Question Hi, I have been doing copper foil projects and have usually framed them is zinc came. But, this piece is a half moon shape and I don't have a machine to help me form the arch. So would it be OK to use lead came on the top curve and zinc came across the bottom? Any gotchas or tips would be appreciated.
Dianna
Answer Yes, it would be perfectly okay to mix lead and zinc. However, why don't you use all lead? It will be just as strong, easier to use and the border will all look the same.
I don't know if you plan on using patina on the border, but lead and zinc each take a different patina. If you don't use patina, the lead will form it's own patina (the color gets darker) over time where as the zinc will stay bright.
If you're concerned about strength, use copper restrip to reinforce the panel. The restrip will give the panel all the strength it will need, and it will attach to the frame when you solder, strengthening the frame as well.
If you have never used restrip please let me know and I'll give you a short tutorial on how to use it.
