The main thing you want to avoid when drilling bamboo is cracking the pole.
For smaller poles, soaking it before drilling is suitable. This is especially useful when making items such as flutes.
You can also wrap the area where you’ll be drilling the pole in clear plastic tape, drill through the tape then remove the tape.
For nailing bamboo, the best advice is DON’T. Because fiber is running the same way, bamboo has a tendency to split.
However, if you want to make a awning or other project that requires nailing bamboo to a wood surface you can do this by drilling first, then nailing: drill a hole through the pole and run the nail through the pole into the wood beneath.
