Flattening Solder Ahead of Time
Further to post #1015.
It can be difficult to source thin solder for SMD work.
Very thin solder seems to not have an appropriate amount of flux.
.5mm is a bit too large for soldering SMDs and usually results in using too much.
Parallel Pliers work well for flattening solder as you go; the main problem is it cuts into your soldering productivity and your soldering rhythm.
If you have a hard plastic or metal roller you can flatten solder quite fast and do it ahead of time.
Prepare few meters so it is ready to go when needed.
See the following images for this technique.
