Fire Arts Education and Equipment's topics - tribe.net

Grip tape question

2008-07-25T21:22:18Z

I have just enough left over aluminum tubing to make a set of swinging fire clubs (ala that awesome french video that got posted a little while back. What would I do without the internets?).

My design was going to be to have dowel running through the entire tube (which are approx 8" in length) and a little out one end. This excess dowel I was going to wrap in grip tape, for fear of the tube heating up the glue and doing bad things to my hands.

I have an old burn mark from borrowing a pair of staves from someone who had a friend make for her. This person thought it was a good idea to use gaffers tape, or something similar, on some metal that heated up quickly. So I have a pavlovian caution about these things (and using tools made by people who aren't experienced). Then I saw these: http://www.trickconcepts.com/prod-Chuck_Torch-11.aspx which looks like it has grip tape running to right up under the wick.

So I figured I'd solicit some thoughts while I wait for parts to show up in the mail. Any takers?

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 3 replies

Bamboo fire staff?

2008-07-24T14:44:42Z

I found a really long bamboo pole cleaning crap out of the basement that was left there by the last tenants. The pole is really straight and the tapering is minimal. I really want to cut it down and make a pair of staves, but there are two obvious concerns:

1. Will it stand up to the heat? I know Bamboo deals with fire well enough, but how well? Is there a recommended way for testing this?

2. How to affix the wicks? Bamboo, I believe, splinters like a sunuvabitch, so I think drilling is rather out.

Any help would be appreciated.

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 9 replies

Fire Sword Construction Tutorial

2008-07-22T01:21:16Z

http://www.thedeathknight.com/Misc/FireSword/How_To_Make_A_Fire_Sword.htm

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 2 replies

how to attach wick to fans?

2008-07-21T06:27:11Z

I am making fire fans and have a few ideas on how to attach the wick to the fans, but would love some advice from people who have done this before. I prefer the fans with 5 wicks rather than one long flame. If there is anyone willing to share a method I would appreciate it so much! I searched for links on how to make fire fans and did not find any, if one exists please post.
Gracias!!!!!!!!!!!

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 7 replies

Fire Fans...

2008-07-15T16:34:41Z

I need to get some. Any recomendations? I won't be using them much so less expensive and lighter is preferred.

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 16 replies

making staves

2008-07-14T18:45:22Z

I am in the process of making aluminum staves and could only find 6063 aluminum, not 6061. I am going to make them anyway, does anyone think they will be less fabulous, functional, strong???? what is the difference, Hardness?
Thanks, Stephanie

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 4 replies

contact staff

2008-07-12T19:33:08Z

im trying to make a contact staff now but i dont know how well its going to work. Does anyone know a good place to buy a contact staff. If u have any info on it plz reply ty.

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 2 replies

New NY Fire tribe - Hudson Valley Fire

2008-07-11T16:55:15Z

http://tribes.tribe.net/hudsonvalleyfire
anyone welcome.
for those pyros who aren't quite in NYC, and not that far Upstate NY.
hope to see some of ya there...

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 0 replies

Fire Fans on ebay

2008-07-10T08:45:01Z

I am selling my fire fans v. cheaply on eBay: one large pair of angel wing-style ones, and one smaller pair of quarter-circle ones. There were originally bought from FireTrickConcepts (USA) and Firetoys (UK).

The link is here:
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=130237645407
and here:
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=130237646702
If this post is against the rules, my apologies and please remove it.
Thank you.

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 0 replies

Best way to spin off Fire Snakes

2008-07-01T16:54:07Z

Hi All,
My friend just bought his first set of snakes and he needs to know how to spin them off. The one way I've heard to spin them off is to use a paint can with lots of holes in the bottom then suspend that over a larger bucket (holding the handles together) so the fuel falls into the bigger bucket.

Does anyone have any other suggestions? I would like to get a set of snakes, too, and I want to know the best way to spin them off safely and not get fuel all over.

Also, I'm seen people that just tried to let the excess fuel evaporate but I'm not comfortable with.

Any input would be greatly appreciated.

Much Thanx,
G-Nee

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 13 replies

SuperFuel

2008-06-28T00:36:38Z

As I was going over fuel choices for a fire eating class I taught a few weeks ago, someone mentioned a different kind of white gas. She said that Coleman's adds certain chemicals to prevent rusting and what have you in camping gear (like stoves) but this "SuperFuel" is a filtered form of the same white gas. I would like your opinions on this fuel. Is it a safer, less toxic alternative? Does it make any difference? Has anyone used this before? The URL I received for the fuel belongs to a store that is nowhere near to where I live so I have not managed to get my hands on some to try it out nor have I found an MSDS. Any and all information would be greatly appreciated.

http://www.rei.com/product/721999

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 9 replies

How Many Spotters?

2008-06-11T02:51:57Z

This is a debate that's been raging since before we started NAFAA. I don't think we'll ever get on good solution, mostly because everyone has different ideas, and most of them are hard to easily codify. For example, here's how I feel about it.

Spotters and the need for them vary widely depending on several factors, including: number of performers, the skill level of those performers, the flammability of the surroundings, the proximity of the audience, the availability to the audience (ie could one of them stand up and walk right over to the stage or is there a barrier), the frequency of the act previously performed, the likelihood of new moves or jackassery, and the familiarity with the tool in question.

Lots of factors. Let's look at a few examples.
New spinner (not first time lighting up), practiced tool, medium confidence, trying newish things. 1:1 ratio of spotters.
New spinner, first time lighting up any fire - at least two spotters, preferably 4, one with extinguisher.
Anyone, spinning a substantially new tool (not a slight modification, but something really new) - upwards of 4 spotters With extinguishers.

Pro spinner, just practicing, strong tool knowledge - no reason not to be 1:1
Pro spinners, small group >4, just practicing, no flammables in area - 1 spotter is fine
Pro spinners, med group (4-8), just practicing, nfia, 2 spotters
Pro spinners, small stage with drapes and other hazards, small group - 2 spotters (w/ext.)
Pro spinners, small stage with drapes and other hazards, small group, alcohol crowd - 2 spotters (w/ext.), 2 guards
Pro spinners, small stage with drapes and other hazards, small group, alcohol crowd (restrained behind barrier - 2 spotters (w/ext.)

Novice spinners, small group, just practicing, nfia - 2 spotters on either side of act
Novice spinners, med group (4-8), just practicing, nfia- 3-4 spotters
Novice spinners, small stage with drapes and other hazards, small group - 2-3 spotters (w/ext.)

I once ran across a code that said you needed one spotter for EACH FLAME on stage. That meant that a group of 5 girls with fire fingers required 50 spotters. Thing is, the code was written for 50s belly dancers who were fond of balancing burning bowls on their heads.

