How To Make Gel Candles – Floating Ornaments That Dazzle
Wednesday, July 21st, 2010Although candles are loved by one and all, it is gel candles that are becoming all the rage. One reason is the ability to get creative and artistic. You can easily personalize them…thus, adding an extra touch when given to someone as a gift. Another reason is that they last longer than paraffin or wax candles as they burn at a slower rate.
When buying the wax to make gel candles be reminded that there are three different densities of gel wax available -high, medium and low. If you want exceptional fragrance in your candles, high density gel wax will be the best choice since it will be able to hold the fragrance better than medium or low density wax. In other words, the candle will have a stronger fragrance.
Use a non-stick mult-cooker instead of a double boiler, skillet or sauce pan when melting wax to make gel candles. This is because the multi-cooker speeds up the melting process…since gel wax is thicker than other waxes.
This link will provide you more candle instructions.
When stirring the gel wax, do not use anything made of wood. To minimize bubbles in the gel wax, use a stirrer made from hard plastic or metal.
Due to the substantial nature of the gel, pouring it into a mold can be a challenge…be patient as you pour. And due to the consistency of the gel wax, molding time will be longer.
One of the splendid advantages of a gel candle is the thickness of the gel and how it can “suspend” or “float” different types of objects in your candle. By using bright, rich liquid dyes, you can get creative and change the color of your gel candles. These liquid dyes preserve the translucency of the gel wax. When adding it to your wax, be careful…it only requires a few drops. Don’t mess up your candle by using too much.
Do not use clothing dye, childrens crayons, soap dyes or food coloring. Since these are not made for candles, using them will cause burn problems!
You will find that these techniques will allow you to create gel candles fast and furiously while having lots of fun!
Why not venture into how to make beeswax candles next?