So we are transfering our cichlids from a 30 gal to a 55 gal, we are going to put clay pots in it, but want to cut holes in the bottom of the clay pots, any idea what would work best? 
Question...
- Thread starter ballsmcgee1234
- Start date
Use a wet tile saw if you're looking to cut the entire bottom off. Or, use a diamond hole saw if you want a larger hole than the usual drain hole. If these recs are too pricy, use a mason drill bit to bore holes in the bottoms. Bore a sequence of small holes to make one larger hole in a connect-the-dots fashion. Then, use a convex coarse hand file or garnet drum sander to smooth any rough/sharp edges.
craig said:
Thanks. I forgot to mention that the garnet drum sander could be attached to a dremel.
Don't use the ball sanders included with most dremels on the the clay pots. The baked clay is too thick to use these on and the ball sanders tend to shatter. Definitely wear eye protection when you're grinding on these pots. Shards can fly off of weak spots.
FYI. I prefer to use sanding drums and belts designed for metal work. They're usually less expensive and stronger than paper-backed wood grade belts/drums. Most metal-grade belts/drums are nylon-backed or metal-mesh backed and can even be worked wet.
yes were eye protection , oddball is not joking also if you use a wet saw slice the pot long way's but favor one side as not to slice it in half. it will give you a buried look but height may be an issue / between pot and substrate..... good luck