We get a small, but constant flow of questions from people who are having various problems with firework stars they are making. Perhaps the most common one is the problem of firework stars being "blown blind". That is, when aerial...
Quite often, pyrotechnic formulas, especially older ones, do not have the ingredients listed as a percentage of the total pyrotechnic formula, only as parts per total weight of the mix. An example of this would be the saxon pyrotechnic formula...
Introduction If that title doesn't grab your attention, maybe this video will: Plasma Cutter Torch Fountain in Action This 1/2-inch-ID, brilliant-red torch is a variety of fireworks fountain. A fireworks fountain is also called a "gerb" (pronounced like "gerbil" without...
Introduction Hand ramming small devices such as black-powder fountains and rocket motors is a great way to get started making fireworks. But as you advance you will find that consolidating pyrotechnic compositions by hand ramming will only get you so...
For reasons beyond my comprehension, people are forever calling up here and asking about making their own Chinese cakes. (A "cake" is a multi-tube repeating shot firework that shoots stuff up into the air.) I patiently explain to them that...
About this time of year we get lots of questions about attaching electric matches to consumer fireworks. That's because more and more people are using electrical firing systems to fire their 4th of July consumer fireworks shows, even at home....
Introduction What do I mean by a "spectacular" black powder rocket? By this term, I am thinking of a great looking rocket, with a unique tail as it ascends, followed by a long-lasting, eye-catching heading. Maybe I have in mind...
This is another wonderful jewel, which I lifted right out of the Pyrotechnic Mailing List. John Vico wrote it and graciously gave us permission to reprint it here. If you're just learning to make fireworks, and/or you're new to rolling...
Introduction In its simplest form, a fireworks mine is a device which shoots a spray of stars skyward from ground level. This dramatic low-level effect, complementing and contrasting with high aerial shells, can lend welcome variety to any fireworks display....
This article on making a drying chamber, by Ned Gorski, is a side article that goes with the Tiger Willow Shells in 2-1/2 Days - Part 2 article. How to Make a Simple Drying Chamber The chamber is simply a...
My experience with liquid fueled colored flame mines started small. A friend of mine, who is a professional storyteller, wanted to create some "atmosphere" at one of his outdoor gigs. He wanted some colored flames in the background to burn...
"Go Getters" are an animated type of star, usually seen in aerial shells, sometimes in mines. Go Getters appear to "swim" all over the sky. The animated effect is similar to flying fish fuse, but much larger and brighter. Go...
