Soldering

December 15, 2014
Grades 5-8 Though not the most obvious fit into the 21st Century Skills Innovation Library series, this introduction to soldering provides DIYers with basic guidelines to a skill still useful for a variety of projects, from jewelry making and plumbing to creating or repairing electronic circuits. The focus here is solely on soldering electronic wiring, so readers will find it at least a good first step. Along with general directions for proper care and safe use of a straight soldering iron (pistol-shaped ones are not recommended for beginners), Nelson describes different kinds of solder, recommends other useful tools, outlines techniques for making strong joins, and even explains how to desolder a join or short. He concludes with instructions for making an LED mini flashlight. Color photos depict gear, a soldered electronic board, and a young solderer at work. This quick but utilitarian guide closes with leads to several more detailed print and online resources.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2014, American Library Association.)