Hi-Lo Tumbling Media – 1#

Instructions for Using Hi-Lo Tumbling Media

Hi-Lo tumbling media is a product made of silicon carbide and ceramic that is designed to be used with patina. It is great for burnishing and creating a satiny finish on high-relief areas while leaving recessed areas dark, which highlights the details of patterns and adds dimension. However, when using this media on silver-plated items, be aware that tumbling for too long can remove some of the plating. Additionally, never tumble any work that contains stones, gems, pearls, beads, or other embellishments.

To begin, color your pieces using any desired method of patina, such as Liver of Sulfur. Allow them to sit in the solution until they reach a level of darkness that you prefer, and then rinse them well. Next, fill your three-pound rotary tumbler barrel 1/3 to ½ full of Hi-Lo media, but do not overload the barrel. One pound of media is more than enough for a three-pound barrel. After adding your pieces, add ¼ – ½ tsp of 920 Compound and enough water to cover everything. Tumble until you achieve the desired result. Usually, 2 hours is enough, but you can go longer if needed. Once finished, rinse the media in a strainer and dry it on a towel. It is essential not to discard worn media down the drain, no matter how small it is.

If you want to add more shine to the matte finish created by the Hi-Lo media, you can tumble your pieces for an additional 20 minutes with stainless steel shot and some additional 920 compound. However, make sure to clean the tumbler barrel thoroughly before adding in the stainless steel shot, as the Hi-Lo media can damage its surface. Also, never use both types of media in the same barrel at the same time.

Finally, keep in mind that Hi-Lo tumbling media is consumable and will wear down over time. Hence, you can add new pieces as necessary. The lifespan of the media depends on how much work you do. The good news is that Hi-Lo contains no dangerous ingredients; therefore, no MSDS is required.