Because I hail from the great (read: fireworks-friendly) state of Missouri, where we have an amateur exemption to making fireworks, I have been making my own pyrotechnics for the past 5+ years. Nothing destructive (beyond the fireworks burning), and a lot of fountains is the usual venue. I don't have pictures of much else besides fountains, but I hope to fix that problem with the next fourth of July. I used to list these fountains depicted below next to their compositions, but that's a really bad idea on a university website, so all you've got to look at are the pics.

Most are approximately 1/2" in diameter, and between 1 and 3" tall, each with a casing wound of Kraft paper. Some are rammed, others are just dumped in (tableau style). Almost all are initiated through visco fuse and a small amount of black powder; the chokes are bentonite clay and drilled carefully by hand. The construction of fireworks is dangerous and in some states (like Kalifornia) illegal, and so should not be attempted by the inexperienced or in areas where it is illegal. The safest way to begin working pyrotechnics is under the supervision of an experienced pyrotechnician. If you are interested in trying pyro compositions, know what you are doing and the associated dangers before attempting it. Finally, in no way shape or form is this website or its creator liable for any injury, property damage or death caused by anyone attempting to recreate anything seen here. Pyrotechnics can be very entertaining and beautiful, but are often abused by those who are not cautious. I have had no injuries from fireworks on the fourth of July where I set these off, and it's because my friends and I are always safe with them (and never drunk).