In this guide, we’ll walk you through the simple step-by-step process of how to make a homemade torch using easily accessible materials and fuel sources. Not only will making a torch give you that sense of accomplishment and self-sufficiency, but it could also be vital during survival situations.
Key Takeaways
- To make a torch, you will need a stick of wood or bamboo as the base, cloth or cotton balls to use as the wick and a fuel source such as oil or wax.
- When selecting your materials, look for sturdy and durable options that can withstand prolonged burning times.
- Soaking the cloth in your preferred fuel source is crucial for sustained flame production. Always exercise caution when handling flammable materials.
- Homemade torches should always be used with care and not left unattended or used in enclosed spaces due to their potential danger as an open flame source.
Table of Contents
- Materials Needed To Make A Torch
- Steps For Making A Torch
- Final Thoughts
- FAQs
- What is a torch?
- Why should I make my own torch?
- Why should I make my own torch?
- What materials do I need to make a torch?
- What kind of fuel should I use in my torch?
- What kind of wick should I use in my torch?
- How do I make a torch?
- How long will my torch last?
- Can I reuse my torch?
- Are there different types of torches I can make?
Materials Needed To Make A Torch
To make a torch, you will need a stick of wood or bamboo as the base, cloth or cotton balls to use as the wick and a fuel source such as oil or wax.
Stick Of Wood Or Bamboo
Selecting the right stick of wood or bamboo is an essential first step in creating a torch for survival situations. Look for a sturdy and straight piece approximately 2-4 feet long, ensuring that it can bear the weight of your fuel-soaked cloth without bending or snapping.
Bamboo also serves as a fantastic alternative because of its hollow structure, which aids in channeling oxygen to sustain the flame longer. Besides providing better control when handling the torch, bamboo’s natural resistance against moisture significantly prevents premature extinguishing caused by dampness.
Cloth Or Cotton Balls
One essential component for making a torch is cloth or cotton balls, the wick to hold and burn your fuel source. Cotton is an ideal choice because it’s readily available, affordable, and has excellent absorbency, allowing it to efficiently soak up flammable liquids such as kerosene or lighter fluid.
Cotton balls offer another convenient alternative when making a torch; they’re lightweight and easy to store in emergency kits. In addition to their absorbency, cotton balls have a quicker ignition time than most cloth materials due to their fluffy nature.
To enhance your torch’s burning duration and performance further, consider using more advanced wicking materials like Kevlar string which can withstand high heat levels better than traditional cotton options.
Fuel Source (Oil Or Wax)
Selecting the right fuel source for your torch is crucial to achieving the desired intensity and duration of flame.
Oil-based torches often utilize kerosene or lighter fluid as their primary fuel source, which allows them to burn brighter and longer than other alternatives. These oils are less viscous than wax and can be quickly soaked into a cotton cloth or wick wrapped around the end of your stick.
On the other hand, wax offers a solid yet slower-burning alternative for those concerned with safety or looking for an eco-friendly option. Melted candle wax or beeswax can act as fuel and sealant—dip your cloth-wrapped stick into melted wax multiple times until you get a sufficiently thick layer on all sides of your wick material (such as Kevlar string).
Alternatively, you could wrap strips of bark around the end of your torch before applying successive layers of melted wax to create an efficient makeshift solution perfect for survivalists and preppers alike.
Steps For Making A Torch
Step 1: Wrap Cloth Or Cotton Around One End Of The Stick
Once you’ve gathered all the necessary materials, it’s time to start constructing your torch. The first step is wrapping cloth or cotton around one end of the stick. This will be a wick for your fuel source and ensure a sustained flame.
It’s best to use a tightly woven material like cotton cloth or even bark from a tree if you’re in an outdoor environment. Ensure the wrap is secure and tight enough not to unravel when dipped in fuel.
An excellent way to test this is by gently tugging on the stick’s wrapped end before soaking it in fuel.
- 5ft Paracord included, gives you a good grip and never comes off. Comes with a bayite Striker-Pro striker attached to the paracord, always be prepared to start a fire
- bayite 6 Striking Edges Striker-Pro striker is made from TOOL GRADE HSS STEEL and has a distinct hardness, maximizes a shower of hot sparks, no matter whether you prefer to use your left hand or right hand to scrape. Don’t use bad quality Knife as striker. Otherwise it will not produce enough sparks due to insufficient hardness of blade
- Ferrocerium Rod Length:4″(10cm). Diameter: 3/8″(10mm). Large enough for a shower of sparks and small enough to carry
- Made of high effective ferrocerium rod. Waterproof & Weatherproof, fits all weather, works in any weather condition
- Sparks shower at 5,500 F (3,000 C) to ignite a fire in any weather (even wet), at any altitude. Perfect emergency fire starter for Bushcraft, Hiking, Hunting, Fishing, EDC, Emergency, BBQ, Gas Camp Stoves, etc
- LONG LASTING – Each Plugs burn for more than 5 minutes. They are odorless and non-toxic. These fire plugs fire starter are perfect for emergency situations that needs cooking or create a fire.
