Kids in The Shop [Was: RE: [TheForge] 52100]

[xlch58 at swbell.net]

Washington, Aubrey O. wrote:
> Mikey,
>  
> I like the idea of practicing on tin.  The only problem with that is I don't have any except in the form of solder wire.  I have plenty of lead, but I sure don't want kids playing with that!  I guess I'll have to look around for a source of tin.  Thanks for the suggestion.
>  
> Aubrey
>
> _

Tin costs more than twice as much as copper, so personally, I would 
suggest that you let them work on large gauge copper and just anneal it 
periodically.    I used to use copper wire cuttofs to teach scouts how 
to move metal with a hammer.  A propane torch and a milk jug full of 
water was all I needed in addition to a small harbor freight anvil and a 
collection hammers.  I used to do much of the instruction in a school 
cafeteria on a table.   That way, when we had a campout and my real 
equipment, they already had the basics.


Charles