Came

Lead came cross sections02

Came is a slender, grooved bar of lead or other metal used in stained glass windows to hold the pieces of glass together. The term is also used to refer to the process of joining pieces of glass with these bars. Cames are typically made of lead, zinc, brass, or copper, and they come in various profiles, such as H-shaped or U-shaped, to accommodate different design needs.

History[edit | edit source]

The use of came in stained glass windows dates back to the Middle Ages, particularly in the construction of Gothic cathedrals. The technique allowed for the creation of intricate and colorful designs that were not possible with earlier methods of glasswork. The flexibility and malleability of lead made it an ideal material for this purpose.

Types of Came[edit | edit source]

Lead Came: The most traditional type, lead came is soft and easy to work with, making it ideal for intricate designs. However, it is also the most susceptible to weathering and corrosion.
Zinc Came: Stronger and more rigid than lead, zinc came is often used for larger panels that require additional support.
Brass Came: Offers a compromise between the flexibility of lead and the strength of zinc. It is often used for decorative purposes due to its golden color.
Copper Came: Known for its durability and resistance to corrosion, copper came is less commonly used but offers a unique aesthetic.

Manufacturing[edit | edit source]

Came is manufactured by extruding the metal through a die to create the desired profile. The bars are then cut to length and used to join pieces of stained glass. The joints are soldered together to create a stable and durable structure.

Applications[edit | edit source]

Came is primarily used in the creation of stained glass windows, but it can also be found in other decorative glasswork, such as Tiffany lamps and glass mosaics. The technique is still widely used today, both in the restoration of historical windows and in the creation of new works of art.

Maintenance[edit | edit source]

Stained glass windows with lead came require regular maintenance to ensure their longevity. This includes cleaning, re-soldering joints, and occasionally replacing the came itself. Proper care can help preserve these works of art for centuries.