Ask the Experts Rough Edges Q&A

I use a lot of acrylic beads in my designs, especially "pony" beads. I notice that a lot of them have excess plastic and rough edges left over from the manufacturing process. I was wondering what is the fastest and most effective way to file down these rough spots. Is it possible to use a rock tumbler for greater speed?

- Wendy

Jeweler's files, rotary tools and pearl or bead reamers are the recommended tools for removing rough edges from beads. 

Rock tumblers are recommended for metal-based jewelry and hard stones, and therefore would most likely damage the acrylic beads.

- Kristal Wick, Designer, Author and Jewelry-Making Expert