How to Create Nail Holes for String Art: A Comprehensive Guide

When venturing into string art, one common question arises: How do you create nail holes in the wood base? In this blog post, we will explore three different techniques for making nail holes and discuss their advantages and disadvantages. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned string art enthusiast, there’s a method that suits your needs.

I firmly believe that if you want to try making your first or even second string art sign, you don’t need fancy tools. Just a basic set including a hammer and pliers will be enough to get you started.

However, if you have developed a passion for string art and are considering turning it into a business, I would like to share some insights into my own approach. The technique for creating holes for string art signs has evolved alongside our company, GoodStrings, since 2015. We have experimented with three different methods, and I will explain each of them to you.

1. Hammer Hole aka The Classic: Hammering Over the Pattern

The classic technique involves printing out a paper pattern, aligning it on your chosen wood base, and securing it with adhesive. Once the preparation steps are done, you can start hammering nails into the dots marked on the pattern, creating the nail holes along with already hammering in the nails.

• Advantages: No extra tools needed other than a hammer and pliers. Simple and straightforward.
• Disadvantages: Small pieces of paper may get stuck under some nails, requiring tweezers or a sharp paper knife to remove them.

2. Poke Hole aka The Long-Forgotten Tool: The Awl

The awl, a sharp-pointed tool commonly used in leatherwork, can also serve to create nail holes in string art signs. After attaching the pattern to the wood base, you can puncture holes at the pattern’s dots using the awl. These holes should be sufficiently firm to leave noticeable indents in the wood. Once you’ve punctured all the holes, you can remove the paper from the wood base and use the indents as guides for hammering in the nails.

• Advantages: Eliminates paper fragments. Enables pattern reuse for other signs.
• Disadvantages: Requires an additional tool (though not expensive). More time-consuming, especially for intricate designs.

3. Dentist Hole aka The New Age: Drill-Based Techniques

Using a drill to create nail holes offers precision and efficiency (and as the name suggests, it sounds a lot like a visit to the dentist’s office). There are various drill options available, from handheld drills to pen-like drills and tabletop drill presses. Depending on the brand, there are drill bit adapters that allow you to mount thin, small-diameter drill bits onto your handheld drill.

I prefer to use nails with a diameter of 1 or 1.2 millimeters. When using a drill for creating the nail holes, it is crucial to select drill bits with a smaller diameter than your nails. For instance, I use 0.8 mm drill bits for my 1 mm nails and 1 mm drill bits for my 1.2 mm nails.

• Advantages: Precision and efficiency. Reusability of patterns. No paper clutter.
• Disadvantages: Potential for drill bits breaking. Requires investment in a drill and replacement bits. Generates drill dust. Hand fatigue for beginners.

Conclusion

Choosing the right technique for creating nail holes in string art signs depends on your preferences, experience level, and project requirements.

• The classic hammering method is suitable for beginners and those exploring string art casually.
• The awl technique is ideal for individuals who dislike dealing with paper fragments and wish to reuse patterns.
• The drill-based approach offers precision and efficiency, making it suitable for serious string art enthusiasts.

Remember to consider factors such as cost, time investment, and personal comfort when deciding on the technique that works for you.

Final Thoughts

Thank you for taking the time to read this article. Your interest in string art and dedication to exploring different techniques is truly inspiring. At GoodStrings, we are passionate about sharing knowledge and providing valuable insights to support your creative journey.

Keep an eye out for future blog posts where we’ll continue to delve into the wonderful world of string art. Your support means the world to us, and we look forward to providing you with more valuable content in the future.

We’d love your support even more by taking a peek at our Store! Who knows, maybe some of our delightful string art patterns will catch your eye. So swing on by and explore the wonders of our store. We can’t wait to share our string art creations with you!

Happy crafting, and may your string art creations bring joy and beauty to your life!

Warmest regards,
Renate from GoodStrings