Control Panel Overlay - Apply first, then drill?

[newmantjn]

I have a Stargate CP that I am ordering a Streetfigher overlay for.  I re-designed it a little and I have a paper mock up cut out and taped on.  It looks fine.

I have filled all the holes and primed the CP, so at this point, I have a blank slate to work with.

I have ordered a 1-1/8" Forstner Bit from MLCS.  I have a drill press to use it in.

My thought was to apply the CPO when it comes and then drill the holes through both the CPO and the wood at the same time, using the Forstner bits, which are known for their sharp edges etc.  This would ensure a perfect line up.

Thoughts?  Anybody ever do this?

[yotsuya]

I wouldn't. I've seen overlays get ripped like that.

[Slippyblade]

I'm with Yots on this.  If you need to, lay the CPO on the CP and use a tiny drill to create some pilot holes in the centers of your button locations.  Then drill the wood bare.  Attach the CPO and use a razor to cut out the holes.

[yotsuya]

I'm with Yots on this.  If you need to, lay the CPO on the CP and use a tiny drill to create some pilot holes in the centers of your button locations.  Then drill the wood bare.  Attach the CPO and use a razor to cut out the holes.

^^^^ listen to my homeboy Slippyblade

[Louis Tully]

.

[shponglefan]

I'm with Yots on this.  If you need to, lay the CPO on the CP and use a tiny drill to create some pilot holes in the centers of your button locations.  Then drill the wood bare.  Attach the CPO and use a razor to cut out the holes.

+1

[yotsuya]

Actually, this is the thread where I saw it happen, but unfortunately the photos aren't available anymore. But read the text to see what happened.

[EMDB]

I first drilled the holes (using the drill template I ordered seperately), than applied the overlay (used a flashlight to light from below to position the overlay) and finale used a router to cut out the holes in the overlay:

[newmantjn]

Thanks for the information guys.  Drill first it is.

@EMDB - Did you use a laminate trimmer for that?

[Benzinbruder]

Check out is build thread over here:
http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,130690.msg1425323.html#msg1425323

[newmantjn]

Very nice.  Thanks for the link.