How to Make a Fire Pit from a Gas Bottle
Got an old gas bottle and a dream of cosy nights? 🎉
Short answer: Yes, you can make a fire pit from it—and it’s easier than you think! It's cheaper than fire tables, eco-friendly, and surprisingly fun.
Keep reading for safety tips, design hacks, and DIY bragging rights!
Safety Precautions Before Starting
Before you go full fire wizard, there’s one thing you can’t skip: safety.
Working with gas bottles isn’t like building a birdhouse—there are real risks. But with a few smart steps and the right gear, you can enjoy the sparks without any drama.
Emptying and Purging the Gas Bottle
Importance of completely emptying the bottle
Let’s not sugar-coat it: cutting into a gas bottle that isn’t empty is dangerous.
Even if it sounds like it’s empty, flammable vapours can still linger inside.
You wouldn’t light a match next to a petrol can, right? Same idea here.
Make sure the valve is open in a safe area until there’s no pressure left.
Safe purging techniques to remove residual gas
To be safe, fill the bottle with water to push out the last traces of gas.
Some DIYers even leave it submerged in water overnight.
Still feeling unsure? Take it to a local service centre to purge it properly.
It’s better to delay your project than risk a trip to A&E.
Protective Gear and Workspace Setup
Safety glasses, gloves, and ear protection
Now that your bottle’s safe to touch, let’s protect you.
Safety glasses are a must—metal sparks don’t care where your eyes are.
Thick gloves, ear defenders, and sturdy boots? All non-negotiable.
Well-ventilated outdoor workspace
Always work outdoors, away from anything flammable.
Pick a flat surface, ideally concrete or gravel.
And just to be extra safe, keep a fire extinguisher nearby.
It’s not being paranoid—it’s being clever.
Tools and Materials Needed
You don’t need a professional workshop to build a fire pit—just the right tools and a bit of grit.
Think of it like prepping for a recipe: get your kit sorted, and the rest flows.
Gas Bottle Preparation
Cutting tools (angle grinder, saw)
An angle grinder with a metal cutting disc is your main tool here.
You can also use a metal saw if that’s what you’ve got handy.
The goal is a clean cut—slow and steady wins the race.
Marking tools and measuring tape
Use chalk or a permanent marker to sketch your lines.
Masking tape works wonders for guiding straight edges.
And yes, measure twice. Every seasoned DIYer’s mantra.
Fire Pit Construction
Heat-resistant materials (bricks, stones, metal)
Want a base that doesn’t crack under pressure? Go heat-resistant.
Fire bricks, steel mesh, or paving slabs are your best bets.
Avoid random garden stones—they might explode under heat. No thanks.
Welding equipment (if necessary)
If you’re adding legs or decorative panels, you might need to weld.
If welding’s not your thing, you can bolt parts together instead.
A minimalist, bowl-style design is totally fine—and stylish, too.
Step-by-Step Construction Guide
Right, time to roll up your sleeves.
This is where that gas bottle starts its journey from rusty old relic to garden showpiece.
Cutting and Shaping the Gas Bottle
Marking and cutting the desired shape
First, decide what you want: a front-opening pit? A top hatch?
Mark it out clearly, and cut slowly with your grinder.
No need to rush—this bit sets the tone for the whole look.
Smoothing rough edges
Freshly cut metal is sharp enough to slice a finger clean off.
Use a metal file or sanding disc to smooth every edge.
Even if it looks OK, run your hand over it (carefully!) to check.
Creating the Fire Pit Base and Walls
Laying a stable base (concrete, gravel)
Place your pit on a base that won’t shift.
Gravel, paving stones, or a slab of concrete will do the job.
If you’re placing it on decking or lawn, make sure it’s well shielded from heat.
Building the walls with heat-resistant materials
Optional, but a nice touch.
Build a surrounding frame or wall with bricks or stone for extra safety and style.
It adds insulation and stops people from getting too close to the hot metal.
Adding a Burner or Fuel Source (Optional)
Using a propane or gas burner
Want a cleaner flame? Install a small gas burner inside.
Just be sure to use approved fittings and check for leaks before lighting.
It’s also a good excuse to learn how fire tables work—they’re basically cousins.
Designing a wood-burning setup
For that crackling sound and campfire vibes, go with wood.
Add a grate inside the bottle to lift logs off the base.
Drill some air holes around the bottom to keep the fire breathing nicely.
Finishing and Safety Checks
You’re nearly there! But before you call the neighbours over for marshmallows, let’s make sure everything’s safe and solid.
Testing the Fire Pit
Gradual introduction of heat
Start small. A few twigs. A gentle flame.
Let the metal heat slowly—it needs time to adjust.
Jumping straight into a roaring fire could warp the bottle.
Checking for leaks or instability
If you're using gas, spray soapy water around fittings and look for bubbles.
Wobbling pit? Adjust or level the base now, before it's lit.
No one wants a runaway fire pit at a barbecue.
Final Adjustments and Safety Tips
Ensuring proper ventilation
Fire needs air. Blocked vents = smoky fire and annoyed guests.
Keep those airflow holes clean and clear.
Fire safety guidelines
Never leave your fire pit unattended.
Keep kids and pets at a safe distance.
And always, always have a hosepipe or extinguisher nearby.
Better safe than setting your fence alight.
Conclusion
There’s something magic about creating your own fire pit—especially from something once destined for the scrapyard.
With care, creativity, and a bit of elbow grease, you’ve turned a humble gas bottle into a brilliant centrepiece.
It’s not just about warmth. It’s about stories shared, marshmallows toasted, and memories made.
And all from a DIY project that didn’t break the bank.
So light it up, sit back, and soak in the glow. You’ve earned it.