing cords/watch straps.
Advantages of Different Sizes
- Extra Small Size Ideal for tea strainer holes, jewelry/pendulum stringing holes, or small ventilation holes.
- Medium Size Suitable for punching switch openings, small lamp cord holes, or creating openwork patterns on vases.
- Largest Size Best for punching drainage holes at the bottom of plant pots or openings for standard light bulb sockets.
Optimal Punching Time: Workpieces should be punched during the "leather-hard" stage, similar to carving, because the clay will be strong enough not to collapse under pressure, but not too dry to crack or create excessive dust.