Top 8 Beginner Rock Tumbling Mistakes

Поділитися
Вставка
  • Опубліковано 9 бер 2023
  • Are you having trouble with your rock tumbler? Trying to figure out why your rocks aren't getting shiny? I have about a dozen years of experience helping people learn to tumble rocks and troubleshooting their problems. Let me help you figure out what you might be doing wrong. There might even be a tip or two in this list for more experienced tumblers.
    - MERCH -
    michigan-rocks.myspreadshop.com
    - KINGSLEY NORTH -
    Kingsley North is a lapidary store in Michigan's U.P. They make a great cab machine and sell many other brands too. They have a huge selection rough rock, tumblers, grit, jewelry supplies etc. at good prices. I buy most of my coarse grit from here in 45 lb. bags. It's the best price I have found. If you buy using the following link, I make a small commission.
    bit.ly/3MerxdI
    This is the cabbing machine I use:
    kingsleynorth.com/kingsley-no...
    - THE ROCK SHED -
    I buy a lot of lapidary supplies from The Rock Shed. I don't make money from your purchases there, but they have good prices and good service. This is where I buy my finer grits and polish.
    rockshed.com
    - AMAZON STOREFRONT -
    I also have an Amazon storefront. This is where you can find other products you may have seen in my videos. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. It doesn't cost you extra.
    www.amazon.com/shop/michiganrocks
    - FACEBOOK -
    / michiganrocksrob
    - INSTAGRAM -
    / michiganrocksrob
    - SUBSCRIBE -
    On Michigan Rocks you can join me on relaxing rock hunts in picturesque Michigan. I'll also show you how to polish rocks and teach you other lapidary techniques. New videos are posted every Friday and some Tuesdays. Subscribe now so you don't miss any upcoming videos!
    ua-cam.com/users/MichiganRock...
  • Навчання та стиль

КОМЕНТАРІ • 734

  • @user-dx6in7lu4q
    @user-dx6in7lu4q 11 місяців тому +26

    This was a good over all review I'll share it with the Rock Club members who are new and trying to choose where to begin. We're pretty much on the same page with just those couple difference in how I load and the amt. of grit. And nice this is all about using the Rotary tumbler all the way. The only thing I can add for anyone else reading is; IF you do have a failure and it happens; you can start over and while your rock will be smaller you can achieve a good result in the end. Thanks again. A great resource.

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  11 місяців тому +4

      That's a good tip, Margie. I wish I would have remembered to include that because it's a question I get from time to time. People seem to think that they can mess up their rocks beyond repair, but that would be extremely difficult to do.

    • @user-dx6in7lu4q
      @user-dx6in7lu4q 11 місяців тому

      I hope to have some pix to share to prove that coming up.

    • @rainigilmore3723
      @rainigilmore3723 11 місяців тому

      Thank you for the video (and GO BLUE!)

    • @kamilgrochla6192
      @kamilgrochla6192 10 місяців тому

      ​@@MichiganRocksDid you have long time ago jeleweery makers in poland

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  10 місяців тому +1

      @@kamilgrochla6192 I don't know anyone personally from Poland. I have never been to Poland either.

  • @kimberleysmith5876
    @kimberleysmith5876 Рік тому +60

    Is anyone going to mention the cool stop motion rock number transitions? That was a lot of work! Great video!

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  Рік тому +5

      Lots of people mentioned that. I'm glad you enjoyed them.

  • @linden4372
    @linden4372 Рік тому +32

    Oh no, not your wife’s toothbrush! 😂 you’re a great teacher, helping us and having some fun. Nice editing, by the way!

  • @OntarioRob
    @OntarioRob Рік тому +80

    You were kind enough to give me a lengthy & very detailed plan to follow for the entire process. I do everything you've just talked about in this video, so I know I'm doing it right. I did, however, start my 1st stage with 46/70 grit & made my 2nd stage 60/90 grit. It's an extra step, but I'm really pleased with the results. This is definitely not the hobby for someone who's impatient. Another thing I try to do is keep all the rocks in the barrel the same hardness or at least close to it. The best thing I've done is ignore the tumbling instructions & asked you for the advice I needed to start my hobby. Thanks again, Rob. You've made tumbling very enjoyable for me

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  Рік тому +4

      I finish most of my batches with a vibratory tumbler and I don't find that it's all that important to tumble rocks of the same hardness. I have a feeling that it's more important with rotary tumblers.
      What advantage do you see by adding a 60/90 step after 46/70? I've never heard on anyone doing that.

