How to TIG Weld: Master Filler Rod Feeding and Torch Control

Learning how to TIG weld starts with two overlooked fundamentals—how you feed your filler rod and how you grip your torch.

If you’re just getting into TIG welding, or your welds are inconsistent and frustrating, these two small adjustments can make a massive difference. Most beginners obsess over machine settings and arc technique, but miss what actually controls the weld: how you grip the torch and feed the rod.

In this post, I’ll break down exactly how to hold your TIG torch and feed filler rod the right way—so your arc stops wandering, your welds look cleaner, and the whole process finally clicks.

Why Feed Angle Makes or Breaks It

“Just feed into the puddle,” they say.
Cool — but where?

If you’re feeding too far ahead of the welding pool, the rod won’t melt right. That's why some people get that weird blob of bad filler on the tip of the rod. If you’re jabbing too close to the center of the welding puddle, you’re gonna dip that filler to the electrode and make a big mess of the tungsten.

👉 Aim for a sweet spot halfway between the leading edge and the center of the puddle. And keep your filler rod around 90° to your torch angle.

Feeding from the side or using a twisted wrist angle? That’s when things fall apart—messy tie-ins, undercut, or inconsistent fusion every time.

Stop Fumbling Your Rod

If you’ve ever nailed a clean pass and then bam — your filler rod hits the tungsten or misses the puddle’s sweet spot — you’re not alone.

That’s not a talent issue. It’s a positioning problem.

Your forearm and hand should be anchored, and your rod should feed through your fingers, not from a locked grip that moves your hand closer to the arc every step.

Pro tip: Do a quick dry run before you strike your arc — no helmet flip needed.
Practice not just torch control, but feeding the rod in and out, too.
Most people warm up their torch hand — but your filler hand deserves the same attention.

Torch Grip: Underhand vs Overhand

The underhand grip is great for plate work and fillets — it's stable, and you’ve probably used it a hundred times already.

But when you’re in tight joints or wrapping around a pipe?

The overhand grip gives you a better sightline and more comfort. It flips your torch hand position so you’re looking down onto the weld, instead of up under it. That visibility boost can make all the difference.

Want a breakdown and demo?
🎥 Watch me demonstrate the overhand grip in this video. 

Combine Grip + Feed Angle for Precision

These aren’t random style choices — this is where clean welds are born.

• Overhand + 90° filler = awesome for verticals or tight-access joints.

• Underhand + pinky support = great for long, flat runs — gives consistent torch height.

• Bent rod + fixed hand feed = clutch for wrapping pipe or corners.

And remember — don’t move your filler hand unless you absolutely have to. That’s how you keep your rhythm locked in.

Warm Up Like a Pro

Want an easy fix before every weld?

✅ Do a dry run. No arc.
Just move your torch and filler hand through the full motion.

• Check your grip.

• Adjust your angles.

• Lock in visibility.

• Feel the weld before you make it.

It’s the best 30 seconds you’ll spend all day.

Next Step: Grab the FREE Workbook

I’ve taught thousands of welders how to clean up their welds — and this stuff works.

If this clicked for you, grab my Free TIG Welding Workbook. It’s packed with:

• Grip and filler angle diagrams

• Muscle memory drills

• Gear setup tips

• Practice plans that save time and materials

You’ll stop guessing and start welding clean.

🎬 Or if you want to see this in action?
Check out my YouTube channel  — 145+ free lessons showing these exact tips on real joints and builds.

Welding isn’t about being gifted. It’s about doing the basics right—over and over—until it clicks.

Now flip your hood down and get to it.