What is came?

Came is a thin strip of lead or zinc used to secure pieces of colored glass or stained glass into a geometric pattern known as a panel. The process of using came to create stained glass windows and other decorative art pieces is called "leading."

Came can be purchased in different widths and thicknesses depending on the size of the glass pieces being secured and the weight of the panel as a whole. It also comes in various shapes, including H-shaped came, U-shaped came, and flat came.

When creating a stained glass panel, the pieces of glass are first cut to a desired shape, and then edged with a grinder to smooth out any rough edges. The edges of the glass pieces are then wrapped in a copper foil tape before being inserted into the came channel. The came is then bent and shaped around the glass to hold it in place, and the joints are soldered together.

Came can also be used in other decorative art applications, such as creating borders on mirrors or picture frames. It is a durable, long-lasting material that allows for intricate designs and vibrant colors in stained glass art.