Making fire briquettes
Making fire briquettes from wastepaper is a great way to recycle and create an alternative fuel source! Here’s a simple method to get started:Materials Needed:
Shredded wastepaper (newspapers, junk mail, etc.)
Water
A bucket or large container
A briquette press (or a homemade mold)
Optional: Sawdust, wood shavings, or other organic material for better burning
Steps:Soak the Paper – Tear the wastepaper into small pieces and soak them in water for at least 24 hours to soften.
Create a Pulp – Use your hands or a blender to mash the soaked paper into a thick, porridge-like pulp.
Mix in Organic Material (Optional) – Add sawdust or wood shavings to improve the briquette’s burning efficiency.
Mold the Briquettes – Pack the pulp into a briquette press or a homemade mold (such as a PVC pipe or a tin can with drainage holes).
Press Out Excess Water – Squeeze out as much water as possible using the press or by hand.
Dry the Briquettes – Leave them in a dry, well-ventilated area for at least two weeks until completely dry.
Use as Fuel – Once dry, your briquettes are ready to be used in a fireplace, stove, or outdoor fire pit!
