How to Make Gel Candles
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Lovely gel candles that you see in the shops are not as hard to make as you might think! Follow our instructions to make them yourself at home at a fraction of the cost.
Materials
Gel Wax
Gel candle dye
Gel candle scent
Wick and wick base
Spoon
Knife
Craft sticks
Double boiler
Thermometer
Candle Gel
Candle gel is made from polymer resin and mineral oil. The polymer resin transforms the liquid mineral oil into a material that is more solid and transparent.
Candle gel is sold in three different types, low density, medium density and high density. The thicker or more dense the gel is the more scent it can hold and the heavier objects you can embed in it without them falling to the bottom of the container. However a heavier gel will take longer to melt and be harder to work with.
Safety Considerations
Candle gel melts at around 275F and has a flash point around 440F. Care must be taken when adding fragrant oil as an unsuitable oil can lower the flash point considerably so that the gel can burst into flames when the candle burns. Always use oils specifically labeled as suitable for gel candle making. These are called Non Polar and can be purchased from candle making suppliers. Essential oils and paraffin wax scents should not be used.
While candle making have a fire extinguisher or some sand close by and wear heat proof aprons and gloves.
Equipment for Gel Candle Making
Use a double boiler for melting the gel. We do not recommend directly heating the gel unless you are very experienced. A thermometer is essential to ensure that you do not heat the gel close to its flash point. Heating up the gel until it melts takes some time but ne patient and do not turn up the heat to melt it faster as this can lead to overheating and the risk of the gel igniting.
For stirring the gel metal spoons are the best.
Gel Candle Dye
Only use dyes that are specifically made for gel candle making. These are liquid and maintain the transparency of the candle. Small amounts of dye chips can also be used but they do tend to lead to cloudiness.
Wicks suitable for gel candles
The usual cotton or paper cored wicks used for wax candles are not suitable for gel candles. The best wicks are zinc cored, burn safely and remain in an upright position while the candle sets. Trim the wick so that it protrudes less than 7mm from the top of the gel. Wicks do not need to reach the bottom of the container as the flame should not be allowed to be close to the glass as it may crack. Keep the wick at least a quarter of the way from the bottom. Glass beads can be used to raise it if necessary. Before placing in the container coat with a layer of melted gel.
Embedded objects
The transparent nature of the gel allows all sorts of objects to be seen when embedded. Seashells, glass beads, pebbles can be used but do not add any flammable objects.
Bubbles
Bubbles can be made by stirring the gel with a wooden spoon to aerate it before pouring into the container.
Gel candle containers
Glass containers are usually used to take advantage of the transparent nature of the gel.Champagne glasses and votive candle holders are often used but make sure that the glass is thick enough to stand up to the temperature of the melted gel. If you are not sure that the container is thick enough wear safety glasses just in case it shatters.
Image by by Mr TGT
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