Making Gel Candles
An alternative in candle making that is growing in popularity is gel wax. Finished gel candles function and burn just like regular wax candles, although the process of making them differs from that of working with regular wax.
Just a little background on gel wax – they are made of oil, just like regular wax is. The difference is that gel wax is made up of 95% mineral oil, and the remaining 5% polymer resin. Resin is powder-based material, but when combined with mineral oil it slightly solidifies into a gel form.
Gel wax comes in low, medium, and high levels of density. Note that lower density level gives the gel lower capacity in holding fragrance. Likewise, higher density gel is able to lock in fragrances better, and is easier to decorate as it holds decorations better due to the more solid texture.
Here are some useful tips when making gel candles:
- The first step in making gel candles is basically somewhat similar to the first step in working with regular wax. Instead of double boiler, most candle makers would use multi-cooker to melt gel wax. This is because with double boiler it uses indirect heating and you may have to wait forever for the gel to melt! A multi-cooker lets you adjust the temperature so that it’s optimal for melting gel wax. The non-stick material also makes it easier to clean. Hint: try to use metal or plastic spoons/spatulas to stir the wax because wooden ones tend to add bubbles into the wax.
- Place the gel wax directly to the multi-cooker. There is no need to find another container to indirectly heat and melt the gel.
- A thermometer comes in handy to make sure you really get the gel melting at the right temperature. This is important because gel wax can catch fire so you may also want to have fire extinguisher handy.
- You can change the color of your gel wax. Use dye or a coloring material, preferably the liquid kind because it doesn’t alter the density level of the candles and keeps the gel translucent. Take note: you will only need to use a (really) small amount of liquid dye for coloring gel candles. Stay away from crayons, soap dye, clothing dye, or even food coloring because they do not work with gel wax and will burn!
Making gel candles isn’t difficult. Gel wax isn’t the hardest to work with and therefore it makes a great choice if you are just starting out to learn to make your own candles. You can still be creative to come up with different designs. Adding decorative pieces is extremely easy with gel candles – they float within the gel and make beautiful gifts that you can easily personalize. They also burn more slowly and therefore last longer than regular wax candles.
