Post #279299 by Tamapoutini on Wed, Jan 17, 2007 12:29 AM

On 2007-01-12 00:20, pdrake wrote:
how can i make these better? when viewed under the magnifier i carve with there are bumps and pits. do i need better tools? what am i doing wrong? help me ben kanobi, you're my only hope.

Young Jade-Jedi: Be mindful of your tools...

Im guessing that you are still doing most/all of your shaping with your handpiece?.. If so this will probably be where/why you are having trouble getting an even surface. Using small burrs to achieve 'large' surfaces/shaping is a tall order for anyone. You really need to set yourself up a diamond grinding wheel ('periperal' or flat). The much larger surface area & the action of holding the stone against the wheel (as opposed to scrubbing the burrs against the stone) gives far greater cutting power & a broader cutting-'stroke', making smoother surfaces. Does this make sence?

Despite the ripple, your polish looks great. A fairly high polish? Did you buff with tin-oxide?

The new slab looks nice too. I think working on something thicker might just be what the doctor ordered for you... My advice; plan something 'Epic' for it. I believe a big/impressive carving (that wont break on you) is a good learning project for a beginner & is a cool/substantial/satisfying thing to keep for the future.

"May the Quartz be with You..." T3-PO :lol: