How to Make Fireworks Fuses?

A fuse is the part of a firework that initiates the function of burning or lightning. It is also termed a pyrotechnic initiating device. Firework fuses are specialist items used in fireworks, cannons, firearms, and many other forms of pyrotechnics. It is legal for the public to add additional fuses to link multiple fireworks together and doesn’t require any license.
The majority of fireworks retailers do not store fireworks fuses. That is why you won’t be able to buy them with your fireworks. Instead, you will need to purchase a fuse from a specialized pyrotechnic company or make your own at home.

To make slow-burning fireworks fuses

Sometimes, things may go wrong when experimenting with fireworks, and you don’t want to be too close when your fireworks explode. So you need some firework fuses that are time-delaying. Make a simple form of slow-burning fuse for these types of projects.

Material needed

• Stump remover
• White table sugar
• Frying pan
• 100% cotton yarn 12 feet long
• Oven tray/baking sheet

Procedure

Make a foamy slurry

Take stump remover and sugar in a 1:1 ratio. Shake up vigorously in a disposable glass. Preheat the pan to medium heat, then add one-third cup of water. It boils instantly. Slowly sprinkle the stump remover and sugar mixture in the boiling water. Stir the mixture till you get a saturated solution. Let it sit for a while. Reheat the mixtures till you get a foamy slurry. It’s time to add the yarn.

Soak the thread

Hold one end of the yarn and dip the rest in the slurry to soak up the chemicals. Holding onto one end will prevent the thread from knotting up when you pull it up. Every part of the yarn must absorb an equal amount of chemicals. So make sure to stir it using a spatula.

Make a wavy pattern out of soaked thread

Transfer the yarn onto a baking sheet making a wavy pattern of about six turns on each side. Make sure that the threads are equal distances apart and fit perfectly.

Bake the threads

Set the oven to 300°C for about 20 minutes and place the baking sheet. Please take out the yarn from the oven after 20 minutes. It will develop a slightly golden tint and becomes stiff after baking.

Cool off and cut the fuses

Please leave it to cool for about 5 to 10 minutes and cut the threads using scissors. That’s it. Your slow-burning fuses are ready to be used.

To make Slow-Mo fireworks fuses

Another type of slow-burning fuse can be made using sugar rocket fuel.

Material needed

• Sugar rocket powder
• Boiling water
• Container
• Spatula

Procedure

• Take one tablespoon of sugar rocket powder and put it in a container.
• Add two spoons full of boiling water to the glass containing the powder.
• Mix it vigorously using a spatula till you get a saturated solution.
• Cut natural fibre cords into one-foot-long pieces and dip them in the mixture.
• Please take out the cord and let it dry. Your slow-mu fuses are ready.

To make Pyrodex fireworks fuses

This type of fuse is not waterproof. The black powder used in these types of fuses is highly inflammable so handle it with extra care.

Material needed

• Crepe paper
• Pyrodex powder
• Glue stick

Procedure

• Cut the crepe paper into 1-inch wide and 4-inch long pieces.
• Apply the glue stick along the long side of the paper, leaving ¼ part in width without glue.
• Sprinkle the powder on the paper where you apply the glue. You will see the powder is not sticking to the part where you don’t use the glue.
• Now apply the glue to the part which you leave.
• And twist the crepe paper so that the powder remains inside the fuse.
• Your fuse is ready to use for your firework show.

Note: You can also use sugar ticket fuel if you don’t have access to Pyrodex powder.

To make fireworks fuses using alcohol

Material needed

• Shoelace
• Rubbing alcohol

Procedure

Take a 6-inch piece of shoelace and dip it in the alcohol for several seconds until the alcohol evaporates. That’s it. Your fuse is ready to lit.

To make sugar firework fuses

Material needed.

• Potassium nitrate
• Sugar powder
• Water
• Linen or cotton thread
• Containers

Procedure

• Mix the saltwater powder and sugar powder in a 1:1 ratio.
• Lay the powder mixture in a container and pour 60 to 80ml water.
• Put the container with the contents on the fit at the medium flat until you get a saturated solution.
• Now take 4 feet long pieces of cotton thread and make a small roll.
• Dip the thread roll in the saturated solution container for 5 minutes on low to medium flame.
• Take the thread rolls using a spatula when they are still hot.
• Let them cool off for 5 to 10 minutes.
• Use a sharp knife or pair of scissor and cut the thread whirls on one point, so you get 6-inch long threads.
• Place them on the baking sheet. Please make sure they are all in a straight position.
• Set the oven to 200°C for 15 minutes, and place the baking sheet and the threads in the oven.
• Please take out the threads after 15 minutes and let them cool off.
• Your fuses are done!

Takeaway

• Never lean over lit fireworks when lighting the fuse. Back up to a safe distance right after lighting them.
• If you find unexploded fireworks, leave them be. Never try to relight or handle them. Soak them with water and throw them away.
• Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose nearby the area where you’re lighting fireworks.
• Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
• Light fireworks one at a time, then move away from them quickly.
• Never carry firework fuses in a pocket or shoot them off in metal or glass containers.
• Parents and caretakers should always closely supervise teens using fireworks.
• Only use fireworks outdoors.
• Never hold fireworks in your hand after they’ve been lit.
• Always wear eye protection when igniting fireworks.