Everything You Need to Know About Gel Candles
What is a Gel Candle?
Gel candles are crafted from a unique combination of polymer resin and mineral oil, carefully cut to ensure safety with respect to the flash point. When this gel is combined with a wick in a container, it creates exquisite transparent candles. The clarity of the gel allows it to emit about 40% more luminescence than regular paraffin wax, offering endless creative possibilities for candle makers.
How to Make Jelly Candles at Home
Mixing and Blending IngredientsTo make your own gel wax, you’ll need to mix the compound ingredients of mineral oil and resin. Ensure you follow safety guidelines, as Penreco holds the patent for gel wax (US Patent 5,879,694). Here are the basic temperature guidelines for working with gel:
- Mixing and blending: 203-221°F
- Pouring: 185-203°F
- Loss of air bubbles: 167-185°F
- Gel structure formation: 140-167°F
- Oven temperature for air bubble removal: 131-158°F
Selecting Glassware and WicksChoose glassware that can withstand hot liquids, such as votive glasses, tumblers, and brandy snifters. Avoid thin glassware to prevent breaking. When selecting wicks, zinc-cored wicks are recommended as they stand straight in hot gel. Trim wicks to less than 1/4" above the gel surface to ensure safe burning.
Adding Fragrance OilsUse only non-polar
fragrance oils with a flash point of 170°F or higher. Non-polar fragrances are essential for maintaining the safety and stability of the gel. Penreco recommends the following scent percentages for their Versagel™:
- Low Density Gel: 0-3%
- Medium Density Gel: 3%-5%
- High Density Gel: Up to 6%
Embedding ObjectsFor decorative purposes, use nonflammable items such as seashells, glass figures, marbles, and ceramic figures. Avoid using flammable materials like wood, plastic, and dried flowers. Dip objects in gel wax before embedding to prevent bubbles.
Benefits of Gel Candles
Long-Lasting Burn
Gel candles burn at least twice as long as paraffin wax candles. However, to maintain a good melt pool, larger wicks are required. Ensure thorough testing of your candles before selling to ensure consistent quality and performance.
Higher Luminescence
Due to the clarity of the gel, these candles emit about 40% more luminescence than paraffin wax candles, making them an attractive and bright addition to any space.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gel Candles
Are Gel Candles Safe?Yes! When using non-polar fragrance oils, the correct wick, and following recommended procedures, gel candles are as safe as any other candle. Always use caution with naked flames and educate others on candle safety.
How Long Do Gel Candles Burn?Gel candles burn at least twice as long as paraffin wax candles. Ensure larger wicks are used to sustain a good melt pool. Mass-produced gel candles in discount stores may fizzle out quickly due to small wicks.
Can I Make Gel Wax Myself?Making gel wax requires buying and mixing mineral oil and resin. Penreco’s specific cut of mineral oil ensures safety regarding the flash point. Market-available mineral oil may not meet these safety standards, so the end product’s safety rests with you.
What Grade of Gel is Best?There are three grades of gel: high (HP), medium (MP), and low (LP). The medium grade (MP) is most popular for its balance of fragrance capacity and firmness. High grade (HP) holds more fragrance and is stiffer, allowing for heavier embeds and less shifting during shipping.
Do I Need Specific Glassware?Use glassware suitable for hot liquids, such as votive glasses, tumblers, and champagne flutes. Avoid using wood and plastic materials, as they can be porous or melt.
Can I Use Any Candle Fragrance Oil?No. Only use non-polar fragrance oils with a flash point of 170°F or higher. Polar fragrances can lower the flash point of the gel, making it unsafe. Ensure thorough mixing to avoid scent pockets and flares.
How Do I Get Rid of Bubbles?Hotter pours and preheating glassware can help reduce unwanted bubbles. Use metal spoons for stirring and pour gently to minimize bubbles. A heat gun or pencil torch can remove surface bubbles after pouring.
How Do I Package and Label My Candles?Packaging should be professional and attractive, using materials like cello bags, tulle, and shrink wrap. Labels should include your company name, contact information, candle weight, burn time, scent name, price, and burning/caution instructions.
By following these guidelines and best practices, you can create beautiful, safe, and long-lasting gel candles. Enjoy the process and let your creativity shine!
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