How are Fireworks Made (Part 2)

So how are fireworks made? If you read Part 1 of this two-part series, you're ready to delve into the details. This is a dangerous subject and a secretive topic, however, so information is hard to find on-line. Fortunately for you, I've dug deep and found plenty to share. Because what I learned could fill volumes, I won't repeat it all word-for-word here. Instead, I'll give you links to sources where you can find all the nitty-gritty details yourself. But remember to check your state and local laws before applying anything you learn. You've been warned!

Fireworks 101

One of the best resources I found was an online book called Practical Pyrotechnics by Wouter Visser. This book contains formulas, assembly instructions, and much more. It goes into detail about what to mix to make each color, and how to assemble them. By itself, this book is more than enough to get you started, but maybe you need some pictures that show how to assemble and mix ingredients. For that type of stuff, you may want to check out United Nuclear and, in particular, their Chemistry Experiments. Since most of the "good stuff" is no longer there, however, you may want to look at an older version of the same page in the web archive. If that still isn't enough for you, here is someone's web site with some additional pictures and details.

Beyond the Basics

After you study the basics of Fireworks 101 and wonder "What else can I do?", it's time to read some of the various newsletters. I've already pointed you to American Fireworks News, which includes all sorts of projects. Need another newsletter? No problem! Check out Skylighter's newsletter archive .

Open Your Wallet

By now, you know how to find enough information to be downright dangerous. So are you ready to open your wallet? Believe it not, you can buy just about anything you need to make any of the pyrotechnic devices you read about. I can't vouch for the safety of any these devices - and I would discourage you from building any of them - but, for the sake of completeness, I've included some information here. This, however, is where you really do need to find out if what you're about to do is legal. You've been warned!

I already mentioned Skylighter's newsletter, but the company's main business is to sell you stuff. A company similar to Skylighter goes by the same name as the Internet browser you may be using: Firefox. Just in case these Web sites aren't enough for you, and you only need particular items (such as fuses), you might want to check out Cannon Fuse.com

Be Careful

Now that you are exploding with information, I want to remind you not to hurt yourself if you choose to apply it. For me, I was able to satisfy my curiosity just by learning all the details. Now, when I see my local fireworks tonight, I'll know something about all the work that went into making them.