What Is a Hemp Wick? The Fort York Desk Breaks Down the String That Lights Your Bowl
Last checked: October 30, 2026
Desk note: you've seen it coiled on a lighter, wound like twine, burning with a small steady flame. Here's the short version of what is a hemp wick, how people use it, and what to watch out for. For adults 19+. No product picks. No claims about flower.
What is a hemp wick?
A hemp wick is a length of hemp string coated in wax, usually beeswax. You light one end with a lighter or match, then use that small flame to light a bowl, a joint or a cone. The lighter does the first spark; the wick does the rest.
That's it. String, wax, flame.
Why people use one
- A smaller, steadier flame. A wick's flame is modest, which makes it easier to aim at one corner of a bowl.
- No thumb on the lighter wheel for ages. You light the wick once and use it for the session.
- Less lighter in your face. The flame sits at the end of the string, not right under your nose.
- Taste preference. Some people simply prefer it to lighting straight from a butane lighter. That's a matter of taste, not a fact we can measure for you.
How to use a hemp wick, step by step
- Unwind a short length. A few centimetres is enough. Leave the rest coiled.
- Light the tip. Use your lighter or a match on the free end.
- Let it catch. Give it a second to burn steadily.
- Bring the flame to the bowl. Touch it to one edge of the flower and pull gently.
- Put it out. Pinch carefully with damp fingers, blow it out, or dip it in a glass of water. Then trim the burnt end.
Desk tip: wrap the wick around the lighter body. It keeps it tidy and always in reach.
Hemp wick for joints and cones
Lighting a joint or cone with a hemp wick follows the same idea: rotate the tip slowly in the wick's flame so the end catches evenly. A slow, even light helps the joint burn straight. If you've ever had one run down one side, start there. Our pre-roll guides cover formats if you're comparing joints and cones.
Safety: before you light, during, after
Before: clear the area of paper, curtains and anything that catches easily. Have a glass of water or an ashtray ready.
During: don't let the burning end drop. Keep the length short so it can't swing into fabric.
After: make sure the end is fully out before you put it down. Wax drips can stay hot.
Hemp wick is flammable string. Treat it like a candle, not a toy, and store it away from children.
What a hemp wick isn't
- Not cannabis. Hemp string comes from the hemp plant, but it's twine, not a product to smoke.
- Not a lighter replacement. You still need a flame to start it.
- Not windproof. A balcony breeze will put it out quickly.
Hemp wick vs lighter vs matches
| Flame size | Upkeep | Notes | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lighter alone | Larger | Refill or replace | Fast, simple |
| Hemp wick | Small, steady | Trim the end | Still needs a lighter or match to start |
| Matches | Small, brief | Carry a box | Short burn time |
Common mistakes
- Unwinding too much. Long lengths flop and drip.
- Leaving it burning. It keeps going if you walk away.
- Using it near drafts. It struggles outdoors.
- Skipping the trim. A charred, frayed end burns unevenly next time.
Quick answers
What is a hemp wick made of? Hemp twine coated in wax, commonly beeswax.
Can I make my own? Some people coat hemp twine in melted beeswax at home. Take care with hot wax and open flame.
Does it work with a bong? Yes, the same way it works with a pipe.
Plan the stop
Fort York Cannabis has a quick CityPlace visit guide for getting to the shop. Curious how cannabis plants start out? Read our clones vs seeds explainer. Fort York Cannabis is for adults 19 and over. Staff ask for ID from anyone who looks under 25.