Making Gel Candles is for Me

Step 1 Choosing the Proper Gel

Additives are not needed for making gel candles.

CG-1 Low Density Gel
Holds between 0-3% scent. Will allow the maximum burning pool.

CG-2 Medium Density Gel
Holds between 0-4% scent. The most widely used gel.

CG-3 High Density Gel
Holds between 0-5 % scent.

Step 2 Selecting Scents

You need to use scents that are non-polar and have a flash point of 170 degrees F when making gel candles. Other fragrances can migrate out of the gel and cause problems.

Step 3 Coloring Your Candles

For gel candles only liquid dyes should be used. Most other dyes are wax-based, which can cause the gel to become cloudy. Very little dye is needed when making gel candles. Generally one ounce can color nearly 100 pounds of gel. If using the clear container base (CCB-1), check out our pre-made color squares. The clear container color squares are not designed for use in CG-1, CG-2 or CG-3.

Remember, it's very easy to over color gels.

Step 4 Working With Wicks

Selecting the proper wick is critical with gel candles due to the higher burning temperatures of this product. It is also very important to select the proper sustainer base for the pre-wick assembly. The key element in the sustainer base is the "neck height," which is the part that holds the wick upright. A longer neck helps to ensure that the flame is extinguished before reaching the bottom of the container.

Step 5 Getting Glassware

Candlewic's offering of glassware continues to grow. The standard apothecary jars are always available in 15 oz., 22 oz. and 32 oz. sizes. Additionally, we are always looking for new and exciting glassware so make sure you check out the glassware section.

Step 6 The Right Tools for the Job

When making any type of candle it is important that you have all the necessary equipment to make quality candles.

Pouring Pots
These are needed to take your liquid wax and pour into your molds or containers.

Thermometer
No candle shop can be without this important tool.

Glue Dots
These handy little devices help to keep your wick centered in the glass when you pour the wax.

Wax Embeds
Candlewic has an extensive selection of wax embeds great to use with any of the standard gels. However, they are not suitable for the Clear Container Base.

Books
A good book will serve as a reference tool as well as including safety precautions.

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Need Advice? Ask Chandler!

Need Advice? Ask
Chandler!

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