First Soldering Disaster

So, Sunday I tried my hand at soldering brass hoops (for my Hoopla Series) that I made from 18 gauge stock. Mind you, I had been soldering nickel silver previously. I am a newbie at this soldering thing, so I wasn't aware of the difference in melting points of the two metals. Evidently, nickel is much harder than brass. The first couple of brass hoops I attempted to solder melted. It was the funniest thing. It was like a disappearing act. Now you see them, now you don't! Here's a picture for your viewing pleasure...