How to Make a Soul Torch in Minecraft

Minecraft has had some new torches added to it with the introduction of the Soul Torch. If you want to make some of these, you're going to need to venture into the depths of the Nether to get what you need to create these. You can only currently obtain the ingredients you need if you're playing a in the new 1.16 Nether update!

How to Make a Soul Torch

To create a soul torch, we're going to need to venture into the Nether and gather up some soul sand or soil, create sticks, and have some coal or charcoal. We've got everything you need to know on how to accomplish this in the steps below.

Step 1: Go to the Nether

You will need to make a Nether Portal to get to the Nether. This generally requires you to harvest obsidian, make a 4x5 rectangle, and light it with a Flint and Steel. Jump into the purple portal and you will find yourself in the Nether.

Step 2: Look for a Soul Sand Valley Biome

The Soul Sand Valley Biome is a new biome type that you can find in the Nether. Soul Sand has existed for a while, but now there's new resource called Soul Soil that can be found in the same areas. Soul Sand is kind of creepy looking and slows you down when you walk through it. Soul Soil has a similar color, but is wavy and doesn't slow you down. You'll know you are in the right place if you see some blue flames coming off the soil. Harvest some of the Soul Sand or Soul Soil, you will need one for every four Soul Torches you want to create.

Step 3: Craft the Torches

Now that you have the Soul Sand or Soil, you'll just need to gather some Coal or Charcoal and a stick. Throw them into your Crafting Table and you will get 4x Soul Torches for each batch of ingredients you put in!

Lighting Comparison

So, how do these compare to the regular torches? Well, they emit less light than regular torches, so if you are just looking for general lighting then you are better off going with the originals.

However, Soul Torches have one particular use other than looking cool. Soul Torches do not melt snow or ice when they are next to it. So, if you're building a snow base or igloo and are looking for some lighting that doesn't melt it all down, then you can use these!

If you're starting a new world in the update, check out our Minecraft 1.16 Nether Seeds post!