Our green guru, Danny Seo, warms up with these resourceful ideas.

When rubbing two sticks together won’t do, give these fire-starter ideas a try. Bundle newspaper into squares and tie with natural twine. Tuck under firewood and light with a match. For a never-fail starter, save old candles, dryer lint, and cardboard egg cartons. Melt the candles in a double boiler, remove the old wicks, mix in bits of dryer lint (use 100% cotton lint saved after drying sheets and towels), and pour into the egg compartments. When the wax begins to set, insert a candle wick; cool completely. Rip off a section, toss into the fireplace, and light. Combine these ideas to wrap up a housewarming gift—literally! Place items in a brown paper bag along with assorted coordinating items, such as matches, skewers, and marshmallows. Give and make s’mores!