The problem is trying to briefly and clearly codify what spotters, how many, and when. Anything short and simple, like 1 per flame or 1 per performer or 1 per show, isn't taking in the wide variance of fire performance. 1 per flame - silly in the case of fire fingers. 1 per performer - silly in the case of many people with one small attached device like a palm torch or candle. 1 per show - silly for most shows with more than a couple of people; let's face it, one spotter simply can't track 24 people no matter how large or small their flames are.

Given that the performer should be reasonably well-trained before going up in front of an audience, I think we can work with something like this:
"Any act with rehearsed performers 1 spotter per 4 performers plus one if in front of an audience, plus one if flammables are present."
This assumes sufficient restraint on the audience whether it's social (like at a black tie affair), with guards (bouncers at a bar), or barricades.

-So, 5 people on a stage with drapes, just practice - 3 spotters (one for the venue, two for the performers)
-same thing with an audience - 4 spotters
-6 people open area, no flammables, just practicing - 2 spotters
-3 people open area, nfia, audience - 2 spotters
unfortunately, it gets silly for the solo performer, in front of an audience, on a draped stage: 3 spotters.
So we can add "not to exceed total number of performers" or something.

I open the floor....

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 24 replies

Ultra Pure issures?

2008-06-08T23:27:40Z

So recently my group bought U.P. Lamp Oil from 2 sources in 2 states, and are having issues with both. The burns are really dirty, and I don't mean a tad sooty, I mean covered in it, the way straight Kero would. It's way smokier than usual when put out too, as if it wasn't enough before.

Anyone else had troubles with it lately? It was bought from 2 places that would have had them for a long while, but I've never seen it go bad. Is this possible? Ted?

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 4 replies

flower sticks???

2008-06-08T22:24:57Z

Any suggestions on how to make them??? Thanx.... PeAcE~

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 4 replies

fuel depot design

2008-06-05T17:28:01Z

I've posted some pix of the fuel depot that I set up at Burning Flipside '08. This was a pretty successful design.

Not pictured are the puck lights on the back side used to illuminate the soaking tanks, or the warning posters on the front side. The barricade design is a simple variation on one used by Chad Bennet. This stood up in wind gusts up to 40 mph without being staked. It's a sheet of 1/2" plywood cut into two equal sections that taper from 4' wide at the bottom to 3' wide at the top, which are then hinged together. The cutouts for carrying handles should really be located lower, about halfway down.

Those soaking tanks are 6-gallon "oily waste cans." They're designed to be fire-resistant, and they worked: the fuel depot was downwind of the effigy and pyrotechnics on burn night, and embers fell directly on it without incident. The cans pictured are plastic; they're also available in metal, and that might be a better option, as the metal design looks like it would sit more stably on uneven ground, and could even be staked down if need be. The size of the cans means you can have a lot of people soaking their wicks simultaneously, which came in handy for the fire procession. The lids are self-closing. They don't make an airtight seal, and we probably lost some white gas to evaporation.

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 0 replies

more about insurance

2008-06-05T08:27:08Z

I've read old posts, I understand clowns of usa (or whatever they're called now) is the standard and I understand it's better to have than need...

I'm interested to hear from people who have *needed* the insurance, to find out if it actually came thru. Or maybe wiggled their way out of coverage?

Tell tell

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 18 replies

How to make 3D death stars?

2008-05-31T18:10:23Z

I want some of these but will be damned if I spend $400+ for them...

http://www.homeofpoi.com/shop/productDetails/Pair-of-3D-DeathStar-oval-twist-FIRE-POI

Anyone know how these are made and can give a decent guide?

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 31 replies

liability insurance in europe

2008-05-29T17:52:16Z

Hi, I am looking for insurance that covers fire performers in europe. I check with "www.clownsoftheus.com" but they only cover for performence in north america.

I have search the www without success...

anyone could help?

thank you

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 6 replies

Looking for a propane fire cannon

2008-05-28T18:34:06Z

A while back I found a link to a web site that sold propane fire cannons,could some one direct me to some vendors or some one who make's and sell's these. I would like to get a set of small ones that could do diffrent kinds of effects incremental bursts or fire rings? any help would be appreciated.
Will.

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 1 reply

Crucible Fire Fest ticket question...

2008-05-28T18:23:11Z

does anyone know how much the tix will be?
I can't seem to find any info other than memberships on their site....

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 2 replies

cannon ball poi

2008-05-25T23:45:39Z

does anyone know how to make a cannon ball poi? i need to make one that is relatively large (compared to what is available from trick concepts).... i think i have a basic idea of how to make it, but any instruction or advice would be very useful!

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 7 replies

monkey fist question

2008-05-24T02:59:36Z

I have been reading up on monkey fist construction, and I am confused as to what would work best for the core. I was planning on constructin standard 4 byte fists and was wondering what some of you would suggest for a core?

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 6 replies

Maybe a stupid question

2008-05-20T19:08:46Z

I am attending a festival about 4 hours away from my home. I need white gas. I was just going to bring it up with me, and then I was reading the NAFSA guidelines and it recommended not to transport white gas. The problem is the location is pretty rural and I am not sure white gas will be available where I am heading.
Has anyone traveled with white gas before?
Is there any recommendations for safety?

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 12 replies

Fire Contact and Moisturizing Lotions?

2008-05-19T22:26:45Z

So, I am aware of the fact that some lotions can trap heat and cause burns to be more severe. A fire fetish book I once read said you should always bathe/shower before fire play for this reason. My question is, what is it in the lotions that cause this effect?

Reason I ask is because I have a gig tonight which will involve lots of fire eating and body contact, however, I currently have dry/flaky skin on my chest which I would rather not put on display with my act. Are there any moisturizing lotions I may use which will not effect my performance but still get rid of the flakiness?

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 9 replies

Rosebrand Duvy

2008-05-19T07:49:38Z

I saw someone else post about Rosebrand in another thread and I have to throw it out there that Rosebrand, after purchasing 5 or more 50 yard rolls over the past few yeas, has changed their distributor or something and recently sent me a roll of 16 oz duvy that felt more like cardboard than fabric. Completely useless for our application. They allowed me to return it but made me pay the shipping in both directions, plus a 25% restocking fee so I was out around $100 (yes, I spoke with the management numerous times and they would not budge). I had a friend in the theatre biz who has an account with them get the next roll for me, and they sent him the same crap- he had to send it back as well. They finally sent him the product that I'm used to, but it was a serious hassle and I lost time and money in the process.
Beware.

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 1 reply

Fire retatdant for flammable clothing

2008-05-19T02:28:15Z

Can anyone link me with the best stuff to use to treat flammable clothing to make it non flammable.
I've never used the stuff before so I"m not sure what the best stuff is.
thanks & peace,
Denise Denise

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 3 replies

Fire Safety manual

2008-05-18T09:03:58Z

The 4th edition of my manual, now for spinners as well as jugglers, is available as a free pdf on the front page of www.foreworks.com. A 28-page printed copy is also available.

