How To Cut A Circle In A Tile?

Before any task, having the right tool is very important. A hole saw is a suitable tool for cutting jobs most of the time. It cuts a perfect round hole in the tiles. The accuracy and precision of the hole saw are also high.

But the problem arises when you have to cut larger holes. For large holes, a hole saw isn’t the right choice.
Hole saws have flexibility with wide sizes of bits. You can use bits of different sizes. If you don’t already have a set, you need not worry. They can be individually bought too.

As stated earlier, the size of the hole determines the right tool. Before cutting, you should know the circumference of the circle required. For cutting holes which are larger than 4 inches in size, a hole saw is not a suitable choice. This is because you will face problems finding the right sized saw. Thus, for cutting larger holes, you can use an angle grinder.

After deciding the best tool for cutting, it is time for you to get ready for the next step. If you are using a hole saw, you don’t need to bother much in this step. But you need to pay attention if you are using a Dremel or angle grinders.

You have to trace the circular design on the backside of the tile with a marker or grease pencil. You are free to use any circle template or the French curve for this purpose. You can place plastic over the design to protect the design.

Now since you have traced the hole on the tile, you are ready to start the cutting process. A necessary caution is to protect yourself before starting step 3. You should ensure that you are working safely. You must wear gloves, safety goggles and also use a hearing aid if you are working with an angle grinder. Cutting tiles can produce a lot of noise.

After tracing the circular design and wearing the safety kit, you are ready to cut the tile.
We will break this step into three parts according to the tool you are using.

Cutting Tiles Using A Hole Saw
Cutting with a hole saw is an easy task. You have to follow the steps listed below:
1. You have to soak the tile to be cut in cold water for some hours. This softens the tile. It also enables the tile to adjust with the heat that is produced during this process.
2. You need to apply some cooling oil to the bit of hole saw.
3. At first, you have to set the speed of the drill at low measurement.
4. Now you have to put the drill over the tile in such a way that the bit of hole saw lies in the middle of the circle.
5. Then you have to start cutting with the drill. Start the cutting with a slow steep at first. Then slowly increase the speed until you reach an optimum level.
6. You should hold the tile with your other hand while cutting.
The tile can get a bit hot, sometimes due to the heat produced. In that case, apply cooling oil or some water to it.

Cutting Tile With An Angle Grinder
1. An angle grinder is perfect for cutting large holes. The steps for cutting are as follows:
2. First of all, you have to clamp the tile to be cut against the workbench firmly. Clamping firmly is essential so that it wouldn’t move. This will help you to focus on cutting and not holding the tile.
3. Now, turn on the angle grinder and get ready to make the first cut on the tile. Begin with the position that seems most comfortable to start with.
4. While cutting, apply very little pressure. The blades of the grinder will do the work for you here.
5. The cutting is not completed in a single pass. It needs several passes. So go slow and be patient. The slow but steady can do the job correctly here. All you have to do it take your time, do not rush, and in no time, you will get a beautifully carved tile.

Cutting Circle Using A Dremel
A Dremel is a highly recommended tool for cutting circles in tile. They are the best for ceramic and porcelain ones. It is effortless to use.
For cutting, you have to follow the following steps-
1. At first, you have to install a diamond bit in your Dremel for cutting. The #562 diamond tool is a preferable one.
2. Then you have to turn on the Dremel and wait till it kicks starts.
3. Now plunge it slowly on the traced circular area on the tile.
4. Make sure that has plunged perfectly over the traced area. Then apply pressure with both of your hands.
5. While putting with Dremel, move it gently along the circular tracings to cut the circle.

 If you feel the finishing of the tile is not perfect, you can use a tile file. It will help you round out the imperfections in the tile.

So now you have the result of your hard work- A circular tile.
But you surely have a lot of mess left in the workplace. Cleaning the place is essential, so the ceramic dust doesn’t hurt you in any way. You can use a damp rag to remove the dust produced in this process.