It’s Walnut Season: From Superfood to Natural Firestarters

Autumn brings a harvest of rich, earthy flavours – and walnuts are one of the stars of the season. Known as a superfood, walnuts are packed with healthy fats, antioxidants, and plant-based protein, making them a nourishing addition to your diet. But what about the shells? Instead of tossing them away, you can put them to surprisingly good use.

It’s Walnut Season: From Superfood to Natural Firestarters

Why Walnuts Are a Superfood

Walnuts are not just tasty, they’re also incredibly good for you. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fibre, and essential minerals like magnesium, they support heart health, brain function, and overall wellbeing. Adding a handful to your porridge, salad, or baked goods is an easy way to enjoy their benefits.

Don’t Waste the Shells: DIY Walnut Firestarters

Those empty walnut shells may appear fragile, but they make perfect little vessels for eco-friendly fire starters. It’s a simple and sustainable way to reuse what nature provides – and it adds a handmade touch to your autumn and winter rituals.

For more inspiration, read: DIY Pinecone firestarters or how to make Aromatic Papercone fire starters.

How to Make Walnut Firestarters

You’ll need:

• Empty walnut shells (halves)

• Wax (soy, beeswax, or leftover candle wax)

• Cotton wicks or wood shavings (optional, for longer burn time)

• Decorations: dried herbs, spices, or citrus peel

Steps:

1. Prepare the shells – Crack walnuts carefully to keep the halves intact. Clean and dry them.

2. Melt the wax – Use a bain-marie or heatproof jug placed in hot water.

3. Fill the shells – Pour melted wax into each half, adding a short cotton wick if desired.

4. Decorate – Before the wax sets, press in a sprig of rosemary, dried orange peel, lavender buds, a piece of cinnamon stick, or star anise for a seasonal look.

5. Cool and store – Let them harden fully, then keep in a tin or glass jar until ready to use.

When lit, they give off a gentle aroma from the herbs and spices, while the wax and shell help your fire catch quickly.

Ideas for Seasonal Decoration

• Festive touch: Use star anise, cinnamon, and clove for a Christmas feel.

• Soothing blend: lavender and rosemary for a calming winter evening.

• Citrus lift: dried orange or lemon peel for a bright, refreshing spark.

Getting in the mood? Why not try making these Autumn simmer pot recipes to make your home smell amazing?

A Sustainable Autumn Craft

Making walnut firestarters is more than just a cosy DIY project; it’s a brilliant way to embrace seasonal living, reduce waste, and add a personal touch to your home. Whether you use them for your fireplace, wood-burner, or even as thoughtful handmade gifts, these little shells carry big warmth.

5 FAQs:

1. Can I use any type of wax for walnut firestarters?

Yes. Soy wax, beeswax, or leftover candle wax all work well. Beeswax imparts a natural honey aroma, while soy is a clean-burning option.

2. Do I need to add a wick?

Not necessarily. The shell and wax will burn on their own, but adding a small cotton wick or wood shaving helps them catch fire more easily.

3. How long do walnut firestarters burn?

On average, each shell burns for 5–10 minutes, long enough to get logs or kindling going in your fireplace or stove.

4. Are walnut firestarters safe for indoor use?

Yes, as long as they are used in a proper fireplace, wood burner, or stove with good ventilation. Never use them as standalone candles.

5. Can I gift walnut firestarters?

Absolutely. Arrange a set in a tin or glass jar, decorated with a festive ribbon or label. They make charming, eco-friendly seasonal gifts.