To Mend Cracks
Wet fingers with cold water and press edges together. Repairing cracks before baking will reduce the chance of cracks reappearing while baking.
Choosing the Right Pan
For optimum baking results, use a glass or dull-metal pie pan. Avoid shiny metal or disposable aluminum pans, which reflect heat and prevent crusts from browning. Dark pans may cause crusts to brown too much. Avoid pans with holes in the bottom.