This article was taken from the July 2011 issue of Wired magazine. Be the first to read Wired's articles in print before they're posted online, and get your hands on loads of additional content by subscribing online.
Apart from sparklers, the only commercial fireworks safe to hold are deeply disappointing indoor varieties, which look like glowing dog mess. But you can make an impressive handheld fireball with alcohol and cotton.
COTTON ON
You'll need a piece of 100 per cent cotton (it doesn't melt) about 5 x 12cm, scissors, a needle, about 60cm of cotton string -- make sure it's not combined with polyester, which will burn -- and rubbing alcohol (isopropyl is good).
ROLL IT INTO A BALL
Roll the cotton strip into a ball, making sure there are no flaps. Try not to make it too tight as it will stop the alcohol soaking in. Thread a needle and push the string through the end piece of cotton to the other side. Tie a knot in the end.
SECURE THE BALL
Wrap the thread around the cotton ball, making sure any loose flaps are tied down. It needs to be tight but not too tight otherwise it won't burn for long. Once you've reached the end of the string, tuck it under to avoid loose ends.
JUST ADD ALCOHOL
Take the alcohol and soak the ball for a few seconds -- you don't want any to drip out of the ball when it's squeezed. Wash any fluid off your hands. Light the ball, making sure not to let it sit in one spot. To extinguish, close your hand.
This article was originally published by WIRED UK
