Although everyone loves candles, people have recently gone crazy over gel candles. The possibility of creatively and artistically designing them is one explanation. You can personalize them without difficulty…thus, adding an extra touch when given to someone as a gift. Another reason is that gel candles burn at a slower rate, making them last longer than paraffin or wax candles.
When purchasing the wax to make gel candles bear in mind that there are three densities of gel wax available -high, medium and low. If you want an exceptionally fragrant candle, buy the higher density gel as the oil will embrace the fragrance better than the medium or low density wax. In other words, the candle will have a stronger fragrance.
When melting wax to make gel candles be sure to use a non-stick multi-cooker instead of the usual double boiler, skillet or saucepan. A multi-cooker will speed up the melting process…since gel wax is thicker than other waxes.
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When stirring the gel wax, do not use anything made of wood. Use something made from hard plastic or metal to minimize bubbles in the gel wax .
Due to the high viscosity of gel wax, you may find it challenging to pour gel wax into the mold…be patient as you pour. Also, more time is required for molding because of the consistency of the gel wax.
One great advantage of a gel candle is the thickness of the gel since it will allow you to “suspend” or “float” different objects in the candle. By using bright, rich liquid dyes, you can get creative and change the color of your gel candles. With liquid dyes the transparency of the gel wax is retained. When adding it to your wax, be careful…it only requires a few drops. You would not want to mess up your candle by using too much.
Do not use soap dyes, food color, clothing dyes, or even childrens crayons. Since these are not made for candles, using them will cause burn problems!
You will have lots of fun using these techniques!
Why not venture into how to make beeswax candles now?