How to Make Homemade Gel Candles

Many people need a creative outlet--something that allows them to show their abilities and relieve stress. Making candles can be a wonderful pastime. You can make gel candles for gifts or for your own personal gifts. Some people have even started their own businesses. If you try to figure out how to make candles without instructions, it can stressful but when done correctly it is simple enough for beginners. Luckily, making candles can be simple.

Things You'll Need

• Presto Kitchen Kettle
• Pyrex measuring cup
• Candy or meat thermometer
• Metal spoon for stirring
• Zinc core wick
• Penreco's Versagel wax
• Liquid candle dyes or color blocks
• Toothpicks
• Knife
• Gel fragrances (non-polar and over 170 flash point)
• Glass container
• Non-flammable decorations to put in the candle.

Instructions

1. Examine the container. Make sure the container is clean. Ensure the container is large enough to hold the amount of gel you want and the decorations you want to use. Also make sure the container is thick enough that it will not break when you pour the wax in it.

2. Attach the wick to the bottom of the glass. The best way to do that is with a small amount of hot glue to the bottom of the glass where you want the wick. Then stick the wick to the hot glue and let dry.

3. Melt the wax. Take the wax out of the package. Cut into several small blocks. Place the wax in the Pesto Kitchen Kettle. The wax will melt around 200 degree Fahrenheit. The easiest way to make sure you do this safety is to use a digital thermometer that you can set. Once you set the thermometer, place in the wax. It will melt when it reaches 200. Once it reaches 200, maintain the temperature. Ensure the max is completely melted.

4. Put the fragrance in to wax. The general rule is 1/2 teaspoon of fragrance per pound of gel wax. However this is personnel preference, you can add more or less to achieve your desired effect. Make sure you add fragrance in 1/4 teaspoon increments. If you accidentally put to much in, you can always add extra gel cubes to dilute the scent.

5. Make the color. It is easiest if you use liquid color dye but you can shave small pieces of the dye block into the candle. Remember that it's easier to add a little more dye than having to melt more gel, so be careful adding the color. If you are using liquid die, use a toothpick to dip in the gel. If using a dye block, make sure to add just a little bit at a time.

6. Pour the wax. You will want to chose a level place to pour the wax. Pour the wax very slowly down the flat edge of a metal spatula. Pour the wick up straight.

7. Add the decorations. You can use any decoration that is not flammable. Some suggestions are glitter, seashells, marbles, wax fruit, metal charms, and sand.

8. Let cool. In about four hours, your candles will be ready to use.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure to have tools to stop a fire nearby. Remember water will only spread these flames; you need a fire extinguisher and baking soda. It is advisable to wear safety goggles and a flame resistant apron while making candles.

• Make sure to educate people about the proper use of these candles. They should not be burned to the bottom of the candle.

• When melting wax, be sure to observe it carefully. It should be a very slow process if the wax starts to smoke, remove it from the heat until it cools.

• Do not substitute a wooden spoon for the metal spoon. Using a wooden spoon for stirring can cause excess bubbles in the gel.