This colander has been with me a long time so when the spot welds failed and the handle came off I wanted to fix it.
![](https://repaircafegosport.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_20230529_105037-1-818x1024.jpg)
![](https://repaircafegosport.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_20230529_105049-1024x990.jpg)
The handle had enough metal to allow a hole to be drilled for a bolt. I bought a small quantity of stainless steel M3 x 8mm bolts and nuts. Stainless steel is important in this case as it will come into contact with food. I also bought some 3mm drill bits suitable for drilling stainless steel.
The first step was to file off the old spot welds and then use a burr tool to make an indentation as a start for the hole. I then drilled the 3mm hole in the handle and basket. An old gardening glove proved useful to prevent the vice from damaging the metal. I then cleaned off the burrs with the file and fitted the bolts.
![](https://repaircafegosport.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_20230529_105717_u-671x1024.jpg)
![](https://repaircafegosport.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_20230529_110120_u-734x1024.jpg)
![](https://repaircafegosport.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_20230529_111959_u-791x1024.jpg)
![](https://repaircafegosport.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_20230529_113658_u-1022x1024.jpg)
![](https://repaircafegosport.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_20230604_152110_u-943x1024.jpg)
A final check was made to ensure there were no sharp edges and now it will go back into service.
![](https://repaircafegosport.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_20230604_152812-scaled.jpg)