Gel wax candles are very easy and inexpensive to make. They burn slowly, and their transparency makes it appear as if their wicks were floating in their wax. Not only are they beautiful, but very easy to light. Gel candles can be made in a variety of containers. Although many prefer glass, any non-flammable container will work. To add uniqueness to gel candles, some makers choose fancy glasses, wine glasses, and vases. To add color and themes to candles, consider using embeds. This can be glitter, marbles, colorful rocks, sea shells, crystals, or anything that is both decorative and non-flammable.
You can make your own gel wax, or purchase it from a supplier. This article presumes you will purchase your gel wax.
The supplies you need to get started include gel wax, zinc wicks, fragrance oils if you desire, and dye to add color. Some people love the look of a clear gel candle and prefer not to use any dye. It is important that you only use zinc wicks for gel candles because cotton wicks absorb the gel, causing them not to light or burn well. You can purchase these supplies from a craft store or online.
You will need a hot glue gun to stick the wick to the bottom of the holder you plan to use. Hold firmly in place until the wick sticks. To make centering easier, mark the bottom of the holder with a red or black marker right in the center. The wick should then be placed on top of the mark. Leave the wick long enough to anchor it with a wick holder.
To melt the gel, cut it into small strips. For best results melt it in a double boiler at medium heat. The gel should be heated to 200 degrees Fahrenheit. The gel won’t set properly if you don’t get it hot enough and it will lose the glossy color if you get the temperature too high.
If you desire to add color to your gel candles, add it in slowly. The colors show more vibrantly in gel candles so you will need a lot less than what you making wax candles. Stir the color into the melted wax slowly until you are happy with the color. If you plan to use embedded objects in the candle, it is suggested you keep the gel candle color very light. Next, add fragrance if you desire.
For best results, heat your container in the microwave for about one minute. This will eliminate those unsightly bubbles that can form on gel candles. Immediately after removing the holder from the microwave, start adding your embeds. You will want to dip them in the hot gel to get them to stick in the holder. You can arrange embeds any way you desire. For best results push them towards the edges of the holder so that they can easily be scene. You can create embed patterns or add them loosely.
It is important not to keep the gel very hot while completing the embed process. Once you have that done, pour the gel into the holder. If you allow the gel to cool before pouring it in the holder you will end up with clumps of gel throughout the candle. Once the gel has set, remove the wick anchor and trim.
TIP: If the candle should appear bumpy on top, use a hair dryer to melt the troubled area flat.
Making gel candles is easy, fun, and inexpensive. It is a great way to make beautiful candles for your own use, for gifts, or to sell.
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