    • @mitchellmajor8984
      @mitchellmajor8984 Рік тому

      I need help in tumble polishing BLACK CORAL from Maui. Have a Hawaii State license to harvest the coral.
      I need direction.
      Thank you
      Mitchell Major

    • @OntarioRob
      @OntarioRob Рік тому +2

      @Michigan Rocks I used to polish metal bumpers for a living & once in a while I'd come across a bumper that needs a very coarse grit belt. I tried moving down to a finer grit belt & it removed all the coarse grit lines from the previous belt. Once the blemish is out, it took forever to buff the grit lines out, so it's that theory I'm using. So far, I'm getting great results. Tumbling rocks of the same hardness just makes it easier to move the majority of the batch to the next step. Keep in mind that I'm just using my common sense. If you're tumbling rocks that are a 7 on the hardness scale, they're all done around the same time. I've rarely set some aside & added rocks. My 1st step lasts a minimum of 2 week. If there's the slightest imperfection, the 2nd step of 60/90 takes care of that for me. The 60/90 step runs for about 7 days & the results are great, but I don't recommend starting out with smaller rocks or throwing in some softer rocks. The first 2 stages really grind them down to a very smooth feel. No blemishes, cracks, spawls or the like either. The first 2 steps do an incredible job

    • @irishguyjg_2ndchancerecovery
      @irishguyjg_2ndchancerecovery Рік тому +1

      Ditto. Absolutely. Well said BFBR

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  Рік тому +1

      I haven't tumbled coral, except fossilized coral, so I can't help you out. Sorry.

  • @BonesFPV
    @BonesFPV 7 місяців тому +9

    3:18 I appreciate your humour. Today my first rock tumbler arrived. I've wanted to try this for like 40+ years. My twin barrel has now been going around in circles for about 6 hours with various local rocks collected from Port Macquarie beaches. Thanks for all your videos - I feel well prepared.

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  7 місяців тому +1

      Good luck, I hope they turn out great!

    • @charlieinabox1164
      @charlieinabox1164 Місяць тому

      How did they turn out?

    • @BonesFPV
      @BonesFPV Місяць тому

      @@charlieinabox1164 dull, but got a second batch almost ready! :)

  • @largent45
    @largent45 Рік тому +31

    That was a great tutorial. All of your tutorials are really great with hands on and real life examples. Thanks Rob!

  • @betojdesigns
    @betojdesigns Рік тому +19

    Rob, you are the King of tumbling. Hands down. I point anyone who expresses interest in tumbling in your direction. Love the clever different color numbers in the rocks before each tip. That must have taken a bit of time to prepare 😊.

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  Рік тому +3

      Yeah, those animations took a couple days. I was happy with how they turned out though, so it was worth the effort.

  • @emmikate
    @emmikate 6 місяців тому +2

    I love how this is a video that I just rewatch every month or so

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  6 місяців тому

      I love that too. Watch all you want!

  • @lisapfeiffer4053
    @lisapfeiffer4053 Рік тому +10

    Bravo! Your tutorial on rock tumbling is the perfect complement to all those instructions that don't seem to care what your stones look like when the cycle is finished. Thanks for your care and attention to what really matters.

  • @mikek4443
    @mikek4443 Рік тому +3

    One thing you have taught me is the need for patience, thank you for all your advice and help

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  Рік тому

      Yep, that's a big thing. It gets easier with every batch.

  • @seattledoug1342
    @seattledoug1342 Рік тому +7

    3:20 "I use my wife's toothbrush" Very funny.

  • @markattardo
    @markattardo Рік тому +7

    Rob knows tumbling! These instructions will get you awesome results👍👍
    The chapter markers must have taken a good long while to make!! Great stuff Rob

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  Рік тому +1

      Yeah, that part took forever, but it's kind of fun to do.

  • @morganwright6388
    @morganwright6388 Рік тому +5

    Along your point about choosing the right rocks to tumble, one thing I eventually learned was that regardless of the type of rock (chert, granite, quartz, etc..), the shape and characteristics of the rock matters as well. One thing I had to learn was that if a rock has a big hole or crack in it, well then that rock is going to end up being pretty small by the time I moved it to the second stage.
    Thanks for the great info. Your videos are where I go to if I ever run into a problem or need more information. Thanks for the help!

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  Рік тому +1

      That's very true. Depending on the crack, sometimes I'll break the rock along the crack to eliminate it.

    • @morganwright6388
      @morganwright6388 Рік тому

      @@MichiganRocks I take a lot of my rocks to the tile saw before putting them in the tumbler. It saves a lot of time on the first stage.

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  Рік тому +1

      I don't do much pre-grinding, but I will take very nice rocks to the saw or grinder after a few weeks in the tumbler if they need a little extra attention.

  • @susanjane4784
    @susanjane4784 Рік тому +3

    Love your numbering animations! And the sound effects! Nice to have something different and cute.

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  Рік тому

      I feel like this sort of video can get a bit dull, so I tried to spice it up.

