What is Rotten Stone?
Rotten stone, or rottenstone, is a form of powdered stone which is used to polish wood and some soft metals; you may also hear it referred to as tripoli. It is typically available from stores which cater to woodworkers, and it can also be ordered through specialty suppliers. This product can be useful to have around the home, as it can be utilized to buff out stains in addition to being used to finish wood. Classically, rotten stone is made from soft, powdered limestone mixed with silica. The result is a soft abrasive powder which can be used towards the end of the finishing process to create a smooth, clean finish. Typically, rotten stone is applied after varnishing and a rough polishing with pumice powder, which buffs out the big uneven spots, making it easier to use the rotten stone. After polishing, the wood should have a bright, glossy finish. Rotten stone comes in powder form, meaning that people must mix it into a paste before using it. Many woodworkers use oil to make their rot
