PDF download Download Article PDF download Download Article

Reuse your old newspaper in a way that gives you some free fire fuel. Turning old newspaper into logs for burning is a great way to repurpose the paper and keep warm. There are various ways to make these logs, either free form or using newspaper brick maker.

Method 1
Method 1 of 3:

Newspaper Section Logs

PDF download Download Article
  1. A large pile from a week or two's reading should be a good start.
  2. Each section should be folded to the size of half a page.
    Advertisement
  3. Add a tablespoon of detergent to the water and mix gently.
  4. Stand each roll on one end and leave to dry thoroughly.
  5. Once thoroughly dry, the newspaper logs are ready for use. They should be stored in a dry, well-ventilated area.
  6. Advertisement
Method 2
Method 2 of 3:

Whole newspaper logs

PDF download Download Article

This method works only with a roaring fire, a fast drawing chimney, and fast burning fuel. Otherwise, the damp nature of these logs can put the fire out.

  1. [1]
  2. These logs will still be damp and this helps them to burn more slowly, giving off a steady heat.
  3. Advertisement
Method 3
Method 3 of 3:

Newspaper Brick Logs

PDF download Download Article

These newspaper logs take around ten minutes to make (depending on the amount you want).

  1. You will need a newspaper brick maker for this or create your own press with some wood. [2]
  2. Place into the bucket. [3]
  3. Compact down the newspaper squeezing out all of the water. [4]
  4. Let it dry on a wooden board.
  5. The logs usually burn for 45 minutes.
  6. Advertisement

Community Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    Where can I order a new log press?
    Community Answer
    There are several available on Amazon, including some that do more than one brick at a time.
  • Question
    How long do the bricks take to dry?
    Community Answer
    It should take 30 minutes to an hour. It's best to let them dry overnight though.
  • Question
    How many sheets are needed for one log?
    Jerome Mathomane
    Community Answer
    Typically, you use around 8 to 10 sheets of newspaper to make one log.
See more answers
Ask a Question
      Advertisement

      Video

      Tips

      • Do not use the second method damp logs on a newly lit fire, as these will smoke and burn poorly and might even put the fire out. If you don't have a strong chimney flow and good fuel build-up, use method number one.
      • If the newspaper logs from the sections method get wet for any reason, simply stand them upright again to dry out before use.
      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Name
      Please provide your name and last initial
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
      Advertisement

      Warnings

      • Use only dishwashing or laundry detergent. Some harsh detergents are flammable.
      • Do not close the primary air intake or the flue on the stove while burning the newspaper log.
      • Be sure that you have removed all ink from the paper. When the newspaper log heats up, any remaining ink can potentially turn into a combustible vapor.
      Advertisement

      Things You'll Need

      • Newspapers
      • Tub
      • Detergent
      • Clean workspace
      • Rod of wood, metal or other material, approximately 2.5cm/1" in diameter
      • String


      About This Article

      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 227,023 times.

      Reader Success Stories

      • Anonymous

        May 30, 2017

        "The addition of the soap to the soaking process helped. I will try that and see if it works. I've tried to ..." more
      Share your story

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement