I have done this. Wrap cotton string about half way down the stick. The reason for the half way down wrap is it gives some stick to hold onto. The size sould be what they call butchers twine. About 1/2 to 3/4 the size of the stick. Much thinner burn is to short. Much thicker it becomes far to bulky. Then dip in paraffin. This waterproofs and it soaks into the cotton forming a simple wick. A candle with a built in igniter.

While single sticks will work adiquately they are somewhat limited in remaining alight especially in windy conditions. A much better idea is to bundle 3 matches together then wrap with twine. Addmittedly they will take more space but does deviler a more intense initial flame.

For a real intense flare you can bundle 6 or 7 matches You might want to include one such bundle as a severe conditions lighter. If conditions do not warrent the need such bundles can be broken down into individual sticks.