What can I use for spacers w/ my DIY mantel shield?

Hi everyone--

I need to make a mantel shield, and can't seem to find ceramic spacers. Went to Lowes, and they didn't have any. Checked at the only local stove shop, and they don't have anything.

Any ideas on something else I could use for the spacers? I had read in one article that copper spacers would work. Lowes also had steel spacers, but these would obviously conduct heat.

Or is there an online source for ceramic spacers?

Thanks for any information. Ian

I got mine from a local hardware store. It was a kit that had 1" spacers w/ long screws. I love that store, they have everything! It was something similar to this:
http://www.northlineexpress.com/detail~PRODUCT_ID~5CO-54230.asp