How to Make Tikki Torches
Make your own tiki torches to recreate an island resort atmosphere in your own backyard. This article will provide you with a simplified, yet elegant and completely effective method for crafting beautiful torches in a mere fraction of the time needed by more traditional means. These torches enhance any outdoor summer or fall social event, and can be set up as late as an hour or two before your guests begin arriving.
Things You'll Need
- Bamboo pole for each tiki torch (at least 3 inches in diameter and about 5 feet long)
- 2-3 Large elastic bands (1 inch wide) for each torch
- 12-inch length of hollow PVC pipe for each torch (a bit larger in diameter than each bamboo pole)
- Sunjel Gel Fuel (Citronella is highly recommended!)
- Measuring tape
- Small container of sand (no more than three pounds)
- Saw
Instructions
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1
Hold one bamboo pole lengthwise. Use your saw and measuring tape to make a 12-inch cut horizontally through the hollow center.
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2
Rotate the pole ¼ of a turn and make another 12-inch horizontal cut (think of a “+”). Rotate the pole ¼ of a turn again, and cut horizontally to the depth of 12 inches for a third time. Now your cuts should look like a six-pointed asterisk from the end.
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3
Take one or two elastic bands and carefully wrap them around the bamboo pole near the base of the cuts to discourage further splitting. Now the open cut area should resemble six “fingers”. Place a can of Sunjel fuel down between the "bamboo fingers" and secure in place with another elastic band. Set the torch aside for now.
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4
Push a foot-long section of hollow PVC pipe into the ground a few inches. Add sand inside at least halfway to the top. This will act as a torch stand to help to stabilize your torch.
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5
Place your tiki torch inside the PVC stand and light the attached wick. Sunjel comes in a metal can that will burn safely until the fuel is gone, and the entire can is able to be discarded once empty. Citronella varieties will keep insects from spoiling your party.
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Tips & Warnings
Store tiki torches upright in a storage shed or underneath a non-flammable canvas cover when not in use. Never store them with the fuel canister still inserted in them.
Keep your burning tiki torches at a safe distance from overhead tree branches, hanging banners, balloons, tents/canopies and other potential fire hazards. Take precautions if pets and children will be present.
Live performances or recordings of island music such as West Indian calypso, Latin samba or mambo, Polynesian drums, or other world music will further add to the tropical ambiance of your event.
Resources
- Photo Credit www.tikitorches.com
