How to Lay Logs in a Fireplace

If you haven't mastered the art of fire-making yet, you need to keep a few things in mind. A fire needs air flow, as well as space for kindling. Dry, seasoned logs that are split to reveal the middle heartwood burn best. And as you build a fire, start with small to medium-sized logs, because they ignite faster than larger logs. There are several ways to build a fire, so experiment with different methods to find the one that works for you.

Instructions

- 1
  Stack your logs log-cabin style. First, place two logs parallel to each other with space in the middle for kindling. Place two perpendicular logs on top of the first two. Fill the space in the middle with kindling. Stack two more layers of logs the way you stacked the first two. These logs should be smaller. Light your fire.
- 2
  Place some kindling in the center of your fireplace, and arrange your logs like a teepee around the kindling. Four or five small to medium-sized logs with space between them for air flow should be sufficient. Ignite the kindling.
- 3
  Lay one medium-sized log on one side of your fireplace. Put the ends of several smaller logs on top of the medium-sized log. Arrange kindling under the propped-up logs. This method works well in small fireplaces. In larger fireplaces put the medium-sized log in the middle. Prop up smaller logs on both sides of the larger log, and arrange kindling under the two sets of propped-up logs. You're ready to start your fire.

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