How to Change Dremel Bits and Accessories?

Dremel tools are noted for their versatility. More specifically, they come with a ton of different tool bits that you can use to dramatically change the function of your Dremel tool.

However, changing the Dremel bits out can be trickier than you would imagine. It is even possible, in rare circumstances, to actually damage your Dremel tool, which is obviously something that none of us want to experience. I have some experience in this matter as I have been using Dremel tools for a long time. If you are new to the world of Dremel rotary tools and are unsure of how to change out bits, don’t worry, I have you covered.

How to Take Dremel Bits Off

One of the best things about a Dremel tool is that it has tool-less bit changing. You don’t need anything except the new bit that you plan to put on the tool and a working set of hands.
Please note that Dremel also makes oscillating multi-tool, angle grinders, etc. But for the purpose of this guide we are going to talk about the rotary tools.

Step 1: Disconnecting the Dremel Tool

Now, I know this is going to come off as a sort of “duh” moment for many of you but bear with me. You should always make sure to disconnect the Dremel tool from any power source before removing a bit. If you are using a corded Dremel rotary tool, make sure that you have unplugged it. If you are using one that runs off battery power, make sure to remove any batteries before you start to fiddle around with it.

Like I said, if you are a veteran power tool user, then this is all going to be fairly common-sense stuff. Still, it never hurts to restate the basics, especially when working with electric power tools.

Step 2: Shaft Lock Button

The first thing that you need to do is locate the shaft lock button. This will be located near the front part of the tool.

It can vary in color (on some models it is blue, on some it is silver), but it should be very easy to find as it is the large button right near the front end. Press the button down and hold it, this will loosen the bit.

Step 3: Unscrewing the Metal Collet

At the front of the tool is the metal collet, which helps to keep the bit in place. While keeping the shaft lock button firmly pressed, use your free hand to start slowly unscrewing the collet at the end. It should come off without too much hassle, but depending on the state of your tool, you may need to put in a bit of elbow grease. Even if it seems a bit stubborn at first, keep going at it and eventually it will come loose.

Step 4: Removing the Plastic Housing

At the front of your Dremel tool is the housing cap. This provides an area to grip the tool and it provides some protection for the internal parts of the tool. However, if you want to change the bit on the tool, then you need to remove it. Thankfully, removing it is pretty easy. Much like with the metal collet, you just need to unscrew it with your hands.

Step 5: Removing the Metal Collet

Now that the plastic housing is gone, you can fully slip the metal collet off of the tool. Once the metal collet is off the tool, make sure to put it into the metal collet nut. This is very crucial.

Attaching a Dremel Bit

For attaching your new Dremel bit, you sort of have to work backward, but with a few modifications that I’m going to talk about.

Step 1: Putting the Bit On

Remember in the last section when I talked about putting the metal collet into the metal collet nut? Well, the next step is to attach the bit that you want to put on your Dremel tool onto the end of the collet. Really make sure that it is securely attached.

Step 2: Reattaching the Plastic Housing

Remember how I said that there were some differences when it comes to attaching Dremel bits? Well, one of the major ones is that you do the plastic housing first. Reattach the plastic housing that you unscrewed way back. Also, you are going to have to resist your base instinct to tighten it. You just want to reattach the housing, don’t tighten it just yet, that part comes later.

Step 3: Inserting the Collet Nut

Insert the metal collet nut (along with your new bit) into the shaft of your Dremel rotary tool. Start tightening it by hand. When you feel that the bit is securely into place, press the shaft lock button that I mentioned way back at the very start of the article. Make sure to take note of the fact that I said press, not hold.

Step 4: Tightening the Housing

Alright, now that the bit is back into place, you can tighten the plastic housing. Make sure that is very tight and very secure. Congratulations, you have just changed your Dremel tool’s bit.

Dremel Bits Tips

By now you should have a very idea on replacing the dremel bits easily. Next up I want to talk about a few other important things that you should know.

The first thing I want to address is whether Dremel bits are universal.

Are Dremel Bits Universal?

The answer is yes, they are. This is actually one of the main selling points of the tool, which is that you have access to tons of different attachments, each of which can be swapped out with little hassle.

Are There Different Collet Sizes?

Again, the answer is yes. Collets come in different sizes. To be more specific, you can find metal collets in 4 different sizes, which include 1/8”, 3/32”, 1/16”, and 1/32” sizes.

My Dremel Bit Doesn’t Fit, What Do I Do?

If your Dremel bit doesn’t seem to be fitting, don’t panic, this is a common issue. Thankfully, like all common issues, there is an easy solution.

Simply repeat the steps in the “removing section” until you can see inside the collet nut. Check to see if the collet is pinched inside the collet nut. If it is, that is the cause of your issue. Just quickly fix it and then reassemble the tool as described above.