It may seem the easiest water supply connections are plastic and pressure fitted. However, soldering can be just as easy.
You’ll need a propane torch, which consists of a cannister and a valve attachment which screws into the top. You’ll also need a roll of lead-free solder, solder flux, an inexpensive pipe cutter and steel wool or emery cloth.
Solder a fitting to a piece of pipe to get in practice. Cut a short length of pipe with the cutter. Slide the cutter over the pipe so it sits snugly, and tighten until the round blade puts light pressure on the pipe. Turn the cutter around the pipe, tightening the blade slightly every couple turns.
Clean the fitting and the end of the pipe with your steel wool so it’s burr-free and shiny. Apply a thin coat of flux to both, and insert the pipe into the fitting. Unroll a few inches of solder, but don’t cut it. Hold the pipe with insulated pliers; and keep your fingers well away from any soldering area; the pipes get hot very fast.
Light the torch (using the instructions on the cannister) and adjust the flame so you have a small pointed blue flame protruding an inch or so from the nozzle. Heat the fitting by touching the tip of the flame to it. When the flame around the fitting becomes green, touch the end of the solder to the joint. Solder will instantly fill the joint — there’s no need to clog it up with big globs.
Next time we’ll put your technique to use.