Getting a new rock tumbler can be a big decision, but it can be a lot of fun seeing how your stones turn out. These are the most important things to consider before getting a rock tumbler. Be sure you’re making the right call when it comes to your rocks.
What Machine To Get
Getting the right tumbler can be a big deal. There are so many options out there, and it’s hard to know which one is best. Consider how many stones you have to tumble and how serious you are about this new hobby when it comes time to invest. If you only have a handful of stones, a small and inexpensive tumbler may be ideal. However, if you’ve been saving up stones for a while and want to take this hobby seriously, a larger tumbler could be what you need.
Consider the Types of Stones
While some stones are hard enough to come to a beautiful shine in a rock tumbler, soft stones can sometimes crumble under the pressure. If you have softer stones like Petoskey stones, hand polishing may be the right choice for you.
Not All Stones are the Same
Not all stones are the same, and that’s something you’ll need to consider as you get into tumbling. Stones vary in hardness, so do a bit of research on your stones. Stones of a similar hardness are great to tumble together, but if you tumble hard and soft stones together, you could end up with different results. Research your stones before you decide to tumble.
You’ve Got To Have Grit
Some small hobby tumblers come with grit in a set up kit but, with most larger tumblers, you’ll have to get the tumbling media you need separately. Getting tumbling media is one of the most important things to consider before getting a rock tumbler. Read up on which tumbling media is best for your specific stones and stock up on the grit of your choice.
Disposing of Slurry
After you tumble your stones, there will be a lot of slurry left in your tumbler. Slurry is the stuff that breaks off your stones and media as they tumble, combined with the water and fluids you use. Slurry can be very abrasive, so you can’t make a habit of throwing it down the drain or in the trash. Learn how to properly dispose of slurry before you finish your first set of stones.