There are a number of sites, usually of vendors, that have safety articles or manuals for fire players. It might be a good thing to have them all listed in one place (or have I missed a section that you already have, again, Tedward?)

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 4 replies

Duvetane vs. wet towels

2008-05-17T03:52:17Z

For years our troupe has used the wet towel method for safety and extinguishing tools. I recently purchased duvytane (I can't remember how to spell this) and we have started using it in addition to the towels. As far as I can tell it works just as well and would eliminate the need for water buckets, wet moldy towels (when you forget to take them out) as well as cold hands of safeties. Is there any reason we should have wet towels f we have plenty of Duvatane?

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 29 replies

Fire Eating Wicks??

2008-05-16T17:26:03Z

Does anyone know where I can purchase a roll of wicks for fire eating torches relatively cheap???

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 1 reply

What is fire wick?!

2008-05-08T21:58:36Z

For the holy crap of me, I can not pin this down. I have been trying to locate a mill in which I can purchase huge quantities of fire dancing wick and rope. I am having lots of trouble because I do not have all the information I need:
What is the blend used to make wick?
What is the most effective blend (ex aramid: nomex/kevlar)?
What are the terms used by manufacturers for tape wick that we use to fire dance with?

I understand if some people are hesitant to post this in public to protect their own interests, but please, I have been stressed out about this for a long time and I need some guidance.
Please message me if you can help!
Much love.

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 3 replies

fire resistant clothing for safetys

2008-05-08T15:29:57Z

http://www.advantagegear.com/index.php?get=sub_cat&cat=Flame+Resistant+Apparel+and+Raingear&cat_id=20&page_title=Flame+Resistant+Apparel+and+Raingear

found this site and thought that I should spread the word about it here. most of the clothing is in navy blue but some are available in black.

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 5 replies

Copper tubing as an end cap on a staff?

2008-05-05T13:06:32Z

I was wondering if anyone has tried putting a 1" copper plumbing end piece on the end of an alluminum/TI staff? It fits really well, and would be easy to secure in place. I am curious about it. It would protect the dowels from the flame (metal tape wears away at some point) as well as the end of the staff from getting beat up when dropped.

Plus since it adds weight at the very end of the staff it increases centripetal momentum in the most efficient way possible. The further from the center, the less weight you need to produce more swing momentum. I use 8-12" dowel, and have tried staffs with 1/2" by 3" lag bolts and didn't really like it that much.

I am also thinking of putting 2- 4"of wicks to make 8"s of fire, at about a 1-1"2 to 2" thickness. Lots of fire good, especially cause I am 6'4" and end up using staffs that are 65" to 70"s. I almost need the 8" wick.

The only fear is that the copper will for sure conduct a lot of heat, and if it comes in contact with skin it might burn very very quickly. Most of the cap would be under the wick, except for the part over the tip of the staff, and I don't seem to catch myself with that very much, so I think it might be low risk. Though really shitty it is did stay on you for any length.

Any thoughts, feedback? Has anyone tried this or heard of folks trying it?

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 13 replies

fire dancing jobs

2008-05-05T06:53:07Z

you know alot of my time is devoted to spinning poi... where would it be possible for me to find a fire dancing job, if one at all?

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 3 replies

flaming tetherball

2008-05-01T04:28:19Z

so this time around at PDF, our camp is planning on putting together a flaming tetherball. here's our thoughts on how to construct. discuss, critique, whaddya think?

cast iron outdoor umbrella stand/base, heavy as hell. it comes with a threaded base tube that's about 12' high, and comes with TWO locking thumbscrews on the cylinder.

with a decorative filigree at the base, I can pass a metal strap through the stand and secure it to a larger base, which is where a 2X2 or 3X3 plywood sheet comes in.

a 3/4 inch (maybe 1"...I'll have to check my supplies) diameter pipe, about 8 or 9 feet tall.

Pair that with the 3/4 (or 1") inch iron endcap with a swiveling eyelet

homeofpoi's gorilla poi with the longest chains: 33 inches each

i'd connect the 2 chains to have the following setup:
poi-chain-chain-eyelet, so a 5'6" max radius

perhaps alternate the poi each burn
we plan on burning off any excess dripping fuel or blotting before commencing play
we'll supply leather gloves and ideally some sort of head protection
play: catch the poi and swing it around. perhaps a point system will develop
yes, this could whack someone in the head
i plan on limiting who can play with the common sensible rules for general fire play
and we do have someone in the medical field camping with us who'll provide a kick ass first aid kit and stitching skills if needed
i plan on having a safety station nearby with water, damp towels, the first aid kit
and, of course, having a clearly marked fuel dump further away

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 4 replies

Question about Fuels

2008-04-28T18:30:46Z

What burns hotter - white gas or alcohol?

If I was using thin rope snakes (1/4 inch) and spinning them, what fuel would give the ropes a flame that would more likley be seen by an audience while being spun.

If I dipped that same rope snake in a fuel and lit the end, what fuel would have the fastest travel time up the rope?

Obviously, I'm not using gasoline for any fire arts. But if anyone has any knowledge on these questions, I'd appreciate the thoughts.

Thanks so much!

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 1 reply

Tundra fire extinguishers

2008-04-23T01:06:05Z

Anyone have any experience with these? Are they just as safe as typical abc extinguishers?

http://www.firstalert.com/tundra_fire_extinguishing_spray.php

It seems like a great addition for my fuel dump. It's about a fraction of the weight and more compact, but not sure yet if it's as effective. thanks

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 3 replies

Fire toys and flying

2008-04-22T22:11:15Z

Hello everyone. I'm taking a trip this week and wood like to bring my fans with me. If I pack it in my stow away luggage will airport security have any problem with this? Anyone have any experiences? Thanks.

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 8 replies

fire eating/breathing instruction or classes?

2008-04-18T11:57:21Z

anyone know of anything in or near portland/seattle?

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 3 replies

Insurance reminder

2008-04-12T07:01:37Z

April 25th is coming soon
http://www.clownsoftheus.com/

Get on it.

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 0 replies

Dirty Wicks

2008-04-11T01:47:58Z

I have zero experience spinning fire and I just got myself a set of spinning fire clubs a little while ago. I've been working on basic moves but tonight I was outside doing yard work and had the music going and once I finished I started dancing around with the clubs (without lighting up). It was crazy fun and I can't wait until I am comfortable enough to light them.

In the meantime, though, I kept dropping the clubs in the dirt I had dug up over the day's work and started wondering if some dirt or mud on your wicks is a big deal. Should I cover the wicks with saran wrap and a rubber band? Or not worry about it? I don't imagine a little dirt is any different than soot, but what do you guys say?

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 8 replies

Fire gel, Water gel, fuel gels?

2008-04-09T01:50:05Z

I was wondering if anyone has had experience with making fuel gels and or making, using Fire gel / water gel?