  • @bornofashes
    @bornofashes Рік тому +3

    Those stop-motion transitions were really clever. Great job!

  • @wwright8119
    @wwright8119 7 місяців тому +2

    You know Rob, you really put it all together well in this video. The RTH has greatly appreciated your advice over the years and your instructional document (as well as Chuck's advice) was foundational for my personal understanding of how to properly tumble rocks, saving me hundreds of hours and dollars in the process. Thank you!

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  7 місяців тому

      Thanks, I spent a long time planning this one and a long time making those darn animations.

  • @salishseaquest7952
    @salishseaquest7952 Рік тому +8

    Very informative, Rob. You did a great job -- kept it interesting and fun.

  • @georgestickles9594
    @georgestickles9594 Рік тому +8

    Thanks Rob great info, I find myself guilty of not running long enough in the first stage, that being said I've had pretty good luck getting a good shine ( been running mostly quartz and chert so far, but have done a few others) thanks again for all the tips only been tumbling since September on fifth batch now.

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  Рік тому +1

      The more you tumble, the easier it is to be patient. If you really like those perfect rocks, patience is what it takes. But if you don't mind a few flaws, you can sure save some time.

  • @suzettecalleja3122
    @suzettecalleja3122 Рік тому +1

    Nancy, Rob stole your toothbrush to clean his rocks.
    Love the stop action. A lot of work went into making the video, along with the great sound effects.
    Very through explanation, can tell you were a teacher.

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  Рік тому +2

      Hey! Shhhhh... What are you doing? You're going to get me in trouble!

  • @toddbrewer683
    @toddbrewer683 4 місяці тому +1

    Video of Excellence! Thank you, now a permanent reference in my library. Sometimes a refresher of the basics is ALWAYS great to have on hand.

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  4 місяці тому

      Glad you liked it, Todd. I have a lot of tumbling videos here, so you might find something else you like.

  • @soul_adventurist
    @soul_adventurist Рік тому +15

    That was an excellent summary of pretty much every tumbling video you’ve made! And the editing was phenomenal ❤
    I took your advice and bought the good grit. Tomorrow, I will take my first batch out of it’s 2nd week of Stage 1. I’m excited to see the results after the 1st week turned out so well.
    I really do appreciate the knowledge and humor you bring into your videos.
    Again, thank you so much for all you do for the rockhounding community ❤

    • @soul_adventurist
      @soul_adventurist Рік тому +2

      I forgot to add that I really like the clear end on the barrel. I imagined the turning looked that way, but the visual certainly shows the importance of spacing. Thanks!

    • @irishguyjg_2ndchancerecovery
      @irishguyjg_2ndchancerecovery Рік тому +2

      Absolutely. I agree wholeheartedly

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  Рік тому +2

      You're welcome. Don't expect as much change in the second week. The first week knocks the sharp edges off and they show the most change. After that, it's a little more slow going.

    • @soul_adventurist
      @soul_adventurist Рік тому

      @@MichiganRocks just took them out of tumbler. The one I’m most interested in has revealed a lot more cracks. I’m considering not putting it back in. I’m afraid they will just get deeper. All the others looking good though.

  • @lorettamartinez2144
    @lorettamartinez2144 8 місяців тому +1

    Omg I have gotten all my supplies from The Rock Shed and since then all my rocks have polished. Omg it took me a year before I got a nice polish ! Thank you so so much for all your wonderful advice! Yay!!!!!! I did it !!! 🎉

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  8 місяців тому +2

      I continue to be surprised at how many people are using low quality polish, or what I consider to be pre-polish. It's a shame because good polish doesn't even cost more. I'm glad you've got it figured out.

    • @lorettamartinez2144
      @lorettamartinez2144 8 місяців тому

      @@MichiganRocks Well as a beginner in tumbling rocks I didn’t know much of anything. I started with what came with my tumbler. Realizing it wasn’t working I started researching UA-cam tutorials. Which brought me to your videos. After researching I learned . It’s not that I wanted cheap stuff. I also didn’t research enough before I started …I don’t know about anyone else . But that is my reasoning?

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  8 місяців тому +2

      @@lorettamartinez2144 A lot of people are in the same situation. They just don't know any better. It's a shame that so much poor quality polish is for sale.

  • @tulazaz
    @tulazaz 20 днів тому

    Now that I’m ready to set up my new and first rock tumbler, I knew I could find the perfect how-to video by you to get me started. Thanks Rob!
    Some of the rocks I’m tumbling are Potomac Marble, which is what the pillars in statuary hall of the Capitol building are made of. It isn’t actually marble, but a very hard conglomerate with a grey or red substrate. The creek I find them in, behind my local grocery, also runs along an old abandoned mine of it. The cut and polished specimens I’ve seen are beautiful, but have never seen tumbled pieces. Can’t wait to see the end results! So glad I watched you first!

