If you are using a mold be sure to put it over a candle to blacken the mold before you pour your lead. Also, I prefered the powder paint. If you use it, make sure to open the "eyes" on the ooks before you bake the paint on. this will save you ALOT of frustration later. Ask around at little auto shops, many will have old tire weights that they may just give you to melt down. I used to make my own jigs so if you have anymore questions, send me a pm.
One more tip, ALWAYS wear saftey glasses when pouring lead and melting it. I put to big of piece in the pot it once and it blew up and the end result could have been really bad...