Introduction:
This method most closely resembles the traditional ant and termite construction of the Didj. Utilizing a suitable drill bit and a drill or boring machine with enough power to drill or bore it is possible to penetrate a hole through the entire length of the selected wooden or other solid core material. The bits which I have worked with are Forstner, Spade Bit and (a new entry) WoodEater by Magna of Elizabethtown, KY 42701. All of these bits are 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 in bits. The WoodEater in a 3/8 drill with 3 extensions (12 in. long x 3 = 36 in.) will bore a 5 foot length of wood stock in less that 30 Min.
Technique:
Select and cut to length a suitable stock. Survey the straightness of the stock noting any curves, knots, limbs or other irregularities. If there exists any pronounced curves, carefully plan whether you can manage the boring. Reject this method in favor of the French Bread (see later method) if the stock is so curved that you are not able to bore the necessary hole. If the stock is suitable, secure into a stationary position by what ever mean are necessary. I have used a "Saw Buck" (two "X" shaped frames which hold the wood in the their forks), a standard woodworker's vice, and large "C" clamps or "Bar" clamps attaching the wood stock to a rail on my deck. Attach two string layout lines; one above the stock and one along the side. These lines must extend well beyond both ends of the piece to be drilled in order to provide reference lines to assist in keeping the drill or boring motor at the correct angles. The angles will change in order to deal with any bends or curves. If you have selected a fairly straight trunk or branch your line from start to finish will be almost straight. Drill from one end and then the other. With enough extensions it is possible to drill from only one end but controlling more than two extension (24 in,) is a real challenge. It is helpful to turn the stock in order to compensate for the natural tendency of the bit to drift downward because of gravity.
!! Stop frequently to assess the angle and direction of your drill in order to avoid boring through the sides.
@ Do not become attached to any piece of wood until you have completed the hole because a number of things can go wrong.
When and if you complete the bore, the interior shaping of the bell and the exterior shaping can be done with rasp, or other similar tools. Again care must be exercised to prevent cutting into the interior chamber. Sanding, decorating and finishing are the next steps.
I hope these thoughts prove helpful. If anyone has any questions, I can be reached at bonsaii@aol.com
El Rayo
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