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  19 днів тому

      Hopefully it tumbles well. Conglomerates are made of different minerals, so they can sometimes be tricky.

  • @LucyGirlCavapoo
    @LucyGirlCavapoo Рік тому +3

    The toothbrush comment made me laugh out loud. 😂

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  Рік тому +1

      Hopefully you didn't have a mouth full of Vernors or something.

  • @garyfritzges6710
    @garyfritzges6710 Рік тому +1

    Very informative and helpful thank you!

  • @tammychriscoe2726
    @tammychriscoe2726 Рік тому

    This was so helpful. Thank you very much for sharing your experiences.

  • @Algorhythmz
    @Algorhythmz Рік тому +5

    You make a great teacher, Rob. I enjoyed this video very much and I learned quite a bit. I'm about half way down the rabbit hole, I still have to decide if I want to purchase or go the DIY route as I oft prefer. I'm looking forward to tumbling this spring! Thank you as always for sharing this great content :)

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  Рік тому +1

      I'm glad you liked it. I'm not sure if you can save too much money making your own tumbler, but it might give you more satisfaction to know you made it yourself.

  • @theresabarwell9831
    @theresabarwell9831 Рік тому +1

    Thank you so much for this information. I have my first batch of rocks in the tumbler and couldn't figure out why I couldn't get them nice and shiny. I have made several mistakes that I can now correct for the next batch. I'm hooked! :)

  • @trevorallen2274
    @trevorallen2274 Рік тому +1

    Another great tutorial. Some of the finest if not the finest on the internet. I don't think you fully appreciate the number of people you have helped and will help in the future.

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  Рік тому +1

      I have an idea. I read these comments and have had a lot of people thank me. It's always nice when people take the time to do that.

  • @obieobrien5883
    @obieobrien5883 Рік тому +1

    Thank you Rob! Your tutorial worked beautifully! I haven’t had a bad bunch since..!

  • @agatebeauties
    @agatebeauties Рік тому +1

    Absolutely fantastic video! So much great advice from experience. The best thing I ever did for tumbling was keeping my agates in the first stage for at least 2 weeks. Thanks for sharing!

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  Рік тому +1

      Try going longer. Check them every week and pull out the perfectly smooth ones. Start the second stage when you have enough perfect ones to fill the barrel. If you like them after two weeks, you'll love them after two months.

  • @jennyromano9449
    @jennyromano9449 Рік тому +1

    Thanks for the advice. I’ve tumbled rocks about 3 times now and made plenty of mistakes. So, having that background also helps with understanding the importance of your advice and also you are exceptional at tumbling rocks, so I’m going to go along with all your advice! I hope to give my elementary students some tumbled rocks by the end of the school year as presents, so I better get to it!

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  Рік тому

      Yep, that's not much time when it comes to rock tumbling. Good luck!

  • @MrRockkollector
    @MrRockkollector Рік тому +1

    Thanks Rob! This is a much-needed video. I can't count the number of people on Facebook who ask the same questions about why they are not getting good tumbling results. I agree with all of the points that you make in your video. I'll probably start linking to it when people (usually newbies) ask the typical questions about the problems they are having.

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  Рік тому

      That's why I made this video. I get a lot of very vague questions from beginners who just say something like, "I just took my first batch out of polish and they're not shiny. What did I do wrong?" As you know, that requires a lot of questions in return just to start making a guess. Often, I spend time asking follow up questions, and then never even get a response. From now on, I'll just point people here.

  • @1949lwd
    @1949lwd Рік тому +1

    This is a very helpful video. Saw 2 mistakes I have been making! Thanks for your great work!

  • @kellyhollingsworth6100
    @kellyhollingsworth6100 Рік тому +2

    The only way you are going to get good results tumbling granite is leave it in the ground or landscape rock. Just plan on using it in your fish tank, pond, or fountain where the water can hide all the undercutting. Have a great weekend, see you in the next one, happy hounding.

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  Рік тому +1

      We're on the same page with granite. Beautiful rock. Horrible for tumbling.

  • @hubrigant
    @hubrigant Рік тому +12

    I'm actually about to start recovering from following the manufacturer's instructions. The tiny tumbler my wife gave me for Christmas came with a small bag of rocks to start with. By the time the 2nd stage was finished, about half of the original volume was gone and there was nothing in the manual about adding something for cushioning. As a result, by the time I got through the 3rd phase most of the rocks had chipped and some had broken into smaller chunks with sharp edges. The ceramic filler I bought just arrived so I'll be re-running from 2nd through the polish soon.

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  Рік тому +3

      I bought a National Geographic tumbler just to do a video about it. I did one video where I followed the directions and had results about like what you described. Then I ran another batch doing it my way and they turned out pretty good. Your next batch should be better.