- WATERPROOF, WINDPROOF AND FAILPROOF – Withstands Extreme conditions, perfect for extreme backpackers & campers, everyday hikers, or anyone that wants to stay warm
- EASY TO START – Bend and break plug in half, light the exposed end with a ferro rod and it will quickly start burning allowing you to build a warm strong fire. Made with non toxic and foodgrade ingredients and safe to use in your grill or wood stove.
- 30+ YEAR SHELF-LIFE – The fire starter has a long lasting expiration date opened or unopened and will not evaporate, deteriorate, or dissipate, designed to light up every time. Need to be keep in a dry storage to extand the life. So they will always be your best companion for emergency situations!
- MADE IN NORTH AMERICA – Our products use locally sourced materials and are tested in extreme conditions. The satisfaction of our client is our priority, that’s why your have a period of 30 days to get a full refund if you aren’t convinced!
- [ EXTRA HOT 5+ MINUTE BURN ] – Light your plugs with just a single spark for tall, hot flames.
- [ WATERPROOF & WINDPROOF ] – Rain or shine, wet or windy, fire plugs never quit when you need them most.
- [ NON-TOXIC FOOD SAFE ] – Made with no toxic ingredients and safe to use in your grill or wood stove.
- [ 10+ YEAR SHELF LIFE ] – Maintains peak performance for a minimum of 10+ years.
- [ MADE IN THE USA ] – Formulated and manufactured in Colorado, USA.
- 👍Magnesium rod is easily scraped off with striker,and is ignited by sparks from the flint,start fires in any weather conditions.
- 👍FIRE STARTERS : Each box includes 2 Magnesium Fire Starters can be used thousands of times.
- 👍Waterproof Fire Steel：Solid magnesium fuel bar with flint 3” x1”,steel scraper3”,Fire Paracord Outdoor Survival Ropes.
- 👍The red waxed flax in Paracord waterproof fire tinder can make instant fire even in heavy rain.
- 👍100% Satisfaction Promise: AOFAR provide 2 years limited warranty and lifetime customer support.
Step 2: Soak The Cloth In Fuel Source
One of the most crucial steps in making a torch is soaking the cloth or wick in a fuel source. Without this, you won’t be able to light your torch and produce heat or light.
Some popular options for fuel sources include kerosene, lighter fluid, animal fat, or tree sap. To soak the cloth properly, ensure it’s fully submerged for a few minutes to ensure it’s completely soaked through before lighting.
It’s also important to note that if using an accelerant like lighter fluid, use it sparingly, as too much can cause an uncontrollable flame.
In survival situations where resources are limited, improvisation is essential. If you don’t have access to traditional fuels but need light or heat immediately, try using items like cotton balls or torn pieces of clothing as makeshift wicks.
Additionally, wrapping string around the end of your stick before adding cloth can help create a tighter seal when soaking in liquid fuels like oil or lamp oil.
Step 3: Light The Torch And Let Burn For A Few Minutes
Once you’ve wrapped a cloth or cotton around the end of your stick and soaked it in fuel, it’s time to light your torch. Whether using a lighter, a fire starter kit, or DIY waterproof matches, carefully apply flame to the wrapped portion until it ignites.
The torch may take about a minute to catch fire if natural fuels were used. Once lit, let your torch burn for a few minutes before heading out on your adventure or using it for heat and lighting needs.
If you need a longer burning time, consider soaking more of the cloth in flammable liquid before lighting.
Final Thoughts
Congratulations, you now know how to make a torch! With just a few simple materials and steps, you can create an invaluable tool for survival situations or a unique way to impress your friends.
Remember to use caution and proper safety measures when handling flammable materials.
And be sure to check out our how to start a fire without matches or a lighter guide to learn more valuable wilderness survival skills… or make yourself look cool in front of your friends.
You may interested to know: Can You Use Bear Spray on Humans.
FAQs
What is a torch?
A torch is a portable source of light that can be used outdoors to illuminate the dark.
Why should I make my own torch?
