How to Make a Drill Powered Rock Tumbler

Last Updated: January 6, 2020

Rocks look really cool when smoothed to a bright shine, but you won't find many if you don't live near a river or beach. You can tumble rocks smooth, but shaking a jar for weeks is long and boring and a strain on the arms, and commercial rock tumblers aren't really worth it if you only have a few to do. Keep reading to learn how to make a simple drill-mount rock tumbler with things you probably already have at home.

Steps

1
Start with a wide mouth plastic jar, such as the kind mayonnaise or peanut butter comes in.
2
(hint; use a metal, or other material as a spacer, to allow rod to extend the rod through both ends of jar, for a simple support and lining the jar with rubber matting will extend the life of the plastic)

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3
Fill the the first inch or two of the jar with equal parts sand and water.
4
Drill a hole in the center of the lid small enough so that your bolt fits but in tightly.
5
Apply super glue or hot glue to the area around the drilled hole,(tip; use rubber washers/o-rings instead) .
6
Pull the bolt though the hole so it sticks out of the top. Tighten bolt right away. Tighten second bolt to lock the firsts position
7
Allow the glue to dry thoroughly.
8
Add rocks, screw on the lid, and tighten the drill chuck tightly around the bolt. Pull the trigger and let the rocks tumble.

Community Q&A

Question

How do I put the drill on the bolt so I can tumble?

Community Answer

Attach the drill to the bolt just as you would a drill bit. Open up the drill so the grips are wide enough to slide in the bolt. then tighten.
Question

How long do you tumble the rocks?

Community Answer

3- 7 days, depending on the characteristics of the rocks. Remember to check in at least once every 24 hours to check the rock's status and ensure things are running smoothly. Sometimes adding more time won't obtain the polish you desire, and in those situations, rub the stone with polish and a piece of leather to gain that shine.
Question

How can I tell if my drill-powered rock tumbler works?

Community Answer

Within the first 24 hours you should begin to see a difference in the texture and shine of your stones. As long as the drill is turning the container with the sand and water, it's working.

Warnings

This could damage the drill or walls or carpets. Use a slow speed if your drill is adjustable, and use common sense.

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