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 5 replies

Colored flames and Fire Eating

2008-04-04T21:46:35Z

I am wanting to do an act involving eating fire with colored flames. The flames are created using denatured alchohol and boric acid. Anyone have advice on any danger here? Is this okay?

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 23 replies

FIRESTAFF - how to do ?

2008-03-31T21:22:18Z

Maybe an old question for you all - but for me it´s pretty new !
Can anybody tell me something about a good + cheap way to create me a staff/firestaff (Parts of a bike ? Or a hospital crutch ?)
And what do i need to put on the ends/cups ...?
Thanks a lot !

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 5 replies

chemical in a can to extinguish fire props?

2008-03-31T03:57:59Z

First off, a sincere apology if this has been posted. My tribe searches on this subject have been fruitless.

I am looking for a type of chemical or substance to have in an open can. During a performance, I would be able to simply wave a flaming poi over this open can, and it would instantly extinguish the flame. Ideally the wicks would not be damaged by this chemical.

This would make it easier for me to switch fire props duing a song (as opposed to passing them off to a fire safety, and having to fetch a new prop).

I am not a chemist, and this substance might not exist (or may be too toxic and/or expensive to be practical).

Thank you all in advance for your help.

Gratefully,
Michael

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 6 replies

anarchic fire jams

2008-03-30T09:10:28Z

how do y'all propose enforcing safety protocols on large, chaotic fire jams where the majority of participants have basically zero safety consciousness?
http://tribes.tribe.net/portlandfire/thread/618fd2be-8c65-48f7-a998-9f339b955f53

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 16 replies

Fire Performance Insurance

2008-03-26T23:00:41Z

(this is a crosspost from BM fire conclave - looking for a wider audience range!)

Well, Controlled Burn is running into the issue of "how much insurance do we need? Where do we get it?" So I figured I'd post up here to see what the various groups in the BM fire conclave think.

Here's some of the issues - due to high liability of our art, many venues we perform at (at least in Reno), would be (somewhat) reassured with hearing that our fire performers are insured. The only place that we've found that provides individual fire performer insurance seems to be Clowns of the US (www.clownsoftheus.com) However, clowns doesn't cover groups, so we're additionally, looking or an insurance company which covers Controlled Burn, Inc. as a whole for general liability, as well as all of its performers, but are having some difficulty. I'd love to find a place that covers our entire troupe for the liability that's inherent in our fire performances...

What are y'all doing for fire performer insurance or fire group insurance?

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 24 replies

Question for club spinners

2008-03-18T21:20:05Z

I've been going to burns for about 4 years now and I think I want to get into fire spinning. I've seen a couple videos of club spinning and I think I'd like to go that route.

For obvious reasons, I want to practice with plain, non-burning clubs before moving up to fire.

I've also been poking around on sites that sell clubs and the like, but these shops are also set up for jugglers. I'm guessing there are differences between juggling clubs and spinning clubs as far as weight and balance goes. Any suggestions as to what I could look for as a "beginner" set of clubs that would prepare me for one day doing it with fire?

Thanks.

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 3 replies

FIRESTICK needed

2008-03-17T18:41:21Z

searching for a firestick - cheap !
berlin-area would be nice ...

bye !

bieger (www.myspace.com/acrodance)

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 1 reply

HANDSTAND RECK NEEDED - URGENTLY !!

2008-03-17T15:21:48Z

if anyone lives near berlin and has got a handstand reck there that him/her doesn´t need anymore please let me know, ok ?
greets
bieger

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 0 replies

Wand construction

2008-03-17T05:06:45Z

I am having trouble finding resources on how to construct a fire wand.
The primary use of the wand would be as the ignition source for breathing, though I would like to be able to eat it also.
If anyone has any links on how to make one, I would appreciate it, all I can find is how to make poi, staff and devil sticks.
Also suggestions on wick size and wand length would be much appreciated.
Thanks,
J

(Forgive me if this has been asked, I have no idea how to search the already posted threads. I tried that little google search box, the only hit returned was something about a wand dripping on someones daughter.)

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 11 replies

any one have a fire cannon schematic?

2008-03-14T18:45:02Z

Hey anyone have a schematic of a fire cannon?

Please PM if you have one you can share

Thanks
Taz

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 1 reply

chucks?

2008-03-12T04:30:22Z

i've been thinkin about makin some fire knumbchucks for a while, and believe it is time. i can't seem to find any useful how-tos or even vids... anyone have any ideas?

guinnie

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 2 replies

99% iso-p removed from shelves?

2008-03-07T15:36:36Z

I have always had a problem finding 99% isopropyl alcohol in my area (SE MI) but it was always stocked at all the local Meijers I ever checked. Recently they have removed the 99% from the shelves, and now only sell 70 and 91. I asked if they could special order the 99%, since they did up until last week have not only a name brand (Reality) but also a generic meijer brand 99%. They said that they weren't allowed to sell it anymore, anyone have any ideas why?

More importantly, anyone know anywhere else I can find it? Perhaps an online retailer? I was getting it at 1.49 per 16oz bottle, I haven't found it nearly that inexpensive online, and can't seem to find it anywhere in other local stores.

Please HELP! :)

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 8 replies

Fire Eating Videos

2008-03-05T22:43:34Z

Anyone have any good fire eating videos? My first search on youtube for "fire eating" turned up very little...

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 35 replies

Fire sword construction

2008-02-29T21:44:52Z

Hey, I just got back from BM and my mind is whirling with new fire ideas...

I got a chance to handle a fire sword for the first time and I'm interested in making my own. How would one go about doing that? How much kevlar is needed to get a decent sized and timed flame?

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 24 replies

Aramid question

2008-02-28T22:28:38Z

So I put together a pair of all kevlar poi recently. For the body, I opted to use 1/2" kevlar rope with an aramid core, thinking the better tensile strength of aramid over fiberglass would be preferable.

After three burns, they work beautifully. However, an inch or two above the head (which is the spot I knew before I put them together I'd need to keep an eye on) the core seems to have hardened. I'm assuming the aramid melted and solidified. I was wondering if (A) this is something I should be terribly worried about, and (B) if fiberglass might have been a better option.

I posted a photo of the poi here:

http://pyro.tribe.net/photos/d29f3a8d-ccb6-4720-8142-44ebdd727c97

You can't see it, but the body runs right into the head and is secured internally.

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 10 replies

LA Fire Guild /SAFFE

2008-02-28T21:54:03Z

Okay, so the quarterly SAFFE meeting has come around (I missed the last one). And we have a whole lot of new stuff to report.

First, I've been looking back over the last couple of years. I've seen show after show with fire extinguishers and spotters. I've been asked "Where's your spotter?" at Burning Man rather than "What's a spotter?". And, in general, I think that there is at least a base level of safety pervasive through the fire arts community, and fewer superstitions. These changes are the very heart of what we really wanted to accomplish with NAFAA back in 2002. So, for a mere 5 years of dedication and cooperation, I think we've done well.

