Alrighty, I spent an hour or so reading all the great tips around here and after that went out and bought another pot. I followed all the directions I read around here and not only did not melt the new pot but also achieved crema! I think the main thing I did was increase the amount of coffee and lower the flame on the stove. I brewed a great cup and could not be more pleased. Thanks guys for all the great info, I will try not to be a stranger on this section in the future.