[Jewelry making - Article 00008] - Re: [Orchid] Tumbler turning jewelry black

[Burlison, Tracy]

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Hello Karen,

    Most people seem to think that the inside of the barrel is the cause
    this black/gray issue on tumbled metal. 

    I've found that if you use distilled water, it will eliminate most
    water-chemistry issues right off the bat. 

    Instead of soap, I use a burnishing compound liquid (sorry, I can't
    remember the name right now). It's like 2 tablespoons per gallon of
    water. 

    After every other tumbling, I'll take the rubber barrel and scrub it
    gently, but firmly with warm, soapy water. Also clean the shot in
    this way as well. 

    If I'm diligent about this, I found that I don't have the gray scum
    issues that I have in the past. 

    Be sure to wear gloves when using the burnishing compound/water. It
    can irritate your skin. 

    On a side note, I found that plastic grids for yarn needlepoint make
    an excellent strainers. I have a plastic colander in which I use a
    round grid that I can use to lift out the jewelry and shot after
    draining the liquid. 

Good luck,
Tracy Burlison
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