This makes me wonder. Is it time for NAFAA to take a new direction now? Or should we stay that first, best place for info, geared mostly at the new and uniformed. One option to taking a new direction is our second report.

For those who don't know, or don't remember, there is a new guild forming in LA. As far as I know, they haven't officiated a name, but are going by the LA Fire Performer Safety Council. This group formed in response to the request we filled last year for a bullet point list for the SAFFE council. They're new and they're eager.

Most importantly, they've been working with the CA State Fire Marshall and an LA county inspector to develop their own set of codes for local insertion. The county fire marshal has endorsed these documents for broad spectrum community review. I mention this to everyone as these codes could receive statewide or even national attention, particularly wherever filming is done.

The first is an extension of the effort NAFAA made for it's bullet point list. This safety checklist is a DRAFT for peer review. Please send me any comments you have regarding them and I will put them in digest form (anonymously if you like) and forward them to the review members (state, county and guild). You can download them from:
http://www.nafaa.org/checklist.v1.0a.pdf

The second is a proposed, standardized, fire performance permit application. In short, this is what the fire marshal would give to us in order to get the information they need to write a permit. It might be worth the effort to buzz this by the local fire department.
http://www.nafaa.org/permit.app.v1.0a.pdf

And finally, this guild has come up with their own NFPA plug-in set of safety standards. I don't thing the FMs care as much about this, but I'll forward comments to the appropriate council as offered.
http://www.nafaa.org/standards.v1.0a.pdf

As our final point, I have been approached to open a new research project. It seems as though it's time to start digging into the proximate audience issue. Many permits are written with specific audience separations, but the reasons for them are widely varied. One possible source of this separation may be the radiant heat separation rules from the NFPA. So, we're going to take a serious look into audience separation. But we could use any useful ideas regarding hypothesese or approaches. So let me know.

That's all for now. Please send your comments soon.

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 7 replies

fire eating questions

2008-02-25T05:21:31Z

I ate fire the other night for the first time and I have a couple questions about it. First off what are the major risks associated. Im using coleman fuel to burn with and just doing simple stuff right now, basically just extinguishing the flame. I know the major stuff like dont inhale haha but im more wondering about the details. LIke with breathing I know alot of you have almost rituals you do with breathing and rinsing thats more what im interested in. Whats the likely hood of chemical pneumonia with eating fire? And what are the signs that you more experiences eater look for to know its time to stop. I know dry mouth and skin are signs of dehydration and up your chances of burns but what else. One thing I noticed later on in the night after I had quit is I had a head ache and a neck ache. The neck ache could have been from bending my head back and I was spinning poi for a good two hours that night so the fumes may have gotten to me and caused the head ache. any input would be great though!!

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 18 replies

The State of Fire Breathing (xpost)

2008-02-22T20:14:06Z

Here's a little something for beginning fire breathers (or fans) to peep. Not really a complete look at where fire breathing is today, but it's a good start...
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-7443750124345701892&hl=en
(best to let it load first)

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 0 replies

How to buy larger quantities of fuels

2008-02-20T06:36:20Z

I'm writing this post at the suggestion of Tedward after he and I e-mailed back and forth a couple times. It started when I saw a post from Tedward saying that he had a hell of a time getting anyone to sell him 4 gallons of ethyl acetate that he wanted to use as a more "green" fuel.

I'm a sales rep for a chemical distributor on the East Coast, and we supply many of the solvents that may be of interest to fire artists. Apparently, some of you have faced hassles when trying to buy more exotic solvents or buy a larger quantity of solvents (say, a 55-gal drum).

I was surprised because most industrial chemicals are not very strictly regulated and I'm surprised Tedward had such a problem. I told him if someone had called me asking for ethyl acetate, I'd just sell it to them, no questions asked. We got to talking some more and I found out that he had paid over 3 times for his ethyl acetate than what I would have charged him, even accounting for shipping.

So here's a brief rundown of how to find exotic solvents or buy larger quantities of solvents. Keep in mind I am on the sales side of my company and don't directly deal with the regulatory side, though I do brush up against the regulations enough to have a basic understanding. This means that you should verify anything I say about regulations with your local authorities.

1st off, as far as regulations on storing larger quantities of solvents, in my area (New York State), for quantities of a few drums or less, you should probably ask your local fire marshal if there are restrictions on storing inflammables. Keep in mind that many farmers will have bulk tanks storing hundreds of gallons of diesel or gasoline and more and more people are making biodiesel at home, which requires the storage of methanol. So it can be done. Really, in this state, the only places that regulate this seem to be the more dense, urban, areas. Check with your local fire marshal and ask.

The other people you should talk to is whoever insures the property where you'll store the fuel.

So generally speaking, in my experience, if your insurance agent and your local firemen are OK with you having solvents on your property, then you're good to go. It's not until you get into putting in a bulk storage tank that you may run into hassles. Again, though, your area may be different.

That said, what about procuring the solvents themselves?

For that, you find a distributor near you. Start at www.nacd.com . From their main page, go to the "About NACD" menu and choose "Find a Responsible Distributor." The NACD (National Association of Chemical Distributors) is to chemical distributors as SAFFE is to fire artists. NACD members are audited regularly to make sure they are handling their products safely, disposing of them responsibly, etc.. Call an NACD member near you and tell them what you want. If they can't help you, they will know where to refer you.

The quantities of solvent a fire artist is interested in - say 5 gallons up to 200 gallons - are really nothing to get excited about for whoever you talk to. Don't expect them to hunt down certain chemicals. The more specific you can be, the better the chances they'll help you. For instance if someone said to me they wanted a replacement for white gas and only wanted 3 drums, I'd tell them to call me back when they could give me a better description. I don't know what is in white gas and I'm not going to put the effort into researching it on the chance that you'll buy some and then tell me that it's not what you wanted. Then I have the paperwork and hassle of returning product, picking it up, restocking, etc. all for a measly 3 drums. Not going to happen. So my advice is to know what you want ahead of time.

The other thing you can do is ask for a quart sample, which is standard in the industry. They may or may not indulge you. But if you think you have it nailed down, ask for a quart for free (if you're looking to buy multiple drums) and they might give it to you. If you like it, then you buy the product.

If this doesn't help you can call me personally and I'll help you if I can. My company's website is www.fbcchem.com . The smallest container I can ship is 5 gallons, for which you would pay UPS charges which would be $30-45 for a typical pail. If you're anywhere from the Midwest out to the East Coast or New England, I can also do drums for you. Worst case is we have to ship it on a common carrier to you and would cost around $100 in shipping, give or take. Note that shipping rates a PER PALLET, so it costs the same amount to ship 1 drum as it does to ship 4 drums. Really, I can ship drums to you anywhere in the country, but if you're on the West Coast, the freight would probably bust your budget.

