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Stars


Foxfire87

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Can any star be a cut star? I dont have tools to make stars by any other method. Some easy beginner stars? I already know of tiger tails and chrysanthemum, but I like to write down the formulas so theyre there when I'm ready to play around with something new. Also, if I purchase a star plate, can it only be used with a press? Or if I buy a plate can it be used with a vise or by ramming with a mallet? Just seems like it will take me a while to purchase the plate, then I need a press. So if there's a way to make them without a press for a while?
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Many stars can be cut, But glitters tend to fail if they ever get too wet so you can't cut them as cutting tends to be a wet process.

 

Look at star rollers and star pumps. The star pump is probably the cheapest star maker BUT it only makes one size.

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Thanks for the information, I had some trouble finding a smaller pump as most seemed to be 5/8 and larger, just found every size possible from woody's, ordered a 3/8 pump. So now I'll study up on using it until it arrives, any good articles I could start with?
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Star rollers are good for stars by the thousand, and good for colour changing stars. but it's a technique you have to learn with several pounds of comp. Plates are good for stars of one size when you have a press, but you make several at a time. Pumps are usually for larger sizes because you only make one at a time.

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Thanks, that well explains the different methods as far as production. I purchased a 3/8 pump, I know I'll get frustrated eventually when I cant crank them out fast enough, but it will work for now, especially the price was very affordable compared to the roller and plates I priced. But I guess this is also a good way for a newbie to start. Thanks again for the info
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The book "Fireworks, Principles and Practice" by Ronald Lancaster, available through Abe Books, lists lots of star comps and suggests whether they should be cut, pumped etc.

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Make pellets, using a siringe, cut off the head of it and use it like a comet pump not the best but works, IMO all stars can be cut stars.
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