Hi Everyone,

Can anyone tell me if tumbling copper is a good way to finish it? Also, very important for me to know if using regular steel shot vs. stainless steel shot makes any difference in the finish of copper? I just tried tumbling a few pieces in regular steel shot and the copper looks rather dull, not at all as shiny as sterling comes out of the tumbler. I haven't purchased any stainless shot because someone told me there is no difference as far as quality of the tumbled items go. If tumbling is not a good option for copper, then what would be best? I have a lot of jumprings and links in copper and need a way to finish them.

Thanks,

Sue

Copper looks great out of the tumbler.  Stainless or carbon steel makes no difference but, you do need to care for carbon steel shot with diligence.  You can buy Shot Saver solution (all the usual places), for your carbon shot - after you're finished tumbling you rinse your shot, return to the barrel and cover with Shot Saver to prohibit rust from forming. I think burnishing compound produces a much nicer finish in less  time  (and cheaper) than dish soap.

Thanks, loopy. How long do you tumble the copper and what type of burnishing compound is best for copper? I must be doing something wrong for my copper pieces to come out rather dull than shiny.

Sue

 I use the same burnishing solution for silver, gold and copper and tumble for about 15-20 minutes with (stainless) steel shot.  I bought the solution from Thunderbirdsupply.com or Riogrande.com, I can't recall.  The solution is concentrated and it really seems to last forever (I use one cap for a barrel of water).  You can also buy granulated burnishing compound from Diamond Pacific, one tablespoon to a gallon of water - the last time I bought some it was a pound for $5.