    • @OntarioRob
      @OntarioRob Рік тому +5

      Can I make a recommendation ? Run your new ceramic media by itself with some 60/90 grit just to smooth out the sharper edges before you add it to your stage 2,3 or 4th stages. Makes a big difference. Good luck

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  Рік тому +4

      Good suggestion. Thanks for adding it.

    • @OntarioRob
      @OntarioRob Рік тому +1

      @@MichiganRocksAnything to help the viewers

    • @sabrinahunter6673
      @sabrinahunter6673 11 місяців тому

      I am 3 days in tumbling my very first batch and i did use ceramic media in the first stage. I like to experiment so i will see how they turn out.

  • @donnalantz7981
    @donnalantz7981 Рік тому +2

    All awesome tips for the best polish. And I also but my grits from the same place as you. You do amazing work .

  • @dgrove02bakeredu
    @dgrove02bakeredu Рік тому +1

    Thanks Rob, you’re the best!!!

  • @coyotewacker
    @coyotewacker Рік тому +1

    Thank you ,I’ve been tumbling for quite a while now an it’s always fun an informative to watch you ,, plus you have great spots to find rocks !

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  Рік тому +1

      Yep, your name is memorable, so I remember you commenting for awhile.

  • @colotzin9
    @colotzin9 Рік тому +1

    Awesome Guide, as always.
    I enjoyed the part of filling the barrel differently and using a transparent lid to show how it works.

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  Рік тому +1

      I got that idea from rocktumbler.com. It's fun to see what's going on inside.

  • @Ghodzilla
    @Ghodzilla Рік тому +1

    love your channel Rob, I'm just getting into this hobby but have boxes and boxes of rocks collected over the years

  • @zhmw
    @zhmw Рік тому

    I learned the hard way, the first stage takes more than a week. So glad I found your youtube channel, your tips are very helpful.

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  Рік тому

      I think a lot of people learn that way. Hopefully my videos can save some people that frustration.

  • @berjo77
    @berjo77 Рік тому +1

    Good evening! It’s been a while since I’ve stopped by, but I think of all the things I’ve learned and worked out with your advice. Great drill down to the basics, and I’ve only missed (or messed) a few things this past year, as I’ve followed your advice. On point! Thanks for the work, love that demure plaque back there on your wall.

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  Рік тому

      Did you catch my unboxing video of the plaque? That video was much more fun than this one.

  • @Sharla1213
    @Sharla1213 8 місяців тому

    Thank you! I feel prepared to dive in!

  • @dianelandry4643
    @dianelandry4643 Рік тому

    Thank you, great video! I've been tumbling for a few years with mixed results. This really helped. Hope to get all great results from now on 😊

  • @elvis_ismyking530
    @elvis_ismyking530 Рік тому +1

    Learned some new stuff. Thank you!

  • @irishguyjg_2ndchancerecovery
    @irishguyjg_2ndchancerecovery Рік тому +2

    I couldn't tell you how much this has helped me and my other channel recovery Rocks MN, dude, Rob, thanks man!! I've reamped basically everything I had been doing, I even stopped a few things due to the tips & tricks you've shared with us. I've shared this video as well. Thank u sir

  • @LadyYoop
    @LadyYoop Рік тому +1

    I don't watch a bunch of these type, but I do pass them on to folks that do this....and they LOVE them!

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  Рік тому +1

      If you don't have a tumbler, there's not much of a reason to watch these. I make the beach ones for you, Donna.

    • @LadyYoop
      @LadyYoop Рік тому +1

      @@MichiganRocks And those I love...esp U.P. here! But seriously...I do pass these to folks that LOVE them!

  • @MsGryphon123
    @MsGryphon123 Рік тому +1

    This was a great tutorial! Thank you for all of your excellent content. It's a real joy to watch your channel. Thanks!

  • @IvanLopez-zh3xz
    @IvanLopez-zh3xz Рік тому +1

    Great episode for all of us!!!!!! Killing it man. Thank you!

  • @briancoulomb
    @briancoulomb Рік тому

    Excellent video, thank you!

  • @abcdef-kq2zg
    @abcdef-kq2zg Рік тому

    Thank you. I have never tumbled stones, but may invest in one soon. This video has helped me.

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  Рік тому

      I have videos showing the whole process too.

  • @wyomingadventures
    @wyomingadventures Рік тому +3

    Great to know about the aluminum oxide. I have it in 1000. But now I'm going to try 8,000. I did learn from you that stages take longer than the book that came with my tumbler. I do a mixture of sizes. I've only tumbled 6 to 7 hardness so far. I haven't tried Obsidian because I'm not sure about trying it yet. Thanks Rob you're videos are very helpful!

