Pinecone flames or firestarters are burned in fireplaces or fire pits to make colored flames. Many recipes or instructions include a dipped wax method but that’s too fussy and messy–this is the easiest preparation method I’ve found.

Do not mix chemicals together when preparing. Also some advise not to mix colors when burning–so be careful.

Materials Needed:

1 1/2 Gallons Hot Water
1/2 Pound Copper Sulfate (green flame)
1/2 Pound Boric Acid (red flame)
1/2 Pound Calcium Chloride (orange flame)
3 Plastic Containers
Bushel of Pinecones

Wear rubber gloves when preparing these. Also cover tables and counters well–this stuff can stain.

• Pour 1/2 gallon of water into each plastic container
• Add one chemical to each container (one container for green, one container for red, one container for orange)
• Mix well until all the chemicals are thoroughly dissolved
• Take your pinecones and divide into three batches
• Put one batch into each container. Totally immerse the cones into the liquid and soak them for 24 hours.
• Remove the pinecones and let them dry in the sun or set aside somewhere warm and dry. Don’t burn for at least three days.

More Color Ideas:

Allum (thallium): Bright Green Flame
Salt Substitute (potassium): Violet Flame
Epsom Salts (magnesium sulphate): White Flame
Table Salt: Yellow Flame
Borax (sodium tetraborate): Yellow/Green Flame

Burn the pinecone firestarters one at a time and make sure the cone is completely burned away before adding another.

*Make sure to completely dry the pinecones before using otherwise they won’t burn.

*Keep these out of reach of pets and children.

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