1Tablespoonwhole dried spices, such as cloves and allspice berries
Twelve 1 and ½ -inch pieces of cotton wick or string
Standard 12-cup muffin tin
12paper liners
Old panfor melting wax
Instructions
Line a muffin tin with paper liners. Fill each one with 1 bay leaf, 3-4 mini pine cones, a few pieces of broken cinnamon sticks, about ½ teaspoon dried rosemary and a few whole spices.
Nestle one of the cotton wicks into the center of each well.
In an old pan over medium heat, melt the wax flakes. Pour an even amount of wax into each well. If needed, gently press the items down so they are mostly submerged in the wax. (They don't need to be completely covered—just enough to hold them together.) Let cool completely.
Remove the fire starters from the muffin pan. Store in an airtight jar or tin or package individually to give away as gifts.
To use the fire starter, place in the bottom of a traditional fireplace between the logs. Light the wick.
Notes
These fire starters should only be used in traditional fireplaces or in outdoor campfires and fire pits. Do not use in gas fireplaces or wood-burning stoves. Please exercise safety precautions when using.