I've tried all these methods, Laser cut holes which works great but leaves a char on the inside of the hole, I know how to get around that but also takes a lot out of the laser cutting tons of holes. Chisel thru 2 layers of 7to 8oz vegs lots of pounding and trying to get the chisel out is a pain Dremel with a 1/16 bit thats the ticket. 7 to 8 oz your using a thick thread so fills the holes and I think looks great. But like everyone says to each his own. If you like it and it works for you go for it.