How to Make Flash Powder for Magic Tricks

By eHow Hobbies, Games & Toys Editor

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Every magician enjoys adding a little sparkle and excitement to their show. This is easily obtainable by using flash powder, a substance often used in shows to make a bit of spark at the height of an illusion. To make flash powder, follow the steps below.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

Aluminum powder
Potassium perchlorate
Scale
Plastic bag
Fuse

Step1

Gather your chemicals. Magic flash power has only two components: aluminum powder and potassium perchlorate. You'll need at least 400 mesh aluminum powder; the smaller the mesh, the better. This is available many places online. Potassium perchorate is more rare.

Step2

Measure out your ingredients. Use a ratio of 30% aluminum powder and 70% potassium perchlorate to make your magic flash powder. If you're worried about static electricity in the air, spray diluted fabric softener around your work area. Put the aluminum powder into the bag.

Step3

Mix your chemicals. In order to make magic flash powder, you must also add the potassium perchlorate to the bag, and then shake it gently until the chemicals are mixed.

Step4

Care for your magic flash powder properly. It is important to leave containers open if they contain flash powder. This will help prevent any accidents or explosions. Only make enough to use immediately, as flash powder should never be stored.

Step5

Test your magic flash powder. To activate your flash powder, simply place a small pile of it on the ground, making sure to clear the area of anything that could catch fire. Insert a fuse that is least 10 inches long and easily lightable from a short distance. After lighting the fuse, back away and watch the show.

Tips & Warnings

More and more restrictions are being placed on potassium perchorate in the U.S., but it is still available online.
Be very careful when mixing and moving flash powder chemicals. Heavy friction and static can cause flash powder to explode.
Always work with the smallest amount possible for your project. This helps keep damage down to a minimum in case of explosions.