ArtMetal

Kevin,

I just saw your post and wanted to answer a bit. I don't know where you live, but Roto Metals in the San Francisco area sells tin and int alloys, they might even have the 60/40 pre alloyed if you are interested. As for lead, if car/truck tire weights are pure enough for you, you may be able to get used weights from a tire selling/changing company. I got 3 5 gallon buckets for a couple of pieces of smoked salmon. We have purchased tin ingots from Roto for pewter castings. Zinc is another metal used in stained glass came and is relatively low melting temp though higher than lead or tin. Both the lead and zinc have potential health problems if not worked with properly but I am sure you are aware of this already.

Just as an aside, there are some VERY LOW MELTING metals that are somewhat available that almost melt in hot water. I cannot remember the names of them but they were/are used in some foundry operations and a bit in the jewelry trade. I bet someone on the list will know what I am talking about.

Best of luck. Post and keep in touch with the list.

John Dach
john@MLCE.net
web site: http://www.MLCE.net and http://www.ctmandalas.com