Getting There and To Tumbling

MyNewHobby
driving up their electric bill

Member since January 2009
Posts: 2,282

Getting There and To Tumbling Jan 31, 2009 18:32:44 GMT -5

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Post by MyNewHobby on Jan 31, 2009 18:32:44 GMT -5

Now that I have finally got the basic necessities, I can now start to ID some of the awesome rocks I have gotten ... and start a second tumble.

Here is my setup so far ... I went to Harbor yesterday and got some goodies.

My bucket O rocks neighbor gave me this butcher block with a mounted vise. The block itself is only 23 3/4" x 16" ... which makes this perfect for my living room.

And ... as you can see ... the little toy(s) I got yesterday fit beautifully. All I have to do now is start to ID and learn to crack the rocks properly and start to learn how to grind rocks I am not sure I want to start a tumble on just yet.

Once again .... all input and advice are greatly welcomed!

You can stare at a rock for hours and never see the same thing twice.

drjo
fully equipped rock polisher

Honduran Opal & DIY Nut

Member since May 2008
Posts: 1,581

Getting There and To Tumbling Jan 31, 2009 19:23:32 GMT -5

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Post by drjo on Jan 31, 2009 19:23:32 GMT -5

Whahoo!

I like toys.

Have you tried to press a rock against the soft wheel (gray one) on the grinder yet? just curious how well it works.

They have some diamond bits and small cutters too...

www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=31501

www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=32351

www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=40547

Dr Joe

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Last Edit: Jan 31, 2009 19:28:14 GMT -5 by drjo

Those Who Can...Do

Those Who Can't...Ask My Advice

catskillrocks
fully equipped rock polisher

Member since July 2008
Posts: 1,270

Getting There and To Tumbling Jan 31, 2009 22:31:56 GMT -5

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Post by catskillrocks on Jan 31, 2009 22:31:56 GMT -5

Hey Julie, glad to see your enthusiasm! I haven't ever ground rocks, have just started tumbling for now. I may be out of place here, but I would rather be wrong than not express a possible concern. I'm thinking that when you dry grind rocks you will get an awful lot of rock dust going all over. I hope that you have an appropriate dust mask (a basic one is not safe). Also you mentioned a set-up in your living room; just concerned about the possible mess. Anyhow, I'm really glad that you are so enjoying the hobby. I hope that I've not overstepped here.
Don

Don

llana2go
driving up their electric bill

Oh, give me a home where the buffalo roam!

Member since January 2009
Posts: 2,223

Getting There and To Tumbling Feb 1, 2009 7:13:32 GMT -5

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Post by llana2go on Feb 1, 2009 7:13:32 GMT -5

I agree about the mask. You don't want to be breathing in all that rock dust. Best thing to do is keep the rocks wet by dipping them in a bowl of water as you grind. Just be careful and put the water far enough away from the grinder that if it should spill, you won't electrocute yourself.

I remember when I first came on board, somebody gave some instructions on how to safely rig up this kind of grinder with a water system, but I don't remember who. I've slept since then!

docone31, maybe?

I know how it is when you don't have any room for all the toys. I live in an RV and have about 400 sq feet!

It's definitely the pits trying to squeeze everything in. I have rocks, beading, polymer clay and woodworking stuff crammed in every available space.
I at least have a storage shed now and plan on turning it into a rock workspace this spring. Gotta insulate it first though. Oh, I do envy those that have lottsa space!

llana

Never go rockhounding in a pair of pants with an elastic waistband! You'll lose your pants!

Post by MyNewHobby on Jan 31, 2009 18:32:44 GMT -5

Post by drjo on Jan 31, 2009 19:23:32 GMT -5

Post by catskillrocks on Jan 31, 2009 22:31:56 GMT -5

Post by llana2go on Feb 1, 2009 7:13:32 GMT -5

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