What are sparklers?
Sparklers are generally made from a length of mild steel wire that is dipped into a thick slurry of pyrotechnic composition that, when dry, coats the wire for approximately 2/3 of its length. The Sparklers are normally gray in color, but can be lightly spray-painted whatever color you want. Choose good quality spray paint, such as Krylon, and remember to use a light, even coat. Our wedding sparklers are made from a wire core – don’t be fooled by cheaper options such as bamboo made sparklers which can emit smoke and drop hot ash which can ruin clothing. Sparklers are not available in silver. Unfortunately, the chemicals used to manufacture silver sparks are not allowed under the current federal regulations for sparklers, and therefore silver sparklers are not currently on the market. Sparklers are classified as novelties by the federal government and are not defined as consumer fireworks. Under this classification sparklers can legally be shipped through the U.S. mail system and do not
Sparklers are generally made from a length of mild steel wire, the most common sizes being 8″, 10″, 14″, 20″ and 30″ long. The wire core is dipped one or more times in a thick slurry of pyrotechnic composition that, when dry, coats the wire for approximately 2/3 of its length. Good quality, well-made sparklers should have their composition applied in a smooth, even coat without cracks or excessive bumpiness. The wire and the composition should exhibit no signs of rust as the presence of rust indicates sparklers that have been subjected to high moisture conditions. Rusty sparklers will burn only with difficulty, if at all, and should not be used. In the last few years some of the Chinese manufacturers have tried to introduce sparklers made with a bamboo splint (not to be confused with “Morning Glories”, a different type of device altogether see the FAQ section). Instead of a metal wire as the core, a thin section of bamboo has been substituted, sometimes dyed a bright color. Bamboo spar
Sparklers are handheld fireworks, most commonly seen in the US on the Fourth of July. In some states, they may only be available a few weeks before the Fourth. In other states and towns, the traditional sparklers, that most adults are familiar with, are no longer for sale or in use. Sparklers are very pretty, but unfortunately are the major cause of burn related injuries associated with personal fireworks. Standard sparklers feature a long thin rod, about 12 inches (30.48 cm) long. One side of the rod is meant to be held, while the other side is dipped in certain metallic fuels that can give off a color, usually one color only. Common metals that burn well include iron and aluminum, to which chemicals like potassium nitrate, potassium chlorate, carbon or sulfur may be added. To get certain colors, barium, copper and and strontium are added, producing green, blue/green, and red sparks respectively. A sparkler’s tip is lit using a match, lighter, or other device. As it ignites, colored s
