PRODUCT TIP: Using the Tumbler

Using a tumbler can cut down on the finishing time for metal jewelry. This Lortone tumbler is a rotary-type tumbler. The barrel is filled with a tumbling media (in this case stainless steel shot), detergent (blue Dawn dishwashing liquid), the jewelry to be tumbled and water. It is then placed on the motorized platform and rotates around and around. This action burnishes the metal to work-harden and shine. The ratios and amounts are discussed in the step-by-step below.

The tumbler can be used for a variety of metals including fine silver, sterling silver, brass, copper gold-filled and PMC.

Tips for using the tumbler:

• When you receive your tumbler, wipe out the barrel of tumbler with warm water and mild soap. This initial cleaning of the barrel will prevent any black residue from the rubber adhering to the tumbled jewelry.
• Keep the shot clean. After repeated use, the shot will pick up a residue from the tumbled metals and in turn blacken the jewelry that is being tumbled. Two methods work to clean the shot. Put the shot in a clean, empty barrel. Pour in Coca Cola (yes, the soda) to cover the shot. Put the lid on the tumbler and let it run for an hour. Pour the shot into a fine mesh colander and rinse well. Also a solution of baking soda and water used in the same way will also clean the shot.
• Pieces that contain stones or beads may be put in the tumbler if the stones are hard. Soft stones like pearls, coral, turquoise and other similar types may be damaged during the tumbling process.
• Be careful about which soap is used in the tumbler. Commercial dish washing liquids that contain anti-bacterial or “oxy” cleaning agents will harm the rubber barrel. It is best to use a mild detergent like regular Dawn (the blue kind) or Ivory.
• Clean and dry the shot and barrel after each use. Do not reuse solution after tumbling. The clean, dry shot can be stored in the barrel when not in use.

Purchase the Lortone Tumbler, 3 Pound Capacity »
Purchase the Stainless Steel Shot »

Selecting the Shot The stainless steel shot is a mix of shapes. The variety makes the burnishing action more effective during tumbling. Opening the Lid The metal lid is meant to fit tightly and can be difficult to remove. To save your fingers and fingernails, use the washer that comes with the barrel to pry the lid off. Insert the washer between the lid and the barrel and give it a ¼ turn. The lid should pop up for easy removal. Filling the Tumbler Do not overfill the barrel with shot. 2lbs will be sufficient. If you are loading the tumbler with a lot of pieces, make sure that the weight of the barrel does not exceed 3 lbs total. Adding Jewelry to the Tumbler You can load the tumbler with a variety of pieces. We recommend not mixing metals during the tumbling process. For example if you are tumbling copper and silver some of the copper that is removed in tumbling may adhere to the silver and form a fine coating on top. If this does occur, the copper can be removed with a steel brush or steel wool. Rinse the shot and change the water and the silver can be returned to the tumbler to finish polishing. Filling with Water Add water to the tumbler so that it just covers the shot and jewelry. Too much water will impede the tumbling process. Adding Detergent Add a couple of drops of a detergent to the barrel. Commercial dish washing liquids that contain anti-bacterial or “oxy” cleaning agents will harm the rubber barrel. It is best to use a mild detergent like regular Dawn (the blue kind) or Ivory. Sealing the Barrel To create a water-tight seal on the barrel, dip your finger in the water and run it around the inside edge of the barrel. A water-tight seal is very important as you don’t want any water leaking out of the barrel while tumbling. Placing the Inner Lid Insert the inner lid into the tumbler. Make sure that it is sealed completely and settled in the barrel. Again, if this lid is not on tight the barrel will leak. Tightening the Lid Place the outer lid over the barrel with the washer and the plastic screw for the lid. Do not over-tighten the screw as you will bend the lid. Placing the Tumbler on the Motor There is a notch along the edge of the black screw that sits in the metal bracket attached to the motor. Place the barrel on the motor so that the screw sits in the notch. This is to ensure that the barrel stays put while the tumbler is on. Plug in the tumbler and the barrel will begin to rotate. Pieces should be tumbled for a minimum of 1 hour to burnish and shine. After tumbling drain and rinse the jewelry pieces and shot. Be careful not to let the shot fall down the drain. Allow the shot to dry on paper towels or an old towel. Wipe out the interior of the barrel and store dried shot inside.