Candles are a popular addition to any home, offering a warm and inviting ambiance to any room. There are various mediums available to make candles, and gel wax has become a popular choice in recent years. It is a versatile medium that can be used to create a wide range of candle designs and is perfect for those who want to experiment with different decorating techniques.
If you have never used a gel wax
before, you might be surprised by how easy it is to work with and the unique properties it offers. Gel wax is transparent, allowing for endless possibilities in candle-making designs. It can hold an impressive amount of fragrance oil, making it a great choice for making highly scented candles. Additionally, gel wax has a longer burn time than other types of wax, making it a favorite among candle makers.
Whether you are new to using gel wax or it’s your go-to product, you will find the following six tutorials helpful in discovering different ways to decorate your candles. These tutorials showcase the versatility of gel wax and offer inspiration for creating beautiful and unique candles. From adding embellishments and textures to experiment with color and layering techniques, the possibilities are endless.
Gel wax is a fantastic medium for candle making, offering unique properties that make it stand out from other types of wax. Whether you are a seasoned candle maker or a beginner, the six tutorials on decorating candles with gel wax offer an excellent opportunity to learn new techniques and get inspiration for your next candle-making project. So, if you’re looking for a fun and creative way to decorate your candles, be sure to explore the possibilities of working with gel wax.
1- Basic Gel Candle Making from Craft Bits
2- Citrus Gel Candles from Amazingg Arts
3- Decorative Scented Gel Candle from Hub Pages
4- Jelly Jar Candle from Blah To Tada
5- Sea Shell Gel Candles from Craftionary
6- Fun Layered Gel Candle from How To Be Perfect Women
Gel wax offers many advantages over traditional waxes, such as its transparency, ability to hold fragrance and color, and longer burn time. However, making gel candles can be a bit tricky if you’re new to it. Here are some of my best tips for making gel candles.
Choose the Right Type of Gel Wax
There are different types of gel wax available, and choosing the right one is crucial for making successful gel candles. The most common type of gel wax is the clear gel, which is transparent and ideal for embedding objects or layering colors. If you want to make a frosted or opaque gel candle, you can use a translucent gel wax.
Use the Right Wick
Choosing the right wick is critical for any candle-making project, and it’s no different for gel candles. Gel wax has a different density than traditional wax, so you need to use a wick that can burn through the gel. Zinc core wicks are a popular choice for gel candles because they burn hotter and can penetrate through the dense gel. Make sure to choose a wick that is appropriate for the diameter of your candle.
Embed Objects Carefully
One of the unique properties of gel wax is its transparency, making it a great medium for embedding objects. However, it’s essential to embed objects carefully and evenly throughout the candle to avoid clumping or uneven burning. Before embedding objects, make sure they are heat-resistant and not flammable. You can use a skewer or chopstick to move the objects around to ensure they are evenly distributed.
Use Fragrance Oils for Maximum Scent
Gel wax has the ability to hold a large amount of fragrance oil, making it an ideal choice for making highly scented candles. However, it’s essential to use fragrance oils designed specifically for gel wax to ensure maximum scent throw. Fragrance oils designed for traditional wax might not work as well in gel wax, so make sure to use a fragrance oil that is compatible with gel wax.
Avoid Overheating the Gel Wax
Overheating the gel wax can cause bubbles and cloudiness in the final product. Gel wax has a lower melting point than traditional wax, so it’s essential to monitor the temperature carefully while melting the wax. Keep the temperature below 200 degrees Fahrenheit and stir the wax gently to avoid creating bubbles.
Add Colors and Sparkle
Gel wax offers endless possibilities for adding colors and sparkle to your candles. You can use liquid dyes or color blocks to add vibrant colors to your candles. For an extra touch of sparkle, you can add glitter or mica powder to the melted wax before pouring it into the container.
Experiment with Layering Techniques
Layering is a popular technique used in gel candle making to create a unique and artistic effect. You can layer different colors, embed objects between the layers, or use different textures to create an eye-catching design. Make sure to let each layer cool and harden before pouring the next layer to avoid creating bubbles.
Practice Proper Safety Measures
Candle-making involves working with hot wax and flames, so it’s essential to practice proper safety measures to avoid accidents. Make sure to work in a well-ventilated area and keep a fire extinguisher nearby. Use heat-resistant gloves and eye protection while working with hot wax. Keep any flammable materials away from the workspace.