1. I purchase the polishing paper assortment packs, and, because I can never remember which color corresponds to which grit, I keep a reference list with them in a zip-top bag in my bench drawer.

2. To make a polishing point, draw a circle on the back of the polishing paper and mark the halfway points using a circle template. I usually cut a 13/8-inch diameter circle, though you can adjust the size depending on your application.

3. Draw a cutting line to divide the circle in half, then cut them out.

4. With the straight edge of each half-circle facing to the right, add a strip of double-stick tape to the paper. Trim the tape to fit the paper.

5. Saw off the pointed end of a bamboo skewer to about 2 inches in length.

6. Wrap a small amount of double-stick tape around the pointed end of the skewer.

7. With the straight edge of the paper now facing left and the taped portion on the far side from the skewer, begin to tightly roll the paper around the skewer’s tip, forming a cone shape. Take care not to poke the point of the wood through the paper. It is important to roll in this direction so that the paper doesn’t unravel when spinning in the flex-shaft.

8. Once the paper is completely rolled on, smooth it down and press firmly to ensure it adheres well to the skewer.

9. These small polishing paper points are great for reaching into very tight areas between prongs, tabs, bezels, or other fine details, and the bamboo skewer will not mar metal or gemstones in the process. I make them in the entire range of grits.