Can you cut tile with a Dremel Multi Max?

Quick Answer

Yes, you can cut tile with a Dremel Multi Max oscillating power tool. The Dremel Multi Max is designed for making detailed cuts in a variety of materials, including tile. With the right Dremel tile cutting wheel attachment, the Multi Max can make straight, curved, and angled cuts through ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone tiles. It’s an excellent tool for intricate tile cutting jobs.

What is a Dremel Multi Max?

The Dremel Multi Max is a handheld oscillating power tool created by Dremel. It operates with a fast back-and-forth oscillating motion that allows it to cut through various materials.

Some key features of the Dremel Multi Max include:

– Variable speed motor that can reach up to 21,000 oscillations per minute
– Quick-change attachment system for easily swapping out accessories
– Tool-free blade change mechanism for fast accessory changes
– Comfortable ergonomic grip
– Weighs only 3.3 lbs for easy handling

The Multi Max’s compact size and maneuverability make it useful for detailed cutting and grinding work, especially in tight spaces. Its key advantage is its ability to make curved, straight, and angled cuts. This dexterity allows it to cut openings and shapes that other tools like circular saws cannot.

Dremel Multi Max Tile Cutting Applications

With the appropriate tile cutting wheels, the Dremel Multi Max can be used to:

– Cut curved outlines for wall tile or mosaic sheets
– Make straight full cuts through thinner tile
– Cut notches, holes, and detailed shapes in tile for fixtures or accents
– Cut and trim tile around outlets, pipes, and other obstructions
– Cut small tiles and mosaic tiles to size
– Cut porcelain, ceramic, and natural stone tiles
– Make angled miters and bevels on tile edges

So if you need to make special cuts, contours, notches, or holes in tile, the Multi Max is an ideal tool for the job.

Cutting Tile with a Dremel Multi Max Step-by-Step

Here is a step-by-step guide to cutting tile using a Dremel Multi Max:

1. Mark and Score the Tile

Use a pencil or fine marker to draw the line where you want to cut the tile. This gives the oscillating blade something to follow. Then score the cut line with a carbide scoring tool or glass cutter. This helps create a weak spot for the Multi Max blade to follow.

2. Attach a Tile Cutting Wheel

Select a tile cutting wheel designed for the Multi Max and your tile material. Dremel offers diamond wheel attachments for ceramic and porcelain tiles. Make sure the wheel is in good condition without any cracks or missing diamond segments. Attach the wheel by inserting it into the collet and tightening.

3. Adjust Speed Setting

Variable speed is one of the Multi Max’s advantages. For most tile cutting, set the speed between 16,000 to 19,000 oscillations per minute (OPM). Start slower for thicker natural stone tiles. This prevents the blade from overheating.

4. Cut Tile Along Score Line

Hold the Multi Max firmly with both hands. Position the tile cutting wheel on the scored cut line. Cut gradually along the line applying light pressure. Don’t force the tool. Let the oscillating blade do the work.

Make multiple shallow passes if needed on thicker tiles. Plunge cuts straight down can also help sever tiles.

5. Smooth Cut Edges

Once cut, the tile edges can have some roughness. Use a smoothing attachment to refine the edges. Diamond polishing pads and felt wheels can polish the cut edge.

6. Rinse Wheel and Change Accessories

When finished, rinse buildup off the tile cutting wheel. Swap accessories as needed for the next task.

Dremel Attachments for Cutting Tile

The right cutting wheel is essential for successfully using the Multi Max to cut tile. Here are some of the best Dremel tile cutting wheels:

Dremel 565 Diamond Tile Cutting Wheel

– Designed for ceramic and porcelain
– 5/8 inch diameter wheel
– Continuous rim of diamond abrasive
– Cuts straight and curved lines
– For tiles up to 15mm thick

Dremel 568 Diamond Tile Wheel

– Made for ceramic, porcelain, and stone
– Larger 1 1/4 inch wheel
– Cuts through thicker tiles up to 25mm
– Uses interleaved diamond segments

Dremel 663D Diamond Grit Segments Wheel

– Aggressive diamond segments for natural stone
– 5/8 inch diameter wheel
– Cuts granite, marble, slate, and more
– Makes straight and plunge cuts

Dremel EZ Lock Diamond Tile Cutting Wheel

– EZ Lock system for fast wheel changes
– Continuous diamond edge
– Designed for ceramic and porcelain
– Cuts tiles up to 15mm thick

Dremel Multi Max Tile Cutting Tips

Follow these tips when using a Dremel Multi Max for tile cutting:

– Use eye protection – tiles can chip and oscillating wheels throw debris
– Wear a dust mask – cutting tile produces silica dust
– Mark cut lines clearly and score the tile
– Work on a stable surface – clamp tile down if needed
– Make several light passes rather than forcing the tool
– Keep wheel perpendicular to work surface
– Clean wheel and tool air vents regularly
– Change wheel if diamonds are missing or worn down
– Use diamond polishing pads to smooth cut edges
– Cut test pieces first if unfamiliar with the tile or tool

Can You Cut Porcelain Tile with a Dremel?

Yes, the Dremel Multi Max equipped with a diamond wheel is effective at cutting porcelain tiles. Porcelain tile is dense and hard, making it difficult for manual tile cutters and nippers.

The fast oscillating action of the Multi Max enables its diamond cutting wheels to abrade porcelain’s tough surface glaze. The 568 and 663D Dremel wheels are rated for porcelain and can make detailed cuts.

