When To Stretching Lead?

by Susan
(MD)

I was wondering, when using lead came as a border, do you always have to stretch it and what do you use? Thank you for your time.

Answer

Hi Susan,

Here is the URL to my tutorial on lead came: Lead Came. It would be a good idea to read it, as it is goes into much more detailed than my answer below.

If the lead is dead soft or seems somewhat limp, you will have to stretch it. If it's stiff, then no you won't have to. Most lead is now made with the addition of another element to stiffen it. I only buy the stiffened lead and the only time I stretch it is when it is a bit twisted and needs to be straighten. If it is badly twisted, it goes in the scrap box.

What lead to use around the border is totally up to you. It depends on what you're constructing. If it's a window that will be installed in an opening, use H came. The size will depend on the beading that holds the window in place. If you don't want a border of lead to show, use lead a little narrower than the beading. If you do want a border of lead showing (my preference) use lead that is wide enough so that what shows is about the same width as the internal lead. Don't forget that you will have to figure all of this out before you draw your cartoon so you can make the correct allowances for the border lead.

For free hanging items the choice is yours. You can use U came or H came, wide or narrow. Use whatever compliments the panel.