To give you an idea, Tedward paid about $80/Gal for his ethyl acetate. I told him I would have sold him a 5-gallon pail for $16.50/gallon + UPS charges. I'd rather not get into pricing specifics because they are always changing (like gasoline), but that gives you a ballpark idea.

If anyone is interested in purchasing solvents in 5-gallons or more, send me a private message and I'll reply with my phone number and e-mail address. Even if you think you may want some in the future, but not now, write to me anyways so at least you can put me in your phone book.

If you have any general questions, post to this thread and I'll answer if I can.

Useful links:

www.nacd.com (to find a chemical distributor near you)
www.fbcchem.com (my company website, go there for a list of products we have)

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 1 reply

Who should I buy kevlar from?

2008-02-19T17:01:25Z

I need 2in kevlar belt and kevlar thread. Who should I get it from?

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 4 replies

Purchasing Bulk White Gas?

2008-02-17T23:54:30Z

Where does one go to purchase white gas in bulk? Lets say 50gal drums?

Storing it will be another issue.

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 11 replies

Isopropyl Alcohol (Sunjel) and coloured flame

2008-02-15T22:27:44Z

Hi all,

I've read a lot on here about using denatured alcohol and various chemicals to produce colored flames. But I'm wondering about Isoporpyl Alochol gel (sunjel) which is used in indoor fireplaces. I'm working on a metal sculpture/fire art piece and I want to use the gel and add some of the chemical agents to create color.

Does anyone have experience with this? Will it work? Safety? etc.

Thanks!
Kristen
http://www.metalphoria.com

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 7 replies

Kero Klean

2008-02-14T16:47:19Z

Any thoughts on this product? Is it 'safe'? I saw some at HomeDepot and wondered if anyone uses it. Can it be mixed with other fuels?

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 7 replies

Ignition device advice needed, activated by impact

2008-02-10T17:44:39Z

Hey ho - I'm going to be doing an archery show pretty soon, and the director and I would like to somehow ignite a sign for our toupe for it (Vau de Vire Society).

I'm kinda thinking some sort of pilot over baloons filled with some flamable airgas, but don't know what I should use - the flame would only need to be sustained long enough to light some kevlar rope soaked in white gas.

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated - thanks!

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 32 replies

Any pyro pyrates in Santa Cruz?

2008-02-08T19:16:40Z

I just relocated to the Santa Cruz area and I need to light the fires once again. Any Pyrates who could use some practice or you know where I may spin freely let me know. Cheers to new beginnings!

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 3 replies

fire arts for money

2008-02-07T21:58:45Z

Hello, I'm sorry if this is not relevant so please delete this post if it does not fit with the community's rules.

My questions:

how long did it take people to become established fire artists/troupes;

can you do it for a living (I don't mean £££, I mean enough to fill your stomach and van) ;

and is there any other advice you would give a budding artist?

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 10 replies

Interested in Fire fans

2008-02-07T20:50:55Z

So who would have thought becoming fascinated with poi
would have lead to interest in other areas?

I've become very interested in Fire fans.
I've read down the links here and noticed - as
i did in searching online - designs widely vary.

Other than technical specifications, I was wondering if
anyone would be willing to give personal opinion or
insight?

Such as what difference are there in some of handles?

Are there any non-obvious factors - or certain particular
aspects you have found useful/impinge?

I'm hoping to learn firefan eventually to both incorporate
into my dancing, as well as spinning movements I've
seen performed.

Any help is much appreciated - Thanks!

~ Faye

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 24 replies

Firehoop staf

2008-01-25T00:20:21Z

so what do you think,just remember this is the first run.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QqsjvkFVwkM

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 17 replies

fire fan artists: I need your advice!

2008-01-23T16:08:08Z

When rotating the fire fan very fast around one finger (I use my middle), how do you stop the fan spinning quickly, sharply and without injury? Applies to both forward and backward. I would love some help!

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 9 replies

Kevlar Thread

2007-12-31T09:24:38Z

I purchased some kevlar thread from amazon.com and it ended up burning right up.
Any suggestions on where to pick up some of the good stuff?
:)
Gabriel

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 6 replies

fire Hat

2007-12-20T18:23:06Z

This is a hand crafted fire prop. Should be used by experience fire artist, with all the necessary fire precaution taken. This hat will hold a flame upon your head.Not sure what the metal structure was originally for but I found it years ago at a thrift store. The metal structure is covered in a layer of black felt and then with a top layer of stretch velvet. The hat should be dampen with water while performing in it. It is sewn to a base cap that will fit snug to the head if it is to large you can tie scarf abound you head to make a snug fit. It id decorated with sequin trim, metal beads and shells. More ornaments can be added if you like. The hat also has tie end that can tie under the neck. The metal dish that will hold the flame can be replaced if ever need by unscrewing and just replacing with another cat food can.
This is the 2nd fire hat I have ever made. It may be the only one around I think the 1st one has be lost.
This is a one of a kind piece and remember when you use this you need to have someone who is watching the flame, You will not be able to see it. This fire hat is 75.00 plus shipping. you may see photos in my pics

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 1 reply

Jump Rope!

2007-12-20T18:17:19Z

So, I built myself a fire-jump rope. It's very simple in it's design, but adjustable for length and what not... but what I do is very simple...

Any ideas on what I can do with it? Aside from jumping that is... but that gets dangerous sometimes... Heh.

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 12 replies

BRAND NEW (unlit) FIRE STAFF FOR SALE (4' x 4" wicks) -- BAY AREA (or I can ship if neccessary)

2007-12-13T01:04:35Z

Hi!
I just purchased for my partner, his first fire staff. However, upon receiving it we decided it was just a bit too small for his 6'4" frame. It's from the company "Fire By Riz" based out of Florida (www.firewhip.com). We have the 4 foot with 4 inch wicks and he needs a 5 footer. I can't return it as it was specially made but I bought it for $65 and I'm willing to let go of it for $50. We haven't lit it whatsoever, it was only played with for about 30 minutes today when we came to this conclusion. There are a few grass stains on the Kevlar but nothing serious at all. It's made out of aluminum and is completely hollow. If there is anyone in the bay area looking for an un-used fire staff please contact me by email immediately - Shoshi.A.S@Gmail and I can arrange to drop it off wherever you like ASAP. If you are not in the bay area but would like it shipped to you, let me know and I'll do that as well but I'll have to add on S/H charges. It would help me out SO much if someone could take this off my hands as I am really disappointed and would like to get him another one soon. Any suggestions of other places to buy from would be greatly appreciated as well.
Thanks!!!!
Shoshi

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 0 replies

flower sticks

2007-11-23T15:41:20Z

I play with flower sticks (similar to devil sticks), but I want to play with something on fire.
I know there are fire batons about the same size and weight as the main stick. Any advice on how to make one? Aluminum rod with kevlar wicks at the ends? How would the wicks be attached to the rod? What can I wrap it with to make a higher friction surface?
What about the hand sticks? Is the plastic cover on standard sticks likely to melt?
thanks
-Craig

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 11 replies

Collapsible Staves...

