Instructions to Make Gel Candles

Finding instructions to make gel candles isn't difficult. These fun candles may look complicated, but they are actually fairly easy to create.

Fantastic Gel Candles

There are a number of reasons why candle lovers decide to make their own gel candles. For example:

• Gel candles burn twice as long as comparably sized paraffin candles and provide a 40 percent stronger light source.
• For many people, gel candles seem easier to make than traditional paraffin candles.
• The transparent nature of the gel allows for you to experiment with creative embed possibilities such as marbles, art glass, glitter, shells, metal charms, or gel cut outs.
• Handmade gel candles make excellent gifts for friends and family, since you can customize them with embedded objects that are perfectly suited to the recipient.
• Selling gel candles at craft fairs or through an online Etsy shop can be a good part-time home based business opportunity.

If you're on a tight budget, or simply not sure whether gel candle making is right for you, a project kit can be a good way to learn more about this craft. Kits are available online or from larger craft stores such as Hobby Lobby and Michael's Crafts. The kits typically include enough supplies for two to five candles, as well as complete instructions. The LoveToKnow Candles article Gel Candle Making Kit has more information about how to choose a kit that's right for you.

Since they are brightly colored and featured embedded objects, many people make the mistake of assuming that gel candles are safer to than traditional paraffin candles. However, candles are dangerous regardless of what type you are creating.

When making and burning gel candles, keep in mind the following safety tips:

• Gel wax burns at 260° to 280° - almost 100° hotter than paraffin wax. This means it's crucial to choose a safe container for candle making. The best containers for making gel candles are those which are made of tempered glass. You can test containers for heat resistance by heating them up in your oven for a brief time.
• Since gel wax needs to be melted over direct heat, you should never leave it unattended. Save candle making projects for when you're able to work without distractions.
• A higher temperature won't make your gel candle wax melt any faster. All you'll do is create a lot of unpleasant smoke and a potential fire hazard. Be patient when creating your candles.
• There are a few Web sites online claiming to have recipes to help you make your own gel wax. However, this is not safe. Penreco, the company with the patent on gel wax, uses mineral oil with a very narrow flashpoint variability that is not possible to duplicate on your own.
• Many of the fragrance oils used to make traditional paraffin candles can also be used for gel candle making, but you should not assume all fragrance oils are automatically safe. To be used to create gel candles, fragrance oil must be completely oil soluble (non-polar). Read labels carefully.
• Do not allow children near burning gel candles, since many youngsters are tempted by the colorful embedded objects.
• Never move a lit gel candle. If there is a crack in the container, the hot gel may leak and burn your hands.

If you're looking for instructions to make gel candles, the Internet can be a fabulous resource. Start your search by reviewing these LoveToKnow Candles articles:

• Free Gel Candle Making Guide
• Making Gel Candles
• Making Fruit Gel Candles
• How to Make a Gel Candle Centerpiece

Additional information can be found at the following Web sites:

• Brighter Scents
• Easy Oven Method for Making Gel Candles
• Candle Making for Beginners
• Making Gel Candles in Glasses
• Life 123 Candle Making Tutorial
• Gel Candle Making FAQ

When searching for candle making information online, keep in mind that gel candles are sometimes referred to as jelly candles or jelly jar candles.

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