Gel candles are popular because they are fun and easy to make.

Making gel candles is popular candlemaking because they are fun and easy to make and they last a long time. The best thing about gel is, if you don't like your handmade candle you can always take it apart and re-melt the gel to start over. Gel candles allow you to be creative in your candlemaking. You can embed flame resistant items into your handmade candles by using glitter, layer the colors, making seascapes from sand, shells and glassfish and handmade wax shapes or chunks.

How to make gel candles:

A few basic items that you will need to get started in making handmade candles are available on line. Containers, gels, glass or metal pots, wicks and clips and your kitchen stove (range), color, scent and embeds and a candy thermometer to make sure the temperature doesn't get too hot!! Once you have these basic tools you are ready for: How to make candles.

Safety Information:

Use scents that will with stand a high temperature. Do not use more than 1/2 oz of scent per lb of gel. Make sure scent is thoroughly mixed with your gel. Use glassware that is dishwasher safe. Do not use thin glassware or glassware that is cracked or chipped. Do not use glassware that has a narrow mouth. Try to use glassware with a mouth of at least 2 1/2 inches in diameter. Do not put flammable items in your gel candles. Do not burn the last inch of the candle.

How to make gel candles,

Make sure glassware is clean and free from dust, lint and moisture. Melt the gel on top of the stove (range) in a glass or metal pot set at a medium to low heat. Using a candy thermometer clipped to the side of your pot make sure temperature does not exceed 250 F. Crumbling gel wax helps control how bubbles form and assists in level heating. Measure and cut wick about 3 inches more than the height of your container. Thread wick through a clip and crimp down with pliers. Place the clip in bottom of container. You can place a small amount of gel to base of the clip to glue it to the bottom of the container to prevent the clip from moving when making the candle. Add your color as desired and stir well. (No wooden spoons). Remove gel from heat and add fragrance stirring constantly (be sure scent is throughout the gel). Pour gel into the container making sure the wick is center and straight. Adding gel a little at a time can help you to adjust the wick as needed before adding more gel. While the candle cools tug gently on the wick to keep it straight. Allow candle to cool and set over night, making your handmade candle ready to burn.

About The Author:

Jenny Bloom is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.fun-candle-making.com.