Hi There!
We're having a similar discussion about this product in this thread:
http://www.lampworketc.com/forums/sh...ealing+bubbles
I know that Malcolm at Artco is attempting to secure enough of the Annealing Bubbles for general sale - hopefully, he'll have an update for us soon.
My personal opinion on this product: Although I am still awaiting a "verdict" in terms of whether or not there is sufficient heat generated to properly "anneal" your finished beads using a heating method such as a crock pot, etc. and the "Bubbles" alone, I personally think this product is FAR SUPERIOR to vermiculite for use in your crock pot to SLOW COOL your beads before doing a KILN BATCH ANNEAL subsequent to cooling.
If you have a chance to use the Annealing Bubbles, I'd love to hear your feedback and findings!
DeAnne in CA