Gel Candles

Candles can be of several types. One such popular type is gel candles. Compared to wax candles, gel candles are gaining more popularity because of its additional features. It’s quite simple and easy to learn how to make gel candles. The biggest advantage of gel is that it is very clear and if you decide to use decorative items in gel, all the items will be visible. You can use decorative items like coins, glitter, marbles, lovely stones, beads etc. If you are aware of making wax candles, you can also make gel candles because both have similar procedure with a slight difference.

Oil is the main element used in making gel candles. In fact, most of the candles are made using oil. Resin powder is added to the mineral oil to make gel candles. Like wax candle, gel is also heated up to the melting point. It could be about 200 degrees F after which the gel turns into a thick syrupy substance. This substance is not easy to work with and demands more expertise. Then, gel is poured into a candle container. This process is done very carefully as there are chances of bubble being formed in the candle. Unlike candle wax where a double boiler is used for melting, in case of gel candles, a multi-cooker made of metal with a non-stick coating, is used. A chemical fire extinguisher should always be at your disposal as gel can easily catch fire.

The stirring function is performed with a hard plastic or metal stick. Once the gel is heated to the desired temperature, one can add scent and coloring depending upon his preferences. A tiny amount of liquid candle dyes should be added in order to allow the gel to remain clear. The last step is of leaving it as it is for a few hours to cool and you have your gel candles ready.