How to Make a Torch in Minecraft

Guide Java Bedrock

Quick answer: Craft 4 torches with 1 coal (or charcoal) on top of 1 stick anywhere in the crafting grid. Torches give off light level 14, which keeps hostile mobs from spawning on nearby blocks, and they melt snow and ice right next to them.

What you need

1 coal or charcoal
1 stick (makes 4 torches)

Step by step

Get coal by mining coal ore (common in mountains and caves), or make charcoal by smelting a log.
Craft sticks from 2 planks.
Open the crafting grid (your 2x2 inventory grid works).
Place 1 coal or charcoal directly above 1 stick.
Take the 4 torches.
Place them on top or on the side of most solid blocks to light up the area.

Java vs Bedrock

The torch recipe is identical in Java and Bedrock, and torches can be placed on the top or sides of most solid blocks in both. A regular torch gives light level 14; hostile mobs in the Overworld need a block light of 0 to spawn, so any torch that reaches a block keeps mobs off it. Underwater torches do not work, but torches instantly break gravity blocks like sand and gravel that fall on them, which is the fastest way to mine a gravel pillar. For a dimmer blue light, craft a soul torch with soul soil or soul sand added.

Versions: javabedrock

Frequently asked questions

How many torches does one coal make?

Four torches per coal or charcoal, plus one stick. One stack of coal and a stack of sticks light up an entire early-game base.

How far apart should you place torches to stop mobs spawning?

Hostile mobs in the Overworld need a block light of 0 to spawn, and torch light drops by 1 for each block of distance. A torch reaches 13 blocks, but light spreads by steps along each axis, so diagonal corners are reached sooner than that. Place torches close enough that no dark gaps remain between them.

Can torches melt snow and ice?

Yes. Ice melts and snow layers disappear next to a light source of level 12 or more that is not the sun, which for a torch means within about 2 blocks. Use soul torches, lanterns at a distance or hidden lighting if you want to keep ice or snow intact.