Replacing fretboard inlays

[Lucid_Alice]

If it's not too difficult I would like to replace the black dot markers with abalone on my new bolt together strat. Is this doable or in the category of 'forget it or hire it out?'

What is the easiest way to remove the existing dots? What kind of glue is best for the new markers?

[G._Hoffman]

It seems a waste to me, but if you want to do it, then go for it.  I drill the holes with a brad point bit (make damn sure it's the right size).  If I were trying to remove the old ones, I'd probably use a brad point about 1/32 smaller than the dots, drill out the middle (watch that you get it centered), and (very carefully) chip out the rest.  Hopefully that will leave you with a good cavity to inlay in, but if not you can use the next size dot up and drill out with the appropriate bit.  


Gabriel