The Upside Down Fire How to Build an Upside Down Fire: 1. Bottom layer – Lay several pieces of split hardwood (5”–7”). 2. Middle layer – Crisscross smaller pieces (3”–5”) over the bottom layer. 3. Top layer – Place a small pile of kindling (8–10 pieces) on top of the stack. 4. Light from the top of pile. This method works whether you are starting a fire in a fireplace, woodstove, or firepit.