Round Ball Shells from Zero to Hero

Round ball shells are a staple of American display fireworks and a point of rich pride and tradition in Japan. With perfectly spherical breaks, the basic shape of a flower is created. Adding additional stars and effects give multiple petals, and even elaborate color changes as the display unfolds in the sky. This seminar takes the participant on a journey from simple single petal designs through ever larger and far more elaborate effects. We begin with the basic anatomy of a round ball shell, and work up from there. We discuss star rolling using the Toro method, star sizing, how to make burst charge and calculations for lift / timing. We use traditional Japanese construction techniques including total isolation of components with tissue paper, and the use of forms to create a negative cavity directly inside the burst charge for more even and symmetrical breaks. This is not a demo, but rather a series of visuals while we discuss construction technique, design philosophy, and walk you through our decision making process as we plan and execute a project. By the end of this seminar, the participant should have a solid understanding of Japanese round shell construction and be able to make effective decisions around lift, burst and timing.