How to Make a Firework Fuse for Smoke Bombs

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Last Updated: February 24, 2025

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Using Rubbing Alcohol

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Using Potassium Nitrate (Salpeter)

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Warnings

There are two simple ways. One using rubbing alcohol, and another with potassium nitrate (sold at pharmacies and grocery stores as 'saltpeter') Both ways are effective.

Method 1

Method 1 of 2:

Using Rubbing Alcohol

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For the rubbing alcohol, simply take a shoelace, and soak about 6 inches (15.2 cm) in the alcohol, for several seconds, and then use sooner than later, as the alcohol will evaporate. Simply use as a fuse and light. This will make a flame towards the explosive on the string, opposed to a series of sparks, as the average fuse.

Method 2

Method 2 of 2:

Using Potassium Nitrate (Salpeter)

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Then take a piece of shoelace, and soak it in water for several seconds, and then place in the container of potassium and sugar, so that the string is fully coated.

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Question

Where do you find the potassium?

Community Answer

Stump remover works best. Go to your local hardware store and look for some.

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Question

Where can I get potassium?

Community Answer

Stump remover works best. Look for it at your local hardware store.

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Warnings

Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and use extreme caution when working with potassium nitrate.
- Contact with potassium nitrate can cause eye and skin irritation. Users should wear gloves and eye protection.
- Inhaling potassium nitrate can irritate the nose and throat. Users should wear a tight-fitting respirator.
- When detonated, the potassium nitrate fuse produces a large amount of smoke, which, when inhaled, can lead to headaches, fatigue, and dizziness.
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