How To Make Your Own Waterproof Matches

Waterproof matches are a handy thing to have in your kit, but what if you don't have any to hand? You could buy some waterproof matches from a store or online, but if you're the type of person who likes to make things then you can easily make your own.

In this article we're going to show you three simple ways you could make your own waterproof matches. You probably have the necessary materials to make your own diy waterproof matches laying around or they can be sort cheaply.


To start take a moment to watch the video we've prepared, it should give you an overview of what needs to be done, then continue with the rest of the article.

WARNING! If you attempt to make this yourself then take all necessary precautions and wear any necessary safety equipment. Safety advice.

How To Make Waterproof Matches Type 1

Materials Needed:

• Matches
• Wax

(A means of melting the wax if your not using a candle.)

I used an empty can of tuna suspended from two other cans to melt my wax. I used the same cheese wax I used in our Emergency Candles and to heat it I used a tea candle. If you're using a candle you want need to do this.

When the wax has become liquid simply drop the match into the wax, ensuring it gets an even coat. If you're using a candle you will simply allow the liquid wax to drip onto the stick, again ensuring an even coat.

When the match has a good coat of wax remove it with some needle nose pliers or some thing similar to avoid burning yourself or getting wax all over you. When the wax has set your diy waterproof matches are done.

DIY Waterproof Matches Type 2

Materials Needed:

• Matches
• Women's clear nail polish

This next way to make your own weatherproof matches is great as it comes with it's own handy little brush. Simply apply an even coat of the clear nail polish all over the match up to your fingertip.

When the match is coated up to your fingertip then you'll have to let it dry. Either stick it into some Styrofoam or stick it to the edge of a box. When it has dried don't forget to coat the section you were holding and allow that to dry too.

When the match is completely dry it is now waterproof and ready to use.

Homemade Waterproof Matches Type 3

Materials Needed:

• Matches
• Wood clear gloss varnish

These next homemade waterproof matches are very similar to the last type, but in my opinion give a better result. Your going to need a little paint brush to coat them, but if you don't have one to hand you could tape the matches to a stick and dunk them into the varnish.

When the matches have had there first coat like before they need to dry either by using the same methods as before or by leaving on the stick to dry. Again don't forget to coat the section you missed and allow to dry before use.

But there you have it, 3 simple ways to make your own waterproof matches from materials you may already have around the home.

These homemade waterproof matches are best made in advance, so make sure you make a batch at a time. Now some of you might not think these diy waterproof matches are as good as shop bought ones, but you would have missed the point.

You can't always buy your way out of a problem, sometimes you have to make do with what you have to hand.

Making Your Own Waterproof Matches Tips

Wipe off any water from the matches before use as this will only hamper your chances of lighting the match.

You will have to scrap the wax off the diy waterproof match head before you will be able to light the match.



If you have any suggestions on how to make your own waterproof matches or just want to share your thoughts then leave me a comment.