Tip #6 - Vinegar

tip #6
Originally uploaded by bcyrjewelry

After casting - the metal is covered in the investment. Some pieces have tiny details that trap the investment and can't be removed with a simple scrub-a-dub-dub. I soak mine over night in vinegar. It not only cleans the investment off, but acts just like pickle and cleans the metal to a bright white! Though it might not look like it immediately, I just give them a quick scrub with a toothbrush soap and water and it takes off any residue that might just be sitting on the surface. If it is still not clean to your liking, just leave it in there longer. If the investment is all cleaned off but not completely white, I still proceed with my usual clean up and finishing and then drop it in the pickle if it needs it, though usually it doesn't.

It is a very economical solution to an ultrasonic cleaner. I use an old pickle jar (it already smelled like vinegar!) and buy a gallon at a time for about $2. The vinegar will start to turn blue after a few uses, just replace w/ fresh vinegar!