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Stained Glass/chipped glass

Expert: Kent Lauer - 5/7/2009

Question

Hi.. I am making a sidelight for a customer, and just noticed a chip in the
corner of a 4x4 bevel that is right in the middle of the sidelight. I haven't
cemented the panel yet, as i just finished soldering it. What can I do? Also, is
there a way to keep the lead silver after cementing as it usually turns darker
after the process? Help!!

Answer

Kent lauer sculpture

Hi Gigi,
   Thanks for sending a picture of your sidelight. There are only two things to do, take the panel apart and replace the bevel, or cut the lead around the broken piece and take it out that way. As far as keeping the lead shiny, after you are done cementing the panel, rub the lead with some very fine steel wool, and that will bring it back to shiny silver. It won't stay that way for long because the lead starts to oxidize, and is does so it gets darker.
  It will be much easier to replace the broken bevel before it is cemented. Hope this helps,
  Kent

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