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  Рік тому

      Obsidian is really difficult to tumble in a rotary tumbler from what I've heard. You need to run it for really long periods of time in the final stages. I have a video on how to do it in a rotary tumbler. That's actually pretty easy.

  • @aroradreem
    @aroradreem 3 місяці тому

    Thank you!! You've cleared up some mysteries for me as I work on my first couple of batches. This is a huge help. I had no clue what I was doing wrong.

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  3 місяці тому

      I get so many vague questions from people trying to figure out what they were doing wrong, that I made this video. It's been really helpful for me too so I don't have to ask a bunch of questions trying to figure out where the problem is.

  • @dancrites453
    @dancrites453 Рік тому +3

    Great video! Very educational & entertaining. Keep sending people your way on UA-cam. Keep up the good work. Think Spring...

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  Рік тому

      It snowed here today which made it a little harder to think spring. I had been thinking spring pretty steady before that.

  • @sandmaker
    @sandmaker Рік тому

    Good tips and they were all good. Thanks for sharing.

  • @adamderdzikowski1571
    @adamderdzikowski1571 Рік тому +1

    Great educational material. Thanks a lot.

  • @mollyv8b705
    @mollyv8b705 6 місяців тому

    GREAT VIDEO!!! Thank you so much!

  • @BlackHills68
    @BlackHills68 9 місяців тому

    Enjoyed this tutorial. Thank You Rob! I like your straight forward approach with a little fun inserted here and there.

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  9 місяців тому

      Thanks, I get very vague questions from people asking why their rocks didn't get shiny. It's really hard to answer those without a lot of information, so I made this with the most common problems I see.

  • @ruthchapman3847
    @ruthchapman3847 Рік тому

    Excellent video, learned some new things that I will be changing to. Thank you

  • @Nikkisavage100
    @Nikkisavage100 Рік тому +1

    Hi Rob, you are the king of rocks !

  • @UnmaskingTheMachine
    @UnmaskingTheMachine 9 місяців тому

    I've been doing one to two months for my first stage then two weeks each for the final stages which I'm very pleased with. Thank you sir

  • @stuartmacfarlane4059
    @stuartmacfarlane4059 10 місяців тому

    Great videos - many thanks for all your advice.

  • @staceymcmahan5016
    @staceymcmahan5016 6 місяців тому

    Wonderful tutorial! I havent bought a tumbler yet and like learning the do's and don't's before jumping in. Thank you

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  6 місяців тому +1

      That's exactly what I did and I had pretty good results right off the bat.

  • @sashakys
    @sashakys Рік тому +1

    great advice! thank you

  • @glennwright8355
    @glennwright8355 Рік тому +1

    I love these transitions so much like something straight out of the show Chowder :)

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  Рік тому +1

      I've never heard of Chowder, but it must be awesome!

    • @glennwright8355
      @glennwright8355 Рік тому

      @@MichiganRocks it’s a cartoon from the early 2000s about cooking food, the main character an apprentice cook named Chowder a cat person kid :)

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  Рік тому

      Oh, thanks.

  • @anotherluckydad
    @anotherluckydad Рік тому

    Great show! Thanks for sharing your genius.

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  Рік тому

      I thing genius is going a bit too far. Experience is probably a better term.

  • @reddog-ex4dx
    @reddog-ex4dx Рік тому +1

    Thanks Rob!

  • @joshuaglaude1549
    @joshuaglaude1549 Рік тому +1

    Taking the kids to our first rock/crystal/fossil show or expo. Whatever you want to call it. Don't have a tumbler but they love that kind of stuff.

  • @Parry635
    @Parry635 Рік тому

    Again, bravo. Great video. Learned something else.

  • @lisamills-wv6nc
    @lisamills-wv6nc 11 місяців тому

    My kids bought me a rock tumbler for my birthday! Thank you so much for the tumbling tutorial videos! I feel it's going to make my 1st batch a better success! 😊

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  11 місяців тому +1

      Happy birthday!

    • @lisamills-wv6nc
      @lisamills-wv6nc 11 місяців тому

      @@MichiganRocks Thanks! It was on the 4th of July! 😊

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  11 місяців тому +1

      @@lisamills-wv6nc Better than Christmas.

  • @lindaprisk2254
    @lindaprisk2254 Рік тому

    Thank you Ole Wise One...I really needed this. I was really getting frustrated and wanting to reach out to you but your tips will head me in the right direction. Thank You!!!!!!!

  • @kirstencorby8465
    @kirstencorby8465 Рік тому

    Wow, this is a very thorough video. TFS!

  • @nhrockaholic6038
    @nhrockaholic6038 Рік тому

    You’re awesome! Thanks

  • @tiffanymcgillie7114
    @tiffanymcgillie7114 Рік тому +1

    Great tips! And I liked the stop-motion countdown very much!

