Rock Tumblers | Polymer Clay Beads | Cleanser Method vs River Rocks
Which Bead Sanding, Tumbler Technique Works Best for Your Clay Pieces?
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Recently, there has been some discussion about using Ajax, Comet or Bon Ami cleansers in rock polishers as a tumbling or vibratory substrate for sanding polymer clay beads. So naturally, I just had to try it for myself. Here’s my findings…
I already had some Comet with bleach, so I used that. Filled the tumbler barrel about 3/4 full of unsanded polymer clay beads and added about a 1/4 can of Comet Cleanser (probably around 2/3 cup), with just enough water to make a nice thick sludge.
I tumbled my beads for 4 hours and checked to see how they were coming along. It seemed to be working, but as far as I was concerned, not quite as well as the ‘River Rock Method’ I discuss here: Polishing Polymer Clay Beads in a Lortone Rock Tumbler.
Even after 8 hours of tumbling, the results were just so-so. Plus, in my opinion, there are a few downsides associated with the ‘Cleanser Method’.
First, there is the ongoing cost of using the cleanser. With the river rock, you buy a little bag once. I got mine at the dollar store for $1 and can use them over and over again, indefinitely. Even though the cleanser is cheap at about 25 cents per use, everything adds up over time.
The second thing that kinda bugged me, was the messy cleanup process of the sludge. It gets everywhere, including in the cracks and crevices of your beads. It took me a bunch of extra time just to poke out all the bead holes… something I don’t have to do with the river rock technique.
But the thing I disliked the most about using the cleanser method instead of the river rocks, was the environmental impact. Why dump a 1/4 can of semi toxic cleaner down the drain and into the water system every time you tumble your beads… when all you have to do is rinse them with plain water instead?
Needless to say, I’m sticking with my river rocks, at least until something better comes along. BTW, if you disagree with my opinion about the Cleanser Method for tumbling polymer clay beads, feel free to pipe up. I always love a healthy discussion. Or if you agree, please add your comment too. Or if you are not yet using a rock tumbler at all, what’s holding you back? Let’s talk!
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I’m facinated by this because somewhere in my storage unit is a nearly 30-yr-old rock tumbler. I always knew it would come in handy, which is why I’ve been moving it for more than 20 years. Now all I have to do is find it.
@Barb: How funny that you’ve been moving your tumbler all that time. As you can tell, everyone loves the results they get & the reduced sanding. I’m sure you’ll feel the same once you find yours & put it to work…you’ll be thrilled you kept on storing it all that time! I would love to have one myself — it’s been on my shopping list forever, but “emergency purchases” keep knocking it further down the list. In fact, I’ve actually bought & sorted my pebbles already — I’m just waiting on the tumbler! Yep, I’ve got it backwards, for sure! ;D
Anyway, I hope you find your tumbler soon, and that it works perfectly. Then your hands can get a well-deserved rest from sanding! :D Kat