southerncharm,
I think using glass beads would put you in the poorhouse post haste. There is nothing wrong with using sand if you do it outside and use even a basic respirator. I don't think you would develop Silicosis after blasting one frame.
If you can't come to grips with this, maybe a search for a commercial blaster would ease your mind.
Although I don't know this for sure, on a apples to apples comparison, glass beads are probably equally as destructive on your lungs as silica sand.
In my unprofessional opinion, if you do it outside with a quality respirator you will be fine.
Stuart