  • @janehelbert7551
    @janehelbert7551 Рік тому +1

    Great tips!

  • @therandomman4441
    @therandomman4441 Рік тому +1

    In your last post I made a mention of the polish stage and I'm putting together a video. 1 tbl spn of polish and a half cup water. I can say that the results are amazing.

  • @nighredemption
    @nighredemption Рік тому +1

    I wouldn't have learned how to tumble if it weren't for Rob. I was lost and frustrated when I bought my first tumbler.

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  Рік тому +1

      I get a lot of questions from people who are frustrated or disappointed with their first attempt. They tend to ask vague questions like, "I just pulled my rocks out of the tumbler and they're not shiny. What did I do wrong?" Now I can point them toward this video. It's my mission to un-frustrate people

  • @recoveryrocksMN
    @recoveryrocksMN Рік тому +6

    Absolutely patience pays off!! I have 4 going now and I wish I had 8 lol, I have to say, your content is very helpful 4 us beginners. Great tips! Thanks Rob

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  Рік тому +1

      Yep, I know the feeling of always wanting just one more tumbler. My big homemade tumbler finally has me satisfied.

    • @recoveryrocksMN
      @recoveryrocksMN Рік тому +1

      @@MichiganRocks I saw that and I ran the idea by my son, he's in a pre engineering school here in the Twin Cities and he has an idea 💡 along with mine and I think when I get back from my motorcycle trip to Milwaukee in end of May/June, we are going to build one, similar to your design, but we've got a trick up our sleeve so to speak, can't wait to compare and I really can't wait to tumble more than say 1lb at a time lol, it really isn't much in the grand scheme of things, I have red solo.cups full of flat cut agates and other rocks, just waiting to be tumbled, it's a shame, but I believe itll.always be like that, we will always have an abundance of rock ratio, n e ways, dont want to ramble on too long, appreciate the heck out of the tips and tricks Rob. Thank you sir

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  Рік тому +1

      Let me know when you get that tumbler built. I can't wait to see your addition.

    • @recoveryrocksMN
      @recoveryrocksMN Рік тому

      @@MichiganRocks absolutely, it's in the works. I will be proud to show you when we get it done. It'll be a few months, we got projects going in every area of our lives and we do martial arts as well, busy. I had a small haul today while out rockhounding, it was in the 20's and very windy, but I've been able to figure out a way of finding rocks in the winter, I honestly don't see anyone else oit doing what I do too much in my area, it's basically all to myself and whoever I bring out, I found alot of smalls today and a cooler full of cuttable rocks. I really need to find a scab machine, I think that's my next project maybe purchase one, but how does one buy one of those on a budget lol, used one are close to $700. If u have any ideas on that topic, a scab machine, I wouldn't necessarily need a large scale tumbler if I could polish and shape these stones with a scab... got the juices flowing now, all I can think about

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  Рік тому +1

      I don't have a great suggestion for you. They're expensive machines. You could think about getting a flat lap instead. I don't like them as much for making cabs, but if you're just polishing rocks, it would be a good alternative. It's "cab" by the way. That's short for "cabochon", one of those domed rocks used in jewelry.
      Do you watch Agate Dad? He's in Minnesota too. He has a flat lap and made lots of videos using it to polish Lake Superior agates before he got a cab machine. He also has a discount code for buying one.

  • @MrNadda
    @MrNadda Рік тому +1

    Great tutorial video! You make rocktumbling fun and informative. It is a thrill to watch your videos. I've learned so much about tumbling rocks.
    I'm excited to watch your upcoming rockhound videos for the season, so manny cool rocks at the beach in Michigan 🙂

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  Рік тому

      I'm excited to get out of the house and onto the beach!

  • @paulpopa8468
    @paulpopa8468 Рік тому

    Thanks for another great video with some excellent tips.

  • @michelleelle4622
    @michelleelle4622 29 днів тому

    Just recently started my tumbling journey. Your video has helped me a lot! Thank you for this video!!!!

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  29 днів тому +1

      You’re welcome! I’m glad to help.

    • @michelleelle4622
      @michelleelle4622 29 днів тому

      @@MichiganRocks Yep, I ended up starting my first batch over again. I “should” be fairly close to my first batch being done… should be 🤣

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  28 днів тому

      @@michelleelle4622 Good luck!

  • @danderth
    @danderth Рік тому

    Great lesson, and that opening gave me a good chuckle.

  • @phu303
    @phu303 9 місяців тому

    Thank you for this. Might soon buy a tumbler and start rocking.

  • @graniterunner5129
    @graniterunner5129 Рік тому +1

    Thanks a lot for the detailed informations you always tell us...love you americans for this, here in europe all and everthing on rock hunting and tumbling and so on is a deeply hidden secret...oh man!!!😀

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  Рік тому +2

      I think there are some secret keepers here too, I'm just not one of them.

