Hello,
A write up on making your own refractor Astro Society S.A.
https://www.assa.org.au/resources/eq...g-a-refractor/
Not sure if they still operate, but they have some interesting F/L and up to 8" blanks:
http://www.newportglass.com/achromat.htm
Steve
Ps. I've found grinding the reflector glass very enjoyable, but haven't started the strain and pain of parabolisation yet.