How to Make Scented Pinecone Fire Starters

Pinecone fire starters are a not only a great way to get a fire started, but will also look lovely in a basket on your hearth. When a scent is added, they will make your room smell good, even when you don't have a fire going. A basket of scented pinecone fire starters even makes a wonderful and inexpensive Christmas gift.

Things You'll Need

• Pinecones
• Double boiler or coffee can and a pan of water
• Paraffin wax
• Scented oil
• Tongs
• Waxed paper
• Candle coloring (optional)

Instructions

1. Fill a double boiler water half full of water and place it on the stove. If you don't have a double boiler, use a coffee can placed in a pan of water. Add enough paraffin wax and allow it to melt slowly on medium to low heat.

2. Add the scented oil and candle coloring when the wax has melted.

3. Dip the pinecone into the wax with the tongs. Roll it around until it is completely coated.

4. Allow the excess wax to drip back into the double boiler or coffee can before placing it on the wax paper. Allow the wax to harden completely.

5. Light a fire by putting a pinecone fire starter between logs and lighting a "leaf" of the pinecone.

Tips & Warnings

• If you want to clean your pinecones before starting the project, rinse them well in a bucket of cool water with a few drops of disinfectant. Lay them on newspaper and allow to dry completely.

• Throw a handful of old broken crayons or leftover candle stubs into the wax to add color.

• Take some pinecone fire starters along on your next camping trip and use them to start your campfire.

• Wax is extremely flammable. Children should be closely supervised by an adult if they are helping with this project.