Gel Candle Making Techniques
Gel candle making is becoming more popular. Gel candles burn the same as wax candles but the technique used to make gel candles is somewhat different from making wax candles.
Both wax candles and gel candles are made from oil but gel candles are made uniquely made from 95% mineral oil combined with 5% resin. The resin is a powder which when mixed with mineral oil transforms to a solid form. The three different types of gel wax available are: high density, medium density, and low density. The high density allows the candle maker to use higher amounts of fragrance. A density gel also allows for more creativity in that it has the ability to suspend decorations in the candle. This type of gel, however, takes more time to melt than usual candle wax and is more difficult to pour.
Like wax candle making, gel candle making also involves melting wax and pouring it into a mold to firm up. As mentioned earlier, the techniques differ somewhat and the equipment used is quite different. While making wax candles involves melting wax in a double boiler, this is not the best technique to melt gel wax as it would be a slow process. Here is where a multi-cooker, which is similar to a deep fryer becomes handy. A multi-cooker is usually made from metal and non-stick coating with a temperature control dial that can be set to a correct temperature that will melt the gel wax. Despite the multi-waxer’s temperature control, however, the process of melting becomes more accurate when a separate thermometer is also used to make certain the temperature is precise. To stir the gel, it is best to use a utensil made of metal or hard plastic. Avoid stirring the gel wax with a spoon made of wood as this sometimes creates bubbles within the gel. It is important to have a fire extinguisher close by as gel wax can flame into fire.
Dyes may be used to color the gel wax and liquid candle dyes are ideal colored as they retain gel wax translucency. Often less than a drop of liquid candle dye is enough to color the gel candle therefore it is important to be aware that a tiny bit of liquid candle dye goes a long way. Food coloring, clothing dye, crayons, and soap dyes are not compatible when making gel candles as the candle will not burn properly.
With a little knowledge, gel candle making can be simple and fast allowing a lot of creativity in making unique candles. Decorations will float when added to the wax, allowing the gel candle maker to make personal gifts for friends and others. They also burn at a slower rate than the usual wax candle making the gel candle long lasting for the candle burner.
