First you need to get rid of any bugs and the sap from the pinecones. Cover an old baking sheet, or one that you have used for this before!, with aluminum foil. Place the pinecones in a single layer only, on the baking sheet and place into a 250 degree F oven until the sap melts off and the cones look a little glossy. Let the pine cones cool before handling.
Waxing/Scenting Use the leftover from your favorite candles to melt down and then coat pinecones for use as fire starters, OR just place in a basket for fragrance. - It does not matter if scents are mixed together when using as a fire starter. - Clear, unscented wax may also be melted down...or use any of the scents available for candle making.
For scented pinecones - simply dip the pinecone in the melted wax and then set on wax paper to dry.
For use as a fire starter - dip 3 to 5 times into the melted wax to give a thick coat, making sure to let it harden in between dippings. Let dry well for several days. Directions: toss 2 to 3 into the fireplace under the logs, before lighting. The room becomes lightly scented as they burn.
DO NOT use homemade fire starters in a wood stove --this can cause a wax buildup and can cause a flare up.
Cinnamon Scented Pinecones - Simply mist the pinecones with water and sprinkle with ground cinnamon, which will now stick to the pinecone. Place into a paper lined bowl basket as the cinnamon will eventually fall off.
Cinnamon + Wax Pinecones Mix ground cinnamon with a little white glue and paint on the tips. This creates a "sap type look" without sap.
Best for Adults