2007-11-21T15:50:47Z

I am needing to make a collapsable fire staff for travelling around the planet and around my city, my 5 ft staff is just a bit too much to carry. Ive seen some that were the click-lock type (where it slides in and a button clicks out) and these seem really shakey. I've seen one I think that is similar to Trick Concepts design where the staff slides in and theres a compression-type device that locks the two outer torches onto the center piece...

Does anyone know where I can get these parts... or have any good ideas I can try? I would just buy a staff from trick concepts, but I'm a broke-performer and can't afford that right now.

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 16 replies

Seeking Lessons in The SF Bay Area...

2007-11-15T21:44:34Z

... That aren't going to cost an arm and a leg. I've been meaning to learn fire poi a bit better (I already use fire fans). But I find that I need someone to specifically show me what to do in order to get the hang of it. Unfortunately videos and books don't quite help out enough. I'm more of a hands on learner.

Does anyone know of anyone who can help that isn't going to charge $50+ for lessons in the SFBA?

Thank you.

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 2 replies

Yet Another Case For Sobriety ! .... Read On .

2007-11-14T21:55:00Z

Ok Peops you all know how we love to put on a great Show for ya so here is the reason why we are not doing our Gig @ Webster Hall tonight .

Last week the Club hired a different Fire Performer by the name of Ted - E , well as it turns out this person did his Show there and while doing the Show he managed to Burn one of the Customers Arms with a piece of Flash Paper ! , well how the hell do you manage to do that ! ? , anyway the Fire Department was called and the Ambulance Showed up and guess what ? our Show got Cancelled ! , why ? because this is what happens when you hire a Performer that is irresponsible and obviously cannot handle his own Show so this just makes all of the good Fire People look bad and does not set a good prescedent for those of us that have worked so hard to make our Shows both Safe and Enticing for all to see .

So here you have it when one Person screws up we all suffer and yes the Guilty by association syndrome is quite alive and well these days and hopefully everyone can learn a valuable lesson from this and that is ...DON'T DRINK OR DO OR SMOKE DRUGS BEFORE YOU DO A SHOW WITH FIRE ! , you will only hurt others , yourself and make the rest of us suffer because of your stupidity ! , this may not happen today , tomorrow or even in a month but more sooner than later it will happen if you do not have a clear Head . Please everyone let this be a wakeup call and to be carefull because when you are in the Public Eye everyone is watching YOU ! and YOU are responsible for your own actions ! , Ted -E didn't even have the Balls to come forward and say hey I screwed up instead all he said was don't tell anybody about what happened and this does not solve the problem and yes I hate to have to mention names here but this person has done this before and it's time to bring his name out to the Public and to make an example out of him .

See You All When We Get Back From Burning Man ... Vlad .

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 17 replies

california unincorporated fire code

2007-11-14T20:33:23Z

I put a copy of the the borrego springs Fire code which is extremely close to the california 1102.4 fire code

So a month back I was was in charge of fire for a dcom. we didn't get our permit for the event basically because we didn't give them enough time.
that's was unavoidable at the time and easily avoidable the next time.

in the discussion about what we were and weren't allowed to do the fire department sent us the fire code, which in my reading of it should have allowed us to do fire tools. the on site fire men who were acting under very tight orders said no, because they don't have spark arrestors. there seems to be a discrepancy between items 1 and 3 and the firemen claimed that it was because the poi and staffs and such don't have spark arrestors. I could have accepted the no, based on rule 6, but claiming rule 3 left me more upset that I would have guessed.

now I didn't push them on this as I am trying to build a long term relationship with that group, but it was a very unsettling decision, especially in light of every other fire marshal telling me that there was no problems with doing fire spinning out there and that the law didn't cover that activity.

any thoughts?

Tedwar, you might want to pull a copy for california fire code 1102.4 for Nafaa.

Taz

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 3 replies

Indoor Venues

2007-11-14T18:04:30Z

Hi All,
I am curious how you approach indoor venues with fire performance. We haven't had a whole lot of luck with people saying yes to indoor fire, mostly due to safety issues. Of the shows that you've done, how were you able to convince the indoor venues, and their insurance companies, that you could do the show safely? We are all insured with Clowns of the US.

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 4 replies

Meteor Construction.. wieghted wicks

2007-11-11T01:28:06Z

I've been thinking about meteor construction, and its dilemmas. The primary problem is that I don't want too much fire for my first burnable meteor, the thing is scary enough without fuel. This is a problem due to the fact that heavier meteors are just easier to spin, the more rotational momentum the better.

So, here's the quandary: how can we maximize the wick weight without having a huge amount of surface area (ie. flames), and not use a metal core for the wick that would 1) rust and 2) cause more damage than fire ever could on impact. I've got an idea or two, but I'd like to hear what other people have before I throw them out there.

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 10 replies

help

2007-10-25T02:10:55Z

Hey all. Anyone know someone/where in the New Jersy/New York/Philly area I can get some duvateen by next saturday (ordering online might take too long)? I'm going to be one of two people spinning at a friend's party and I'd like to have some extra duvateen on hand. For obvious reasons.

Thanks in advance.

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 2 replies

UL Listed Fire Tools???

2007-10-16T04:03:23Z

I spoke with a captain in the DC Fire Marshall's office today asking about permits for indoor fire performances.

He mentioned concerns about flinging fuel off fire tools then said that as part of the permit process he would like to see "cut sheets" on the tools and that the tools we use would have to be UL listed.

"Cut sheets" are basic information about the tools, how much fuel they'll hold, what kind of fuel, that sort of thing. This kind of information is requested in the NFPA 160 so I am prepared to answer these questions. I've prepared a permit proposal per NFPA 160 and NAFAA guidelines so that is pretty straightforward now.

The "UL Listed" fire tools threw me for a loop. He said that there are fire torches out there that have been UL Listed and these are what are used by others that have received fire permits.

I'm trying to figure out if he is feeding me a line or this is real.

I've never heard of these, I couldn't find any references googling, and wondered if anyone else out there has more information. I expect that if they do exist, it will be for juggling torches.

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 38 replies

fire poi in the media

2007-10-15T23:35:23Z

i'm compiling all the poi i've seen in media, movies what have you, as of yet i have Vanity Fair, The convenant, and the scratch and sniff episode of Farscape(best episode ever!) so anyone spy any? come on tedward!

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 48 replies

more advanced poi/staff moves?

2007-10-14T23:26:38Z

i am looking to become a more skilled poi and staff artist, but dont know where to begin. i know the basics and little more. i feel comfortable with what i know and am ready to go beyond this. where do i start? what other movements are there...? what are good resources for learning? are there any practice videos around?

thank you for any help.

