Char cloth is a crucial accessory for any wood burning stove owner. It is a simple, lightweight material that ignites easily, making it an excellent fire starter. In this guide, we’ll provide you with a clear and concise step-by-step process to create char cloth for your wood burning stove. Whether you’re a seasoned stove user or a beginner, this information is essential for ensuring you can easily light your stove and enjoy a warm fire.
1. Gathering Your Materials
To make char cloth, you’ll need the following materials:
100% Cotton Fabric: Old cotton t-shirts or denim work well. Avoid fabrics with synthetic fibers.
Altoids Tin or a Small Metal Container with a Lid: This will be used to hold the cloth during the charring process.
Tin Snips or Can Opener: To create a small hole in the container.
Fire Source: You’ll need an open flame, such as a wood stove, campfire, or a gas stove, to char the cloth.
2. Cutting the Cloth
Cut your cotton fabric into small, square pieces, typically around 2×2 inches. It’s essential to use 100% cotton fabric as it ignites easily and holds the charred ember well.
3. Preparing the Container
Using tin snips or a can opener, make a small hole in the metal container’s lid. This hole will allow gas to escape during the charring process, preventing the container from bursting.
4. Filling the Container
Place the cut fabric squares into the metal container. Don’t overfill it; leave a bit of room for the fabric to expand during the charring process.
5. Charring the Cloth
Now, it’s time to char the cloth. Follow these steps:
Wood Stove: If you’re using a wood stove, open the door and find a hot spot with flames or glowing embers. Place the container on this hot spot. You’ll see smoke escaping through the hole you made in the lid. After a few minutes, the smoke will change from white to almost clear, indicating that the char cloth is ready.
Campfire: If you’re using a campfire, place the container directly on the coals. The process is the same; look for the smoke to change as described above.
Gas Stove: If you’re using a gas stove, place the container directly on the burner, ensuring the hole in the lid is facing up. Turn the heat to medium-high. The cloth will start to smoke. Wait for the smoke to clear.
6. Collecting the Char Cloth
Using tongs or a heat-resistant glove, carefully remove the container from the heat source. Allow it to cool completely before opening it. Inside, you’ll find your char cloth. It should be black and very fragile.
7. Storing Your Char Cloth
Store your char cloth in a small, airtight container to keep it dry and readily available for fire-starting when you need it.
8. Using Char Cloth with Your Wood Burning Stove
To use char cloth with your wood burning stove, simply place a piece of it on the stove’s grate, ignite it with a spark, and then add your wood. Char cloth ignites easily and can help kickstart your fire efficiently.
Conclusion
Creating char cloth is a simple yet invaluable skill for wood burning stove enthusiasts. With this lightweight, easy-to-make fire starter, you can confidently light your stove and enjoy its warmth and benefits. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be well-prepared for a cozy and efficient wood stove experience.