  • @virginiarocks
    @virginiarocks Рік тому

    Very clever and well thought out numbering ~ very cool! Excellent video and explanations. Thank you.

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  Рік тому +1

      Thanks. I spent as much time on the numbers as the rest of the video, probably more.

    • @virginiarocks
      @virginiarocks Рік тому

      @@MichiganRocks great job. Very impressive.

  • @pauliewallnuts4741
    @pauliewallnuts4741 Рік тому

    Just finished a batch after almost 2 months. Using a nat geo style tumbler. Used your method and your grit. Success 🙌

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  Рік тому

      Woo-hoo! Was it worth the wait? Did you have fun along the way?

    • @pauliewallnuts4741
      @pauliewallnuts4741 Рік тому

      @@MichiganRocks great time. And it really tests patience 😅

  • @markpelzer725
    @markpelzer725 10 місяців тому

    Just learning. Your awesome sir. Thank you. Probably saved me years of mistakes.

  • @AgateAriel
    @AgateAriel Рік тому +1

    Great video Rob! I loved the rock overlays!!

  • @coffeebeforemascara
    @coffeebeforemascara Рік тому

    UA-camr award 👏 🏆 for coolest chapter transition animations!

  • @lauripaas
    @lauripaas Рік тому +1

    Thanks for the tips! One more thing I haven't seen mentioned anywhere is that once the ceramic media wears smaller and smaller, it will start breaking and will have sharp edges, which will ruin the polishing stage. So it's better to take the really small ceramic pieces out between stages, before they get too small.

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  Рік тому

      I have never really had a problem with that. I do throw out the ones that slip through my colander, especially if they're broken, but I'm sure there are plenty of broken ones in there. I have no idea why they don't scratch up my rocks, but they don't.

  • @rogeliocprinci
    @rogeliocprinci Рік тому

    I just subscribed and my first tumbler with my first rocks are rolling and rolling now ...thanks 😎

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  Рік тому

      That's awesome, I hope they turn out great. But if they don't, you know where to come for some troubleshooting help.

  • @jimSP500
    @jimSP500 Рік тому +1

    Great info Rob.

  • @tomstadnyk546
    @tomstadnyk546 Рік тому

    Thanks for this post!! Great advice from your previous videos, in trimmed down form. Loved the animations.

  • @lindah6258
    @lindah6258 Рік тому +1

    I can tell there went a lot of effort in this video, great work!

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  Рік тому

      Yeah, I spent a few minutes on this one, thanks for noticing.

  • @cashcat4lyfe822
    @cashcat4lyfe822 Рік тому +1

    I love the clear covers while the Tumbler is moving. I just finished a batch with 1200 aluminum oxide, I think it looks great but now I think I'm going to order some 2 micron size to get it really shiny. Your videos are very informative, thank you so much

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  Рік тому

      You're welcome!

    • @cashcat4lyfe822
      @cashcat4lyfe822 Рік тому

      @@MichiganRocks actually I have a question, what book would you recommend on learning about types of beach rocks around lake Huron and lake Ontario. I looked on Google and Amazon and there's so many different options, I was just wondering if you had a favorite

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  Рік тому +1

      If you go to my Amazon storefront, which you can find in the description of any of my videos, I have several books listed. I really like all of them. They're not all about identification of Great Lakes rocks, but I think you'll figure out which ones are.

  • @staceysakkinen1270
    @staceysakkinen1270 Рік тому +1

    Thank you, 😊

  • @traceywakefield3883
    @traceywakefield3883 Рік тому

    Wow. This was very informative. I have been trying to make sea glass that actually looks like I got it from a beach. At this stage you can tell it is manufactured. You have given me some things to think about. Nice.

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  Рік тому +1

      Did you see my attempt at making fake beach glass? ua-cam.com/video/yAt1Y5cGfWI/v-deo.html

    • @traceywakefield3883
      @traceywakefield3883 Рік тому

      @@MichiganRocks I did see it thanks. To think I spent so much time getting labels off when I didn't have too. LOL.

  • @mikestahl3322
    @mikestahl3322 Рік тому +1

    Wife's tooth brush to funny 😁 Thank you for your hard work 👍 and information

  • @kimfrommn7162
    @kimfrommn7162 8 місяців тому

    You can learn something from every Video you produce!! Excellent Editing!!! 🤗♥️👍

    • @MichiganRocks
      @MichiganRocks  8 місяців тому +1

      Thanks. Hopefully this one was more educational that usual.

    • @kimfrommn7162
      @kimfrommn7162 8 місяців тому

      @@MichiganRocks I saved it!!!! 🤣🤣