This week I decided to make more char cloth for flint and steel fires. Of course this means starting a fire with Flint and Steel of course. It has taken some time to get proficient at making fires this way, but it has quickly become my favorite method.
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| My kit |
It took two strikes of the steel to flint to catch a spark, this is a new record for me. When I started using flint and steel it wasn't so pretty.
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| Spark caught in char |
Things have been dry enough, that a handful of dead grass and golden rod tops made a quick birds nest.
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| Blowing into flame |
Once you get the raw flame, it is just a matter of continuing with your fire building routine. It pays to have all your materials at hand and sorted by size.
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| Starting to catch flame |
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| Going Good Now! |
Making char cloth is straight forward. I used an old flannel shirt this time, but any natural material will do. Stay away from any cloth that has synthetic fibers, these just melt. Cut up the cloth into squares and layer into the tin.
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| Cotton Cloth in a "Altoids" Type tin |
Once you have enough cloth cut up, close the lid and place it in the fire. With this type of tin, there is no need to punch a hole in the top. The hinge allows enough gaps for heat and gas to escape from the tin. Tighter lidded cans probably should have a nail hole in the top.
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| Smoke pouring out |
Eventually smoke will start pouring out as the cloth cooks down. This smoke will probably start burning as well. When it looks like the smoke and flame are diminishing, pull it from the fire and let it cool. Keep it closed until you can touch it without burning your hands.
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| Finished Product |
The finished product will be totally black, at least in a perfect world. A little brown doesn't really hurt anything. I try to stay ahead on my char making, but I also carry extra cotton cloth in a waterproof bag just in case.
As always, I would like to hear how others do things or suggestions. Please feel free to comment.
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