Posts Tagged ‘plastic pellets’

Polish. After determining the best polish to use, put in tumbler with stones; 8 pounds of rocks to 1/2 cup polish. Most of the time you will need to add plastic pellets for filler in all steps. Be sure that you use unused pellets for the polish step. In some cases, add 1 cup of soap flakes for 8 pounds of rocks and 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar. These amounts can be altered based on the level of the tumbler. All ingredients, stones, and filler should fill the tumbler at least 1/2 to 2/3 full. Polish should take 3 to 4 days.

Fill the tumbler approximately 2/3 full of stones. Add abrasive. 80 Grit is a popular choice. Stones that are very rough may require a coarser grit. 8 to 10 pounds of rock will take 3/4 to 1 cup of grit. You can add 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda to cut down on gas buildup. Filler can be added (plastic pellets) to help carry the abrasive between the stones. Add water, enough to cover the rocks. Start the tumbler. Check progress after 24 hours and then every 2 to 3 days after that. The first grind should take between 6 and 8 days. After you are satisfied with the first grind, wash and dry the stones completely before beginning the next step. All rough grit must be removed from the stones.