yup, i'd say experiment with smoker material. i have used burlap, grass, shavings, pellet stove fuel, and pine cones.
finally found a combination that seems to work for me. i wad up some paper and light it off, then add very dry pine cones. if i need it to burn for a long time, i add some pellet fuel. then you have to remember to puff it every once in a while while you are working, or whatever you are using might go out. i also found it helps to leave it open and get a good burn going before i close it up and go for smoke. then...if it's to hot, i add a wad of green grass to the top.
it can be frustrating, but with some practice and finding the right fuel combo, it works.