Support the Troops

I have been using macrame rings for borders.  I buy the ring, pin it to my work board and posterboard, trace a circle INSIDE the ring, then build my glass piece after removing the ring.  I design a pattern, or use bevels, then the usual grinding, foiling, fitting, and soldering--all after the ring has been put back to serve as the border.  The rings get very hot, so soldering becomes a task so as not to crack the glass.  There has to be room for expansion within the ring. Then I can apply solder to the ring, and add patina.  I even can stipple the border for a nice effect.  This piece I made for our front window while my Army son was deployed in Afghanistan.  It is a Yellow Ribbon of sorts.  I purchased the ribbon bevel.  Any kind of glass can be used.  I made pink for breast cancer survivors.  I used the 1/4" silver or brass rings for mounting--or placed the pieces in iron holders.  Cutting the glass can be difficult without a saw, but not impossible.