A tack welding method for use with a hybrid laser arc welding process. The method provides a recess on an edge of a first piece. The edge of the first piece is configured to cooperate with a second piece. The method positions the first piece relative to the second piece so as to provide a gap between the first piece and the second piece. Subsequently, the method provides a tack weld within the recess of the first piece. The recess is configured to accommodate placing the tack weld at a root of the gap.