How to Make a Firecracker

A firecracker is different than fireworks. The purpose of a firecracker it to make a loud noise. Fireworks, while noisy, have a visual component of colors and burn patterns with the addition of various explosive powders and chemicals. Firecrackers are thought to have originated in China. Today they are used in conjunction with celebrations around the world.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Ink pen casing
• Masking tape
• Cotton balls
• Hot glue gun and glue
• Fuse, 3/32 inch in diameter
• Drill and bit the same diameter as the fuse
• Flash powder
• Protective eyewear

1. Cut the pen tube to the desired length with a sharp knife or craft scissors. Make the tube longer for a louder explosion.
2. Push a piece of the cotton ball just inside one end of the tube. Place a layer of hot glue on top of cotton to seal it.
3. Wear protective eye goggles. Drill a hole in the center of the length of the tube. Put a small piece of tape over the hole.
4. Hold the tube upright with the sealed end down and fill it loosely with the flash powder. Leave about 3/8 inch of space at the top of the tube. Put a bit of cotton in the open end of the tube. Add a layer of hot glue to seal it.
5. Cut a piece of fuse at least 2 1/2 inches long to allow enough burn time. Stick one end of the fuse through the piece of tape and into the drilled hole. Push the fuse securely into the flash powder.
6. Tape both ends of the tube with three layers of tape. Cover the length of the type with two layers of tape on either side of the fuse.
7. Set the firecracker to explode in an area away from combustibles, property that could be damaged and animals. Light the fuse and move quickly away from the firecracker at least 10 to 15 feet.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't pack the flash powder into the tube.
• If the firecracker doesn't explode after the fuse burns, don't approach it for at least an hour. The fuse below the tube could still be lit and ignite the flash powder even after several minutes.