Gel candle making has recently become such a market leader. One can almost not notice the difference that lies between gel candles and its cousin, the wax type ones. It is just coincidence that the materials constituting gel candles give it a bit of an edge.
Both candles share oil as one of its primary components. Even so, there is a slight mix of resin found in the mineral oil component of gel candles. About 5% polymer resin is combined with 95% mineral oil. This results in a rock-solid gel form that varies in the density, namely, high, intermediate and low. The difference in density is also the factor that affects the amount of fragrance that the mineral oil retains. The smell becomes stronger the higher the density is. You would also notice that if your gel is thicker, the decorations stay firmly suspended in the gel candle. Even so, having a thick gel candle would make the melting progression to take a while and pouring it would be likewise difficult.
If you are fascinated to start practicing gel candle making, there are procedures that you would need to study which is no different than that of making regular wax candles. Basically, the steps are similar, from the melting of the wax up to the placing the liquid in to a mold and left to dry. The slight variations can be found in the instruments and methods to be used. For a regular candles wax, the most common thing to do is to soften it in a double boiler with the only drawback being that it is not compatible with gel wax or if it would, it would take longer to melt.
It would make sense to invest in a multi - cooker. This cooking tool is identical to a deep fryer with a non - stick surface. This is very convenient to get the proper hotness of the heat while melting down the gel wax since it has a heat dial. It is very efficient because it gives you the ability to heat water and melt wax all together. An essential tip is to use your personal thermometer rather than rely too much on the temperature dial when you start dissolving the wax. Also, use wooden tools to avoid the formation of bubbles. . A word to the wise, be cautious since gel candle wax is easily flammable so it is best to have an extinguisher on standby. Never forget to always be careful.
To liven up your gel candles more, you can use dye colors. Liquid candle dyes can be a great way to give that "shining exterior" to your gel candles. Make sure that you measure your dye content properly because using too much might also be disastrous. In truth, you would only need a few drops for a big batch of candles. If you are planning on using crayons, food, and clothing dyes, you need to hault! These were never made for candles thereby would cause more damage than harm to your craft.
Gel Candle making is a great way of putting all your creative energies into use. Aside from the fact that it is quick and effortless to actually do, the finished product would showcase your own design and it makes a perfect present to someone. It is an beautiful art that is easy to reproduce and would definitely stand the tests of time.
Author Resource:
Kim Montgomery is a candle lover and shares that love with many around her. If you love candles and would want to know more secrets and expert tips about gel candle making, and everything you need to know about making your own perfect candles, visit http://www.candlemakingshop-onalbertstreet.com/