In
general, lead came is butted at the joints. However
there is another way to make the joints. This is often
referred to the European (as opposed to the English)
method.
The
came is still angled to meet the lead to which it is
to be joined. However before presenting the cut came
to the joint, one end is lightly tapped with a small
hammer to slightly curve the end of the came. This allows
it to slip inside the leaves of the came to which it
will be soldered.
The
came is then shaped to the glass as normal. However,
rather than removing the came for the next cut, the
came is cut to the length of the glass, often using
the glass as a guide. This end is then supported on
the lead knife and tapped with the hammer to curve the
end, ready for tucking into the next piece of came.
Care is required so that you don't crush the came and
break the glass, nor miss the came and hit the glass
or your fingers. With practice, there are few accidents.
Tucking
lead provides very accurate joints with no gaps for
solder to fall through. Some argue it provides a stronger
panel as the hearts of the jointed cames almost meet.
The main immediate gain is quicker soldering. you are
in production mode, a powered table saw may be worthwhile.
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