[LazyPup]

If possible position the torch so the majority of the flame is on the fitting with the flame pointing in the direction of the pipe, allowing the feather tip of the flame to preheat the pipe.

If you look at the flame closely you will see a dark blue inner core of the flame that comes to a point. Try to hold that inner point on the edge of the fitting at the joint.

After you give it a few moments to preheat, test the heat by lightly touching the end of the solder on the pipe at the joint on the opposite side from the flame. Do not hold the solder in the flame as that will melt the solder before the pipe and fitting are sufficiently heated to accept the solder.

As soon as the joint is hot enough to freely melt the solder, pull the torch flame back and allow the heat of the joint to melt the solder.