How To Make Gel Candles

by Ruky Walsh⁽²⁾
http://candlemakingtips.net

Most people prefer gel candles for various reasons. Although gel candles are similar to wax candles in their working and burning, their production method is a bit different.

Gel candles are made from a combination of 5% polymer resin and 95% mineral oil, whereas wax candles that are produced from oil. The resin used begins in powder form and it solidifies when it comes in contact with the mineral oil. Available in low, medium and high density, gel wax can be combined with the appropriate amount of fragrance oil. When the decorations and the fragrance oil is more, then a higher density gel is used. The only drawback here is that the more dense the gel is, the longer it will take to set and it is even much tougher to pour.

When making gel candles the procedures followed are the same as those used in making wax candles. The same steps are involved like melting and pouring into the mold etc. However, the method and equipment needed for making gel candles is different than wax candle equipment. For example if you were to try and use the standard double boiler, you would be at it a whole lot longer than necessary. Instead of using a double boiler, gel melts much quicker and more easily in a multi-cooker. This cooker resembles a deep non-stick coated fryer. It has a temperature control and separate heating element, however most people still use a thermometer to be safe and doubly sure of the correct melting and pouring temperatures. Wooden spoons are avoided since they may introduce air, hence hard plastic or metal is used to stir the mixture. Noteworthy point here is that since gel wax is more combustible than wax, keeping a fire extinguisher close is a good idea.

If you choose to color your gel candles you can use liquid candle dyes. Dyes such as this can give your candle the color while still allowing the candle to remain translucent. A small amount almost less than a drop is needed. Avoid clothing dye, food dye, soap dyes and crayons since they won't let the candle burn properly as they are not meant for this purpose. In addition to adding color to gel candles you can add other decorations to the gel that give the appearance of floating inside the candle. When it comes to making gel candles to give as gifts, adding decorations is a great way to personalize them. The potential and ideas for candles possibilities are endless.

One of the benefits of a gel candle is that gel takes longer to burn as compared to wax candles, which means that your gift will last longer! Gel candle making is not only fun, it is easy and can be learned quickly. So what are you waiting for?

Ruky Walsh is a soy candle making expert. For more information on how to make gel candles, visit http://candlemakingtips.net.

Article submitted Saturday, August 22, 2009 & read 91 times.

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