I use my drill press to drill the holes after getting everything lined up and cemented. Instead of a drill bit I use a small brad just a hair smaller than my needles. Snip off the head, chuck it up, turn on the press and use a fine tooth file, or emory cloth over a hard backer to true up the point. Cover the drill press table with a clean piece of cardboard to keep your leather clean. I run my press on its slowest speed also.
deac45