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 8 replies

Creating Fire Wands/Fingers

2007-10-14T14:10:15Z

Hey,

I was browsing the world wide web for some ideas on making fire wands. I haven't really found to many ideas, just the typical spiral wire on the fingers..... however, I have seen those fall off on occasion. Can anyone link me to a site wher eI might be able to find more ideas? Or can someone share some successfull ideas?

Much Love
Jenya

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 2 replies

On spotting and shilling

2007-10-11T09:15:06Z

Some time back, there was a thread discussing the visibility of spotters. Many felt that they should stay out of the way and even blend in with the crowd. But others did not. And one statement stuck in my mind; it went something like 'I bet you'd double your ticket sales if your spotters had an extinguisher in each hand and a flashing red light on their heads and they got all tensed up every time you did a big trick...' or something like that.

Well, I've been storing that remark ever since, waiting for the exact opportunity when I was spotting, not performing; in a large crowd, but one not already jaded to fire performance (like BMan); and where I had free reign to do pretty much as I pleased. Well, I had that opportunity and, more importantly, i found, I had 4 in a row.. just last night.

We have a gig at a local theme park, about as big as Disneyland. We're doing 4 shows a night, pretty much every night until Halloween. The first couple of days our front spotter kind of hid outside the limelight while the soundtrack bellowed "do not try this at home!" and such at the beginning of the show, and then only moved to retrieve tossed wipe rags or the occasional juggling torch. Also, on those days the performers noticed the crowds were deplorably silent during the show.

So, the first thing we tried was to plant a mole in the audience to help get them a little more verbal. That had it's ups and downs, but in general felt disingenuous. The crowd still applauded like crazy at the end, but they were pretty much stolid and mesmerized for the show.

Last night, I took the front of the stage and tried the "red light" idea above. I had a black top with shiney red cuffs and a big dragon logo on the back, so it was pretty easy to see what I was up to. At the 2 minute warning ("the show is about to begin" bellows the sound system) I headed out front and went through an elaborate check of the safety gear (the OCFD insisted on a safety towel, an ABC extinguisher and a pressurized water extinguisher at all spotter stations).

Then when the disclaimer kicked in ("the show your about to see is performed by trained professionals and could cause grave injury, do not try this at home" etc, added to the beginning of our music by the park) I pantomimed it and shook a finger at the kids in the audience. Then, as suggested above, I stood stolid but ready through the easy stuff, but got obviously ready to pounce at the slightest hint of a tough trick (leg kicked back, knees bent, towel up and forward, etc). And when the big tools or fire breathers came out, I stepped back and grabbed one of the extinguishers.

The results were immediate and favorable. The crowd whooped it up, they yelled, screamed had a good time, etc. This was the second show of the night. So, for the 3rd show, I put someone else out front after coaching them in what to do. However, they didn't quite get it and went quite blandly through the paces. I was a little upset until I realized that she provided, unwittingly, the control to this experiment. The crowd was dead. So I repeated my act for the 4th show and we were back to cheers and a happy crowd at the end (taking pictures, shaking hands etc).

So, hardly hard science, but what social science is? I, for one, am now a believer in the spotter/shill. I'm taking my camera to the park soon and filming one of the spotter performances so that people can see what I mean.

All hail PT Barnum.

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 23 replies

K who knows where i can get my hands on a fire hoop?

2007-10-09T22:22:10Z

Anyone? North Bay area, thanks so much.

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 3 replies

Ok, I know its no big deal - BUT!

2007-10-08T18:32:16Z

I had my first burn tonight. I've waited a week to make sure I wasn't gonna catch myself on fire and OMG! it was awesome! Thank you all for the inspiration and priceless experience. Can somebody become addicted? I can't wait until tomorrow night. LOL

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 2 replies

Personalizing a duvetyne blanket...

2007-09-30T19:15:56Z

I've run into issues recently with sorting out whose duvetyne is whose in large gatherings, as they are generally sheets of black cloth that all look identical. I thought to sew some initials or a design of some kind into a corner, but would I need a special kind of fire retardant thread or yarn for that? and if so where would I get it?

how have others found ways to personalize their blankets to tell them apart from those of the general masses?

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 8 replies

Hoops in Medieval- Renn Europe (Xpost)

2007-09-25T22:53:08Z

Hi all!

The following is an SCA class handout on Hoop Games. The author is Master Brusten de Bearsul, OL, OP. He got his Laurel (a big SCA arts award) in period games, so even though I have not seen the primary sources myself, I am obliged to take him at his word. This is posted here with his permission.

Hoop Games

Hoops have been used in various games since at least the classic Greek period. There are pictures of men playing with hoops on Pottery and other similar sources dating to the golden age of Athens, and coutinuing down to the hula-hoop craze of the 1950's. In Pieter Brughel's painting of children's games, dated to 1560, a boy and a girl are shown in the foreground rolling hoops with sticks. The practice of rolling hoops of various sorts with sticks was a common amusement in period, and is not as simple as it might appear. It generally was played such that the hoops could not be touched with anything other than the stick, and often had to be rolled over quite a complex course, or steered through crowds. This racing through crowds, and the problems presented thereby, are one reason we know the game was played. There are over 100 edicts banning the playin at rolling of hoops, from most of Europe, from most periods from which records survive. One of the odder ones bans the rolling of hoops by those on Pilgrimage to the shrine of St. Joseph of Camposena while traveling on 3 of the 4 major routes into the Shrine, and allowing on the 4th route only if no riders be in sight, and not on Sundays or Holy Days. Only hoops of wood were allowed to be rolled in the streets of Paris in 1473, and only in certain districts.

Rolling of hoops is not the only game played with hoops. There was a form of tag in which a hoop was carried by the player who was 'it' , and who made the tag by getting the hoop over the tagged player's head. It could be played quite energetically, as a game in Germany resulted in the death of one player whose neck was broken resisting the tag. Unfortunately, I have not been able to find other evidence of the rules of the game, so the version I teach is largely speculative. There is a picture of a cooper at work from the mid 15th century France in which a child in the background has a hoop around their waist, seemingly playing 'hula-hoop,' while another child looks on.

The handout goes on to describe Rules of Play for both Rolling hoops and Hoop Tag. On the other side of the handout is a Xerox of a painting showing the rolling of hoops. Unfortunately, I do not know the name of the painting that had the hula hooper in the background.

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 2 replies

what's your favorite fuel? why?

2007-09-25T10:20:04Z

i just lit up for the first time last night, and got to spin poi using kerosene, then white gas. other than the odor and soot, i'm thinking i might be partial to the warm glow and long burn of the kerosene. how about you? please say *why* if you respond, and thanks for sharing with this newbie.

happy spinning!
:)* spark*l ~ christine

posted in Fire Arts Education and Equipment - 17 replies