How to Make Cardboard Logs

How to Make Cardboard Logs
Written By
Mia McShane
Mia McShane
Published: Mar 22, 2010
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
3 minute read

Things You Will Need

  • Utility knife
  • Work gloves
  • Tape measure
  • Pencil
  • Large outdoor or garage area: non dirt, preferably concrete surface
  • Watering can
  • Strong cotton twine
  • Two people

Briquettes and logs can be made out of common household waste products such as newspaper, paper, and cardboard.

Prepare the Cardboard

  1. Cut down any boxes with the utility knife so that all the cardboard is in flat pieces.

  2. Cut the cardboard into pieces, all with varying lengths and 14-inch widths. Spread all of the cardboard lengths out in a single layer on the floor surface.

  3. Fill the watering can with water. Then pour the water on the cardboard so that it is wet enough to be pliable, but not completely soaked.

Constructing the Logs

  1. Pre-cut some lengths of the twine; start with fifteen 18-inch pieces, which will be enough for five logs.

  2. Stack all of the cardboard lengths next to your work cutting area. Pick one from the stack, and beginning at one of the 14 inch ends, fold the edge over about one inch. Begin to tightly roll the cardboard width wise toward the other end.

  3. Have the second person help you keep the roll tight as you go. When you are almost to the end of the first length of cardboard, have your helper lay the end of the next length of cardboard on top of the end of the first one by overlapping about five inches.

  4. Have your helper hold the overlapped portion down until you have continued rolling the log onto the new length of cardboard.

  5. Continue rolling until the log is the size you desire. The finished log should look similar to a large, very thick paper towel tube.

  6. Hold the log in place with your hand and knee, and have your helper slip one length of the twine under the log at one end. The helper needs to tie a knot as tightly as possible.

  7. Repeat this process on the other end of the log. Tie a third knot in the middle of the log.

  8. Plan on drying your logs in a warm dry area for an average of 3 months. This time will vary more or less depending on your climate, and it is conceivable that they may dry in less time. Try one, and see how it burns.

  9. Use these logs as if they are wood. If they do not seem to burn well, then dry a little longer.

Photo Credits

indigolotos/iStock/Getty Images

indigolotos/iStock/Getty Images

Mia McShane

Mia McShane’s childhood teacher: "Mia is a very good student. I am amazed at her many interests and her knowledge." Today, she is still exactly the same. McShane is an artist, writer, martial artist/instructor and clothing entrepreneur.…

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