ArtMetal

I just realized that this thread is out of date, but since I got to writing I think I'll post this anyways.... I hope things have been working out for you!

For your size model and unknown but probably relatively small quantities I would have thought that perhaps a vacuum casting setup might have been a good option. Expense is similar to shell setup but more on equipment side, less on consumables and space side, a ratio I prefer. You can have a wax bench, moldmaking bench, small autoclave/dewax pot, mid-size kiln, vaccuum casting machinery and small furnace, finishing bench w/ multiple torches, and patina area, all set up in a 1 car garage in compact mode, 2 car garage in spacious mode.

Bonus is vacuum for mold making, not to mention vent free, immaculately detailed and vent-free castings. Other bonus is no shell mixer and various tray or tray substitute schemes, and very fast turnaround- 24 hours from flask to cast is no problem.

Either way, at this scale I would plan for steam dewaxing, it is non-odorous and reclaimed wax is high quality. Good for the neighbor factor too.

And don't forget ventilation and dry fire extinguishers!

- - Dave