DIY Aromatic Paper Cone Firestarters: Natural, Fragrant & Perfect for Cosy Evenings
- Astrid van Essen
- 15 hours ago
- 3 min read
There’s something so comforting about lighting a fire on a crisp evening. The warmth, the crackle, and — if you make your own firestarters — the gentle aroma of herbs and spices filling the air. Lately, I’ve been making DIY aromatic firestarters in rustic paper cones, and they’ve quickly become a seasonal favourite in my home.
Not only do they work beautifully, but they also look rustic and make great gifts. With just wax, paper, and a few natural botanicals, you can create firestarters that are practical, eco-friendly, and a joy to use.
Why Choose Paper Cone Firestarters?
Eco-friendly – no chemical cubes or synthetic starters.
Practical – the paper itself acts as the wick.
Beautiful – tuck herbs, spices, and dried botanicals inside for a rustic look.
Giftable – bundle a few cones with twine for a thoughtful, handmade present.
Versatile – perfect for fireplaces, wood stoves, or outdoor firepits.
What You’ll Need
Wax (soy, beeswax, or melted candle stubs)
Paper – kraft, parchment, or recycled brown paper
Natural filler:
Wood shavings or sawdust
Pinecones or small bark chips
Dried orange peel
Cinnamon sticks
Star anise or cloves
Rosemary, sage, or lavender stalks
Dried flowers like rose, chamomile, and calendula
Twine or string (optional, for tying cones shut)
How to Make Paper Cone Firestarters
Roll your cone
Cut a square of kraft or parchment paper. Roll it into a cone shape and secure with twine, tape, or a dab of glue.
Add a base layer
Start with wood shavings, sawdust, or small pieces of pinecones. This helps the firestarter catch quickly.
Layer aromatics
Add dried orange peel, cinnamon sticks, star anise, or herbs. Leave some visible at the top for a pretty finish.
Pour in wax
Slowly drizzle the melted wax into the cone until it’s about ¼ to ½ full. You don’t need to fill it to the top — just enough to bind the contents together.
Seal or style
Either twist the cone shut or leave the top open so the botanicals peek out. Both work — it’s just a matter of style.
Let set
Leave the cones to harden at room temperature, or place them in the fridge to speed up the process.
Use or gift
To light, place a cone under your logs or kindling. Light the tip of the paper and enjoy the gentle crackle and aroma.
Do I Need a Wick?
No wick is needed for these firestarters. The paper cone itself acts as the wick — once lit, the flame naturally spreads down through the wax and fillers. If you’d like to add a decorative touch, tuck in a dried rosemary stem, lavender stalk, or a piece of waxed cotton string, but it’s not essential for function.
Tips for Success
Keep it light – don’t overpack the cones. Air gaps help the flame spread.
Paper choice matters – uncoated kraft or parchment burns best. Avoid glossy or printed papers.
Strong scents work best – cinnamon, rosemary, and dried citrus peel give the strongest aroma.
Gift-ready idea – tie 3–4 cones with jute twine, tuck in a cinnamon stick, and add a little handwritten label.
Seasonal twist – add cranberries or evergreen sprigs for Christmas, or dried apple slices for autumn evenings.
DIY Aromatic Paper Cone Firestarters: 5 Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I need a wick?
No. The paper itself works as a wick. If you’d like, you can tuck in a dried rosemary stem or a piece of waxed cotton string for decoration.
2. Can I use any kind of wax?
Yes. Soy wax, beeswax, or old candle stubs all work well. Beeswax gives the longest burn, while soy wax is budget-friendly.
3. Are they safe for indoor fireplaces? Yes — as long as you use plain paper and natural botanicals. Avoid synthetic fragrance oils, plastics, or chemically treated wood.
4. Do they make the whole room smell? The fragrance is subtle and gentle. You’ll notice hints of spice or herbs, but it won’t overwhelm the room like a candle or diffuser.
5. How long can I store them? They’ll last for months if kept in a dry place. Store in a basket or jar with a lid to keep the scent fresh.
These firestarters are a wonderful mix of practicality, beauty, and sustainability. They’re quick to make, endlessly customisable, and a joy to give as gifts. Whether you’re lighting a fire for yourself or gifting a handmade bundle to a friend, these little cones are sure to bring warmth to any evening.
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