@bloominholes2fill
Hi Dana,
Great tips. I've had trouble drilling certain ceramics as well. I found a "newer" type of drill bit at the hardware store last year, and it's remarkable how well it penetrates the hardest glazes. I used it to drill drain holes in some ceramic cups after my "conventional" masonry bits (left) simply skated on the surface.
The one you want is the bit on the right. They're less expensive, and the aggressive profile requires far less pressure to get started.
A note to anyone who will be drilling ceramics for the first time; always put a backup such as a block of wood behind the place you are drilling, it will prevent breakage and minimize chipout on the back side. Also, with the long ogive profile of this bit, you can stop drilling when the tip pokes through the pot, and finish the hole from the other side. This can almost eliminate breakout and chipping. A little water will keep things cool.