Making your own torch can be a fun project, and it can also be a useful skill to have in case you find yourself without a source of light in the outdoors. Plus, it’s a great way to impress your friends and look cool.
Why should I make my own torch?
Making your own torch can be a fun craft project, and it can also be a useful skill to have in case you find yourself without a source of light in the outdoors.
What materials do I need to make a torch?
You’ll need a container, fuel, wick, and something to wrap the wick around.
What kind of fuel should I use in my torch?
Vegetable oil or tiki torch fluid are both good options for fuel. You can also use ash or soda, but be cautious as they can be less effective and cause more dripping.
What kind of wick should I use in my torch?
Kevlar wick is a popular choice for making torches, as it is durable and long-lasting. However, most people don’t take Kevlar with them when camping or in an emergency situation, so using readily available everyday items like cloth or cotton balls for the wick is usually a more reliable solution.
How do I make a torch?
Cut a strip of material to wrap the wick around, then snugly wrap the wick around the top of the stick and bottom of the wick. Then, soak the wick in fuel and light the torch.
How long will my torch last?
The length of time your torch will burn depends on how much fuel you use and how tightly you wrap the wick. A well-made torch should last for several hours.
Can I reuse my torch?
You can reuse your torch by adding more fuel and replacing the wick if necessary.
Are there different types of torches I can make?
Making many types of torches using various materials and methods is possible.
- 5ft Paracord included, gives you a good grip and never comes off. Comes with a bayite Striker-Pro striker attached to the paracord, always be prepared to start a fire
- bayite 6 Striking Edges Striker-Pro striker is made from TOOL GRADE HSS STEEL and has a distinct hardness, maximizes a shower of hot sparks, no matter whether you prefer to use your left hand or right hand to scrape. Don’t use bad quality Knife as striker. Otherwise it will not produce enough sparks due to insufficient hardness of blade
- Ferrocerium Rod Length:4″(10cm). Diameter: 3/8″(10mm). Large enough for a shower of sparks and small enough to carry
- Made of high effective ferrocerium rod. Waterproof & Weatherproof, fits all weather, works in any weather condition
- Sparks shower at 5,500 F (3,000 C) to ignite a fire in any weather (even wet), at any altitude. Perfect emergency fire starter for Bushcraft, Hiking, Hunting, Fishing, EDC, Emergency, BBQ, Gas Camp Stoves, etc
- LONG LASTING – Each Plugs burn for more than 5 minutes. They are odorless and non-toxic. These fire plugs fire starter are perfect for emergency situations that needs cooking or create a fire.
- WATERPROOF, WINDPROOF AND FAILPROOF – Withstands Extreme conditions, perfect for extreme backpackers & campers, everyday hikers, or anyone that wants to stay warm
- EASY TO START – Bend and break plug in half, light the exposed end with a ferro rod and it will quickly start burning allowing you to build a warm strong fire. Made with non toxic and foodgrade ingredients and safe to use in your grill or wood stove.
- 30+ YEAR SHELF-LIFE – The fire starter has a long lasting expiration date opened or unopened and will not evaporate, deteriorate, or dissipate, designed to light up every time. Need to be keep in a dry storage to extand the life. So they will always be your best companion for emergency situations!
- MADE IN NORTH AMERICA – Our products use locally sourced materials and are tested in extreme conditions. The satisfaction of our client is our priority, that’s why your have a period of 30 days to get a full refund if you aren’t convinced!
- [ EXTRA HOT 5+ MINUTE BURN ] – Light your plugs with just a single spark for tall, hot flames.
- [ WATERPROOF & WINDPROOF ] – Rain or shine, wet or windy, fire plugs never quit when you need them most.
- [ NON-TOXIC FOOD SAFE ] – Made with no toxic ingredients and safe to use in your grill or wood stove.
- [ 10+ YEAR SHELF LIFE ] – Maintains peak performance for a minimum of 10+ years.
- [ MADE IN THE USA ] – Formulated and manufactured in Colorado, USA.
- 👍Magnesium rod is easily scraped off with striker,and is ignited by sparks from the flint,start fires in any weather conditions.
- 👍FIRE STARTERS : Each box includes 2 Magnesium Fire Starters can be used thousands of times.
- 👍Waterproof Fire Steel：Solid magnesium fuel bar with flint 3” x1”,steel scraper3”,Fire Paracord Outdoor Survival Ropes.
- 👍The red waxed flax in Paracord waterproof fire tinder can make instant fire even in heavy rain.
- 👍100% Satisfaction Promise: AOFAR provide 2 years limited warranty and lifetime customer support.
