Grain tools ..other uses.

[Gemsetterchris]

While on the subject of these things.
Old grain/beading tools are probably my favourite multi tool..

You can with a grinder/small diamond disc & abit of imagination make:
Half round scorpers
Stone "picker uppers"
Pushers
Burnishers

All different shapes & sizes to suit. Stuff that you just can`t buy & don`t need to.

Just to add, brass rod of the same thickness to fit your holder can be fashioned the same way..much better for softer stones than steel.

[ps_bond]

That list is what most of my worn-out burrs get used for...

[mikethejeweller]

What do you use on the end of them for a "stone picker upper" tried some beeswax but seems to need slight heating every time i wish to use it as it harden and wont stick to the stones

[ps_bond]

For small stones, the surface tension of a drop of water is enough.

[Gemsetterchris]

Just dab the end on your tongue.

[ps_bond]

I got *such* a telling off for doing that!

[Gemsetterchris]

?! So long as you use your own tools Make a damp sponge dabber if you must.

[ps_bond]

"You're spitting on the customer's jewellery" - yebbut, the ultrasonic does a lot to deal with that... So yes, I have an Ikea nightlight holder with a small amount of sponge in the bottom of it.

[Wallace]

What do you use on the end of them for a "stone picker upper" tried some beeswax but seems to need slight heating every time i wish to use it as it harden and wont stick to the stones

add a small bit of glycerine to the mix


my brass burnisher is brilliant. I got some 2mm rod from ye olde ebay and then filed the end down. It is wonderful for amethyst, tourmaline and labradorites. Haven't used it on any other stones yet, but it doesn't leave a mark on them.

[ps_bond]

add a small bit of glycerine to the mix

Should we swig it from the bottle?