Thanks for answering the silica question.
I have found washed playsand that says on our local hardware computer that it is not silica. It is very fine so will do for the final coat.
When I have a minute I have another couple of questions for you.

One more thing....I would love to take the workshop but you are a long way off.....and in a whole different set of dollars. Maybe someday.

I have never added my web site because it seemed like advertising,(where is the embarrassed 'smilie' when you need one? ) but in case anyone is curious:
WEBPAGES:
http://collections.ic.gc.ca/waic/collection.htm#t

http://www.caroltaylor.thedrawlyn.com

http://www.umoncton.ca/gaum/hpluc104.html

http://www.umoncton.ca/gaum/catalog/delta/delta_p10.html
(plus pages 11 and 12)

http://freshpilot1.nbed.nb.ca/
http://freshpilot1.nbed.nb.ca/taylorartstudio/index.htm