How to Make Fire Logs Out of Newspaper

The ambiance of a roaring fire is a wonderful, welcoming addition to any home. Fires can be started with twigs, crumpled newspaper or fire starter logs. Purchasing fire starter logs can get expensive with frequent use of the fireplace. These types of logs are made of newspaper pulp and wax to bind the paper together. Save yourself money and make your own fire logs out of newspaper with simple items from around the home. This quick and easy way to start a fire in your fireplace requires little effort and will put savings in your pocket.

Things You'll Need

• Two weeks worth of newspapers
• Cotton string
• Vegetable cans
• Tub or wash basin
• Scissors

Instructions

How to Make Fire Logs Out of Newspaper

1. Prepare the stack of newspaper by removing every glossy insert from the stack. Glossy inserts can release fumes into your home when burned. Only use plain newsprint to make your homemade fireplace logs.

2. Divide your newspapers into 1-inch stacks. Create the piles by alternating the folding ends of the paper on each side. This makes the stack flatter and easier to roll tightly.

3. Straighten the stack of papers and roll the paper tightly. Allow a slight, tube-like hole through the center to help ventilate the log when burning. Slip a vegetable can on each end to hold it in place for tying.
   Secure the cotton string in two places around the rolled-up newspaper. Tie the string tightly with double knots. Remove the cans from the paper ends. Cut off loose string ends.

4. Proceed through the entire stack of loose newspaper by rolling, placing the cans on the end and tying multiple newspaper rolls. This effort should result in one dozen rolled newspaper bundles.

5. Fill the bathtub or laundry tub with water and place the rolled newspapers into the water. Soak the rolled papers completely until the paper expands and takes on a pulp-like appearance from absorbing the water.

6. Remove the rolled papers from the water and squeeze lightly to wring out some of the water.
   Place the wet rolled newspapers on end in a well-ventilated area. Allow the papers to dry completely for at least 4 to 5 days. Burning wet newspaper logs will create smoke in your home.