how do you start a butt weld

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I'm new to welding.  I have a lincoln PT 185.  I've been playing around with the the different settings.  I can make pretty good looking tig passes on flat surfaces. I've seen butt weld pics with a gap between the two pieces, how is the gap joined? How do you start?  Do you start the arc on one piece and push it to the other.Do you go back an forth between the two pieces and add filler?Les
Reply:usually an open root (gap) is used when full penetration is required and you can only weld from one side of the joint.  If the gap is just right you can start a puddle and drag it over to the other piece, and run right down the middle of the seam.  If you have a larger gap then you might have to use a weaving from side to side motion to keep the center from falling out.  Best way for you to learn is to set up some pieces and give it a try.  In doing you will learn what it takes....I'm a Lover, Fighter, Wild horse Rider, and a pretty good welding man......
Reply:Build up on one side bit by bit with medium heat, then when it's bridged open the throttle to your comfortable range for an open root and alternate the heat into each piece back and forth.
Reply:you mentioned you were doing passes with tig. well if you want to try a butt weld with tig, i'll tell you how i do it. i usually tack the pieces a tad bit smaller than the filler rod size. that way you can stick that filler rod in the gap and now have it push through. just strike an ark and move the puddle up and down quickly, burning away at the filler rod. if you sit to long in a spot, you can get a massive key whole or you can get suck back which brings the root in instead of out. hope this helps, i am still new to welding so i am no pro over here
Reply:Start your bead in about 1/8".  You will have to start on one side.  Build up each side a little and use the filler to jump the gap.  It won't jump on its own.  Once the gap is bridged, move back to the edge, then go forward again to continue the weld.David Real world weldin.  When I grow up I want to be a tig weldor.