How do you handle your scraps? Do you pitch them or gather them like crumbs of gold and find a use for them? Guess which is my style? These stained glass votive holders were made from an assortment of my leftover pieces from previous projects. I love upcycling!
I thought they would be perfect for this month’s Bernzomatic Torch Bearer project because, with the bright red and green colors, they look so festive for the season! And you can add a real tealight or battery-operated versions.
There are two tools to choose from to get the job done. I mixed and matched both to get this look, but either one will do!
A lot of people think torches are only for plumbers, welders, etc. And mini-torches are only for chefs. Actually, there is a LOT you can do with a mini torch! All kinds of crafts, jewelry making and more. This one is my fave, the ST500. It works as a soldering iron, or remove the tip and it can be a micro torch or a mini heat gun.
Directions
Use a larger piece of glass for the base, and then the smaller to add around its edges. Once you have all your pieces, wrap them with copper tape. Make sure to burnish the edges to get the tape flush against the glass. Coat with flux.
Put on your goggles and gloves. Turn on your tool according to manufacturer directions. Make sure the exhaust hole is facing up and away from you, as well as the mirror. Heat up the tool, then touch it to the solder wire until it melts and let it drop on the copper tape area of the mirror. Carefully and with an even stroke, glide the tool across to spread the melted solder.
I bought these clamps from the dollar store and they sure come in handy for holding my pieces in place!
This is where your patience will come in. Because the pieces are odd shaped, you’ll have to play with them to find ways to make them fit – and look nice composition wise. Don’t feel like you have to connect each and every piece. I like the open spaces, they look very abstract!
Remember, always use the utmost care when using candles, and any hot tools! Wear those gloves and goggles!
