I posted the instructions for the 'dryer altoids stove' on this website, in the 'make your own gear' section.
Did you follow the directions exactly (assuming you got the plans here)?

I use the small Altoids tin, with aluminum screen, and perlite. You'll see my pot boiling water in the pictures. The height to the bottom of the pot is only about 1".
I use denatured alcohol, bought by the gallon at Home Depot. The full size Altoids tin is too big and wastes fuel.
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paul, texas KD5IVP