When cutting porcelain, run the Multi Max at slower speeds of 16,000 to 18,000 OPM. Make repeated shallow passes until severed. Letting the tool’s diamonds grind through prevents wheel wear or breakage.

Cutting Thick Tiles with a Dremel Multi Max

The Dremel Multi Max can cut thicker ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone tiles in the 15mm to 25mm range using the proper technique. Here are some tips for cutting thick tiles:

– Use a diamond grit wheel designed for thick tiles like the Dremel 568
– Set tool to lower RPMs around 16,000 OPM or less
– Score the cut line deeply with a carbide scorer
– Make multiple gradual passes keeping the tool steady
– For straight cuts use a tile slider or guide
– Cut halfway through then flip tile and complete cut from other side
– For holes, cut perimeter then plunge multiple times interior to sever
– Allow time for blade and tile to stay cool; don’t force or overload

With patience, even 1 inch thick natural stone tiles can be cut using the Dremel Multi Max. Having extra diamond wheels available helps maintain cutting effectiveness on tough tiles.

Cutting Small Tiles with the Dremel Multi Max

The oscillating blade of the Dremel Multi Max gives it an advantage cutting small mosaic tiles and thin tiles.

Here are some tips for cutting small tiles with a Multi Max:

– Use a continuous edged wheel like the 565 since it can make tight turns
– Adjust speed faster – around 18,000 to 21,000 OPM
– Cut stacked small tiles together for efficiency
– For mosaics, cut whole mesh sheets then separate
– Place tile pieces on a tray or cutting board to contain debris
– Clamp down mosaic sheets to keep them stable while cutting
– Make relief cuts first when removing large sections
– Use a smooth sanding attachment to refine small tile edges

The Multi Max tool’s compact size and sharp oscillating action lets it cut detailed shapes from small tiles that other tile saws can’t.

Cutting Curves and Holes in Tile with a Dremel Multi Max

One of the Dremel Multi Max’s unique abilities is making curved cuts in tile for outlets, fixtures, inlays, and more.

Here are tips for cutting curved shapes and holes with a Multi Max tile cutter:

– Use a wheel with continuous rim diamonds like the 565
– Outline the curved shape with masking tape for the blade to follow
– Score along the line then make repeated cuts just inside it
– Use a tile nibbler on corners and tight spots
– Go slowly on curves; don’t force or overload the tool
– For holes, cut perimeter first then slot from center to edge
– Clean up edges with sanding band or felt polishing wheel

Practice first on tile scraps to get a feel for turning curved cuts before moving to finished pieces. The Multi Max can create neat curved and hole cuts unattainable by other methods.

Cutting Tile Around Obstacles with the Multi Max Oscillator

The Dremel Multi Max is extremely useful for cutting tile in place around obstructions like electrical boxes, plumbing, edges, cabinets, and more.

Its compact size and oscillating action let it cut right up next to obstacles. Here are some tips for in-place tile cutting:

– Plan cutlines to go around obstacles leaving clearance if needed
– Change wheel orientation to properly align with cut
– Use an edge guide for long straight cuts
– Cut partway through tile then finish from the opposite side
– Make relief cuts first when removing large sections of tile
– Cut holes from the center out to remove circular sections
– Use open ended wrenches to remove wheel for internal cuts
– Leave existing grout intact until new tile is set

With care, surrounding areas like walls and fixtures will be protected while cutting tile around them. This allows for professional results.

Can You Use a Dremel Multi Max to Cut Glass Tile?

The Dremel Multi Max should not be used to cut glass tile. It does not have the smooth, splinter-free cutting action necessary for glass. Oscillating Multi Max blades create friction and heat that can crack and shatter glass tile.

A glass wheel glass cutter is the safest method for scoring and snapping glass tiles cleanly. Alternatively, a mini table saw with a diamond glass cutting blade makes smooth cuts.

A Dremel rotary tool with a small diamond wheel could be used to delicately nibble away at glass tiles. However, the risk of cracking the glass is still present. For best results, cut glass tile using specialty glass tools.

Is a Dremel Multi Max Good for Cutting Natural Stone Tiles?

Yes, the Dremel Multi Max equipped with an abrasive diamond grit wheel is effective at cutting many natural stone tiles. Materials like marble, granite, slate, and sandstone can be cut with proper technique.

Some tips for cutting natural stone tile with a Multi Max include:

– Use an aggressive diamond blade like the Dremel 663D
– Cut at slower speeds around 15,000 RPM or below
– Score or wet cut the stone first whenever possible
– Allow time for blade to cut; don’t force the tool
– Make several shallow passes until cut is complete
– Keep blade and stone cool with water to prevent overheating
– Expect more wear on diamond blades cutting stone

With patience, the Dremel Multi Max oscillating tool can make intricate cuts in natural stone tiles that would otherwise require special stone cutting tools.

Conclusion

The Dremel Multi Max oscillating power tool is an excellent option for detailed tile cutting. With the right diamond wheel attached, it can cut straight, curved, and angled lines through ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone tiles. Its compact size and versatile cutting action allow it to make cuts that typical tile saws cannot. With careful control and the proper accessories, the Multi Max effectively cuts tile around obstacles and in tight areas. Follow the usage tips outlined here and the Multi Max can handle most tile cutting tasks for the DIYer or pro.