Soldering is a process used to bond two pieces of metal along a seam, corner or joint. The bond is formed by liquefying a piece of solder wire with a heating iron and applying it to the seam. A well-placed solder can repair any piece of broken metal. Instead of replacing one of your expensive brass candlesticks, repair it with a patch of solder. With a few simple soldering tools, your candlestick will be illuminating rooms for years to come.

  • Soldering is a process used to bond two pieces of metal along a seam, corner or joint.

Rub the ends of the joints (parts to be connected) of the brass candlestick with a scouring pad. This removes any dirt and oil, which might weaken the solder.

Coat the ends of the joints with a light layer of soldering fluid, also known as flux. The fluid helps strengthen the solder as it hardens.

Assemble the joints of the brass candlestick as desired on top of the soldering pad. The pad is a simple platform made of a pin cushion-like material. Insert pins around the outside of the candlestick pieces to suspend them just above the bed -- this will hold the joints together as you solder.

  • Coat the ends of the joints with a light layer of soldering fluid, also known as flux.
  • Insert pins around the outside of the candlestick pieces to suspend them just above the bed -- this will hold the joints together as you solder.

Pre-heat the edges of the joints with a soldering iron to prepare them for application of the solder.

Bring a section of soldering wire into the path of the iron, just above the connection point of the joints. Heat the wire until it liquefies and drips into the seam.

Continue melting and applying solder until the seam is filled. Allow the solder to harden for two to four hours.

Turn the candlestick over, and apply solder to the other side of the seam. Allow the solder to harden for two to four hours.

File away any excess solder from the seam and polish, if desired.

TIP

All soldering supplies can be found at your local hardware store or crafts retailer.

WARNING

Use caution when handling the soldering iron -- it is extremely hot. Also be mindful of the liquid solder --this also is very hot. Do not allow children or pets near your work area.