WordenSystem™

INSTALLING SECTIONAL CAST BRASS TREE LIMB FILIGREE ­ BF5 and BF3

Installing Tree Limb Filigree: They are similar to the original castings on the Tiffany lamps, replace many glass pieces and add much to the appearance and value of the lamp. The openings between the branches were meant to be left open to create more realism and also to vent the heat from the light bulbs.

Cleaning: Scrub the surface clean of any remaining polishing compounds, oxide, or protective oils with a degreasing detergent, hot water, and fine steel wool. Rinse and dry.

Tinning: Use generous amounts of the same flux you are using for copper foiling before heating. The castings must be heated above 425 degrees (the melting point of solder) so the solder will adhere and flow easily. Use a 150 watt soldering iron, small propane torch, or your own kitchen oven to get the filigree hot enough.
A second smaller 60 -100 watt soldering iron with a small tip will help to spread the solder into all the small openings. Wash, rinse, and dry.

Installing: Start with the filigree first. Treat the filigree just like another piece of glass. To fit place the filigree in position on the SectionalForm™ with pins. It may be necessary to file or grind the edges of the branches to get a proper fit. Due to the number of bridging pieces the two form method of assembly is also very helpful in fitting the tree limb filigree.

The first row of foiled wrapped glass pieces may need to be modified in order to fit to the filigrees bottom edge.