by Rob Pitt

Gel candles, or jelly candles as they are also known, are candles that are made of gel wax rather than the more commonly used paraffin wax. Gel candles burn much longer than wax and they are easy to make, explaining their surge in popularity in recent years. Gel, being a transparent material, can be molded into a variety of gorgeous looking transparent candles, where you can embed an endless array of small, non-flammable objects such as sea shells, crystals, glass beads, figurines and much more.

So how, exactly, are gel candles made? Well, let's start with the materials first. Beginners should consider purchasing a readymade gel candle making kit, which works best for those first learning the process. As your proficiency grows, and you are ready to move beyond your kit, the following materials will be required:

1) A stainless steel pot in which to heat and melt the gel wax.

2) A non-flammable glassware container, which allows you to see the objects you have embedded in the gel wax.

3) Gel wax.

4) Zinc core wicks.

5) Essential oils or fragrances, if you want your candles scented.

6) Liquid color dye, to color your candles.

7) Objects to embed in the gel wax.

Now for the fun part, making the candles:

1) Place small pieces of gel in the stainless steel pot, melting them over medium heat. Try to keep the heat around 200 degrees Fahrenheit to avoid burning the gel.

2) Add the dye and /or fragrance.

3) Place a little hot glue at the bottom of the glassware container. Place one end of the wick in the glue and let it set.

4) Put the glassware container in the oven and heat it to about 160 degrees Fahrenheit.

5) Dip your non-flammable objects in hot gel before arranging them in the glassware container, close to the sides.

6) Pour the melted gel along the sides of the container, being careful to avoid bubbles.

7) Pull up the wick and let the candle cool.

Finally, trim the wick. And that's it!

Pretty simple, huh? Not to mention a lot of fun. You can even make money with your beautiful new creations. So, what are you waiting for? Get started!

About the Author

Rob Pitt is a contributing writer to several hobbyist sites.

Did you find these tip on making gel candles useful? You can learn a lot more about how to make gel candles at Gel Candle Recipes 101