Introduction
Gel candles have become increasingly popular in recent years and there are a variety of gel candle making kits now available for anyone interested in creating unique, homemade candles. These kits include everything necessary to create beautiful gel candles including the gel wax, wicks and decorative accessories. The possibilities are endless as there is such a wide range of scents, colours and shapes that you can choose from to customize your individual candle creations. Scented oils, herbs, spices and glitters can be added to the melted wax to give your candles personality. You might opt for a sweet-smelling rosemary-lavender kit or go with a rustic pine scent surrounded by coniferous decorations; or you could even choose a sea salt and sage combination with small seashells spread throughout. These are just some examples of how exciting one’s gel candle making journey can be!
Gathering Supplies
When purchasing supplies for a Gel Candle Making Kit, there are a few important factors to consider. First, it is important to purchase the necessary tools that are designed specifically for gel candlemaking. While any container can be used as a candle holder, using materials made for holding candles will ensure the best results. Depending on the size and shape of the candle you intend to make, the mold should reflect that size and design. If a long-lasting scent is desired, high-quality scents or fragrance oils should be selected. Lastly, wicks should also be appropriate to the design of the candle; too short or too thin wicks can be difficult or impossible to use successfully in gel candles.
In terms of location to purchase supplies for Gel Candle Making Kits, craft stores and other art supply stores often carry all of these items together at discounted rates. Online shopping options may also prove helpful when looking for specific shapes and sizes in molds and supplies like waxes and fragrance oils that differ from local store stock. Additionally, many suppliers of gel candles provide detailed lists of their recommended products; targeting these trusted sources can save time when it comes to shopping for supplies for your kit.
Preparation
When making gel candles, it is important to ensure that the area that you are working in is well ventilated. An open window or door should be used to allow fresh air to circulate during the candle making process. It is also crucial to use safety glasses and protective clothing while handling any flammable materials. Additionally, if you are working in a small space, be sure not to keep any kindles near your workspace and keep a fire extinguisher nearby in case of emergency. Once the above precautions have been taken and depending on the amount of kits you wish to complete, gather all necessary materials such as gel containers or jars, wicks, dyes or scents, fabric holders for the wicks and extra accessories needed based on what kit was purchased.
Preparing the Mold
One option for a mold is to use a silicone baking pan. If a silicone baking pan is chosen, it can be purchased from many retail outlets both online and in-store such as Walmart, Target, or Bed Bath & Beyond. Other types of molds that can be used include plastic containers, tin cans, and parchment paper molds. Plastic containers can be found at dollar stores and craft stores. Tin cans can generally be purchased at the grocery store or recycled from something you already have. For parchment paper molds, cut two rectangles of parchment paper (the same size) and squeeze petroleum jelly on one side before layering them together. This will create a seal between two layers of parchment paper to hold the liquid wax inside while it solidifies into a candle shape.
Pouring the Gel
When pouring your gel candle mixture, be sure to pour slowly and steadily. This will allow the liquid to flow into the mold without any interruption or added pockets of air. It is important that while you are pouring you also swipe the sides of the mold with a popsicle stick to help move any remaining air bubbles that could create an imperfection in your finished product. If necessary, gently tap the sides and bottom of the mold on a solid surface to further help eliminate any possible bubbles that might have formed. Allow multiple days for your candles to come out of the molds as this will give them time to fully cure so they are ready for lighting or packaging.
Adding Accessories & Embellishments
Adding accessories and embellishments to a gel candle is a great way to personalize it. These can range from simple ribbons, beads, or small charms added around the outer shell of the wax, or much larger accents incorporated into the design. You could use tiny shells or coins in your design, or paint designs and add glitter. If you’re looking for something different, consider adding feathers, lace fabric, stones and decorative rocks. For a truly unique look, you could also add ornamental items like wooden trinkets or dried flowers that may be embedded directly into the wax!
Curing & Burning
Curing & Burning
Before burning your candle, you will first need to cure it. The cure time can vary depending on the size of the candle. Smaller candles may require less curing time (2-3 days), while larger candles may need up to 7-10 days. Once your candle has finished curing, you can begin burning it!
To get the best burn results, allow the melted wax pool to reach the edges of the container before extinguishing the flame and re-lighting it for subsequent use. Burning your candle should take around 2″4 hours per inch of its diameter each time, then allow to cool completely before re-lighting. This helps decrease sooting and heightens scent throw.
When removing your candle from its mold safely, make sure your hands are protected with heat resistant gloves and that both have been cooled completely free from fire or heat sources before being manipulated. Taking proper precautions when handling a hot gel candle is important in order to avoid any potential burns or fires.
Conclusion
Troubleshooting Instructions:
• If your gel isn’t melting properly, try heating it at a lower temperature.
• If your dyes are not blending well, adjust the gel to water ratio until you get the desired color.
• If your candles aren’t burning correctly, try getting longer wicks or higher wax percentage in the mix.
• If your molds are too difficult to work with, use a softer material such as silicone molds.
• If the scent is too strong or weak, adjust amount of dye and/or fragrance accordingly.
Most importantly – be creative! Have fun experimenting until you get the results you desire.
Welcome to my candle making blog! In this blog, I will be sharing my tips and tricks for making candles. I will also be sharing some of my favorite recipes.