How to build a roaring fire.

Roaring Fire
from virtualcabin

Arrange a row of the biggest logs on the grate in the hearth leaving an inch or two of space between each one. Stack slightly smaller logs on top, arranging them perpendicular to the first layer. For the next two layers add kindling (twigs & narrow logs) alternating so each row is perpendicular to the one below it with each layer smaller than the one below it so the stack comes to a peak. Add the final layer, tinder, which is small pieces of wood like chips and shavings. The top of the stack should be about halfway up the height of the firebox. The top layer will light easily with a match so you won't need newspaper. As the fire burns it will ignite the wood below it producing a robust blaze.