Clean:

Metals should be cleaned prior to use. Dip them in the pickle for a moment and rinse. The pickle is a mild acid, I prefer to rinse the work after each application to reduce exposure.

Flux:

Flux all parts by brushing (paste flux) on the top surface. Flux does three things, 1) it reduces fire scale; 2) reduces the temperature that solder melts; 3) helps solder flow along the join.

Touch:

Position the two pieces to be joined so that they touch. If the pieces are not touching the solder will not melt or flow. I keep my soldering pick at the ready to nudge parts close together.

Clip Solder:

Place a small piece of solder (approx. 1mm) on the join. Too much solder will make a secure join but the excess will sit on top and make the join area unattractive.

Dry the Flux:

Apply heat to your work from a distance. Flux is water based and will boil which will throw the little piece of solder off its mark. When the flux hits its target temperature, 1100F, it will turn clear and be stable.

Steady Flame:

Apply flame evenly and steadily. Solder likes to melt and flow toward the hottest object. By heating both sides of the join evenly, this will be prevented. Don't move your torch around. Hold it steady, approx. 1/4" from the work to the tip of the blue flame. Be patient. The solder will ball-up, become a shiny liquid, then flow.

Quench:

When your piece is successfully soldered, quench (dip) it in water. This will instantly bring it to room temperature. Test your soldered joint to see if it is secure.

Clean:

Place your item in the warm pickle to clean. The pickle will eat away at the fire scale and should be ready for the next solder join in a minute or two.

Repeat the cycle for each solder, don't try to do too many at one time. Take your time and enjoy the process.