Which method(s) does everyone use? I tried one of those Fiskars hole-cutting tools from a crafts-type store, but it was hit-or-miss. Actually, 1 hit and 3 misses! So, it's back to the old drawing board.
The problems I encountered with the tools included not being able to hold the darn thing steady, resulting in a weird-looking, part-round part-oval thing.
Any suggestions?
Thanks,
Dan
I did it for a friend one time. First try. I put a paint can on the head, took my utilty knife with a new razor, pressed down lightly on the can and traced it with the razor !! Turn the head upsidedown so it lays flat and make sure the surface is cardboard or something under it. I used a pizza box under it!! Don`t press hard on the razor !!
I happen to have some drafting tools so I use a blade attached to a compass. You'll need a compass that's large enough to keep the blade perpendicular to the head.
Cutting a large hole with a small compass is possible with a steady hand, but I wouldn't recommend it.
As above, it's key to have a sharp blade and to work over a protective surface.
I used to go with the school of cutting a hole in the front head. Back then I'd use an awl to start it and then use a utility knife from there. Then they came out with heads that already have the hole cut for you. Now I've gone back to a head with no hole in it and nothing but felt strips to tame the heads, no pillows or anything like that. I get a much more vintage full sound, and I love it! It does screw with the sound guys though...."man, you've gotta cut a hole in that head! Where am I supposed to put the kick mic?" DOH
I used to go with the school of cutting a hole in the front head. Back then I'd use an awl to start it and then use a utility knife from there. Then they came out with heads that already have the hole cut for you. Now I've gone back to a head with no hole in it and nothing but felt strips to tame the heads, no pillows or anything like that. I get a much more vintage full sound, and I love it! It does screw with the sound guys though...."man, you've gotta cut a hole in that head! Where am I supposed to put the kick mic?" DOH
Mount an internal mic in there and then you don't have to worry or listen to them.. Cool1
There is a guy on youtube who takes a 5" soupe can with no label and heat's it up on the stove red hot. then places a board under the bass head and take's the can with OVEN MITS! on and burn/cut's a perfect hole into it.i have a holz cutter but i will try it just to see
I just spent the 10 bucks on the proper tool. You can get them at many music stores, and GC has them. Most of the websites offer them as well.
Here you have one for 6+shipping.
http://drums-percussion.musiciansfriend.com/product/Bass-Drum-O%20s-Hole-Cutter?sku=443322
[QUOTE=drums2xs;99573]There is a guy on youtube who takes a 5" soupe can with no label and heat's it up on the stove red hot. then places a board under the bass head and take's the can with OVEN MITS! on and burn/cut's a perfect hole into it.i have a holz cutter but i will try it just to see[/QUOTE
I've done that a few times. Works great! Nice edge, round, etc. Get that can hot, tho......
That sounds like a great idea! I got one of those port hole decals you stick inside and outside the hole. Used it for a template then Cut it out with a olfa knife and stuck the decals on. The hot can idea sounds like a fabulous idea though!
