How to Make Cardboard Tiki Torches

Tiki torch is the common name for a decorative outdoor pole supporting a bright flame. A popular party decoration, these torches add flair to any outdoor gathering, turning the ordinary barbecue into a luau with the light of a match. Tiki torches are traditionally made from bamboo, but with a little planning and ingenuity, you can craft them from recycled household items. You can make your own Tiki torch from old cans, rubber bands and cardboard.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Corrugated cardboard Rubber bands Duct tape Soup can Aluminum foil 4 fishing weights Glue Wick for Tiki torch or large candle Large coffee can or #10 can Sand Tiki torch fuel

1. Cut the cardboard into rectangles, 2 feet long and 8 inches wide, cutting two pieces for each torch you'd like to make. If you're making 4 torches, for example, you'd need 8 cardboard rectangles.

2. Roll each piece into a tight tube and secure it with rubber bands. Join two pieces of cardboard together with duct tape to make one pole, 4 feet in length.

3. Place the clean, dry soup can on top of the cardboard pole. Secure the can to the pole with duct tape, wrapping tape around both the can and the pole several times. Wrap the tape up the sides of the can if desired.

4. Cut out a cardboard circle that is larger in diameter than the soup can. Cover this circle with aluminum foil. Punch a hole in the center of the circle and run the wick through it. Glue the fishing weights to the outer edge of the circle, leaving an equal amount of space between them. This is the lid for your Tiki torch, and the weights will help keep the lid in place.

5. Fill the coffee can with sand. Plant the Tiki torch in the sand, pushing the pole all the way to the bottom of the coffee can. Press sand around the pole to hold it upright.

6. Fill the soup can with Tiki torch fuel, leaving at least 1/2 inch of space at the top of the can. Place the weighted foil circle with the wick on top of the can. Wait 30 minutes to 1 hour, giving the fuel time to move up the wick. Light the torch.

Tips & Warnings

• Prior to adding the fuel, the can and the pole can be painted for a more decorative Tiki torch. Tropical flowers can be added to the cardboard pole with glue, provided they are more than 6 inches away from the top of the pole.
• Only use torches outside in open areas. Keep burning torches a safe distance from tree branches.

Resources

• Tiki torches guide
• Tiki torch fuel