Does using a wider foil on my project make it stronger?
Your project may be a little bit stronger with a wider foil since a wider solder line will tend to keep a seam from bending or flexing more than a narrower one. However, its not enough of a difference to be a major consideration in choosing a foil width for your project. The more likely reasons for choosing one foil width over another are:
as a design feature. You may want wider or narrower solder lines in certain areas of your project.
to account for thicker or thinner glass. Youll need to choose an appropriate width of foil to have your solder line remain a consistent width.
If you think strength or structure is a problem, some reinforcing other than just a wider foil is going to be necessary. For minor reinforcing, ask your supplier for a reinforcing strip. These thin metal ribbons come on spools and can be used as an unobtrusive structural reinforcement. They are placed between foiled glass pieces before soldering. Running a bead of solder over the reinforcing strip hides it completely.
Reprinted with permission from Stained Glass News. All rights reserved. Image pictured from 300 Stained Glass Cabinet Door designs.
Does using a wider foil on my project make it stronger?
