How to Build Homemade Fireworks

Fireworks are a nationally recognized means of celebrating America's independence. They are used in professional settings as well as personal places such as yards and fields. Fireworks can be store-bought or homemade, but whether you go the manufactured or homemade fireworks route, you should handle these explosives with caution and in accordance with all local and state laws.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 1 1/2-inch paper tube with 1/16-inch wall thickness
• 2 end plugs, paper with 1/16-inch thickness
• 1 1/2 inches of waterproof fuse
• 1/2 teaspoon of flash powder
• Glue
• Scissors
• Nail

1. Plug one of the ends of a paper tube. Run a small amount of glue around the plug, and insert it. Allow glue to dry before continuing.

2. Puncture the tube in the middle of one side with a sharp nail.

3. Cut the fuse to 1 1/2 inches, and insert it into the tube. The fuse should go about halfway across the diameter of the tube. Glue the fuse, and allow it to dry before continuing.

4. Mix the flash powder.

5. Use a funnel to fill the tube about two-thirds full with the flash powder.

6. Plug the other end. Add the glue, and allow to dry before attempting to ignite. You don't want the explosive to go off prematurely.

Tips & Warnings

• Using professional firework parts will greatly reduce possible harm.
• Not filling to tube entirely with powder with allow for a louder explosive effect.
• Flash powder can be made from home ingredients by mixing half and half fertilizer and sugar. This homemade form is not as reliable as professional flash powder.
• Making homemade fireworks is dangerous. Using professional powder greatly reduces risks to health.