Gel Melts For Burners? Trust The Answer

How do you make Gel Wax Melts? by Becky Moss

We’re often asked how we make our gel wax melts (or jelly wax melts)… Without giving away our gel wax melt recipe, I thought I’d tell you a little about how our gel -Melts are made and share some behind the scenes here at Ella and I.

The main ingredients for gel wax melts are:

1. Gel Wax (sometimes called Jelly Wax)

2. Fragrance oils approved by gel wax

3. A wax melter

4. A great team

1. Gel Wax

Gel wax (or jelly wax) is made from mineral oil and polymer resin. It’s translucent and has the same consistency as the jelly cubes you would buy at the grocery store… making it really fun to use and work with. The gel gives you that super satisfying feeling as you peel the wax off your burner and leave with a clean tray. No fuss, no mess! (unlike traditional wax which gets stuck in your torch). Check out some of our Peely videos on our Instagram

2. High Quality Gel Wax Fragrance Oils

Smells are the first thing people notice when they enter a room. At Ella & I we have a wide range of luxury fragrances that have been rigorously tested by the noses of the Ella & I team 🙂 It’s always exciting when new fragrance samples arrive and are passed around the room.

Not all wax melt fragrance oils are suitable for gel wax. All of our oils have been specifically tested and approved for gel wax and are CLP compliant.

For a full list of our fragrances click on this link

3. A Wax Melter (aka Betty)

We started out making our melts in a soup kitchen on the dinner table. We then had to buy two more to keep up with demand. When we moved into our unit last year, we invested in an industrial wax melter (aka Betty). We are super grateful to Betty for giving us hot wax on tap! The hot jelly wax is then mixed with the fragrance oils and colorants before being hand poured into our pots.

4. A great team

Each gel melt is hand poured with care by our lovely team. I’ll add a picture here if we can get the team together 🙂

Come back MONDAY August 1st, you will see our new website with 30% discount 🎉🎉

There are many ways to scent your home, but some methods are easier – and better for your health – than others. If you’ve been spending any time on the internet lately, you’ll know that scented wax melters and wax warmers have taken over the home gadget market, and for good reason: they have the aesthetics of a candle while diffusing essential oils into the air like one diffuser.

1. Wax melts infused with essential oils can promote aromatherapy.

According to scientific studies, essential oils have the ability to interact with the brain and nervous system to affect mood and health. One of the easiest (and most enjoyable) ways to get these benefits is through aromatherapy, which involves inhaling these concentrated oils, which allow them to stimulate the olfactory system in the brain. High-quality wax melts, which are healthier for everyone, contain essential oil fragrances. These amazingly scented wax melts and wax warmers only require a few dabs of wax in your favorite scent to transform your office or home into a stress-relieving oasis – just make sure you buy wax melts that are infused with essential oils. For more tips on buying essential oil-infused wax melts, check out our blog post: 10 Wax Melts for Aromatherapy.

Studies show that using Lemon Verbena Wax Melts as part of a regular aromatherapy routine can dramatically improve energy levels and lift your spirits!

2. Wax melts are much easier to change scents.

If you’ve never used wax melts before, you might not know that one of the best parts about using wax melts is that you can change the scent in seconds! To change the smell of wax melts, you just need to “squeeze out” used wax. The problem with diffusers is that if you want to change scents – during the diffusion – you have to empty out the entire mixture of water and essential oils, which could get messy and waste expensive essential oils. With Wax Melts, once the wax has finished melting, you can easily take out used wax to change up the scent. The scent is already mixed into the wax, so you don’t have to deal with messy scents and essential oils.

Wax warmer with anti-scratch silicone shell

3. With Wax Melts, you don’t have to guess how much fragrance you need.

The problem with diffusers is that you’re constantly playing a guessing game when it comes to how much fragrance to use in your diffuser. If you add too much of the essential oil scent, you may be wasting expensive essential oils—or even creating a scent that’s too strong or harsh, requiring you to dump the scent out and start over. Fragrance companies have in-house perfumers who will blend the appropriate amount of fragrance oil into the wax, taking the guesswork out of your aromatherapy experience. When the wax melts are placed in their wax melter heater, the essential oils are released resulting in a delightful aromatherapy experience.

4. Wax melts are cheaper than essential oil diffusers.

To fully understand the benefits of choosing wax melts over diffusers, you need to weigh the cost of diffusers and essential oils against the overall cost of wax melts and wax melt warmers. Both diffusers and wax melters require two separate units to deliver their fragrance experiences. When diffusing, you need both an atomizer and essential oils to deliver this type of fragrance experience. You also need two components when melting wax: a wax melter and fragrant wax melts. The average cost of a 3-pack of essential oils is $29.99. In the 3-pack of essential oils, you typically get three 10-oz. Containers of essential oils and will therefore cost you about $10 per bottle of essential oils. Did you know that you get the same aromatherapy experience at half the cost when you switch to wax melts? Many wax melt companies have already blended the essential oils into the wax melts, so you’re still getting the same aromatherapy experience at a fraction of the cost. For example, each Happy Wax Classic can offers more than 100 hours of room fragrance experience. With approx. 24 wax melts in each Classic tin, this results in 8 hours of aromatherapy and fragrance time per wax melt. The cost of a single Classic Tin is typically around $12.95 but can reach as high as $10 per tin if you purchase 4 Classic Tins at a time! With 24 wax melts in each tin, if you use 2-3 wax melts each time this gives about 7x aromatherapy experiences! If you have to throw away moldy essential oil diffuser water that contains expensive essential oils, you could be wasting extra dollars that you could save by melting wax.

5. Diffusers can cause toxic mold.

As the craze for essential oils continues to grow and buyers seek safer, more natural alternatives for health and home care, natural home fragrances are also growing in popularity. Diffusers are devices that disperse essential oils into the air as a vapor. The vapor is created by combining essential oils with water, which is then compressed into a mist. The problem with diffusers is that they increase the amount of water in the air in your home and can lead to extra moisture in the air, which can therefore increase humidity levels and encourage mold and mildew growth. Additionally, if traces of water remain in the diffuser basin, it can contribute to the growth of mold and mildew. Mold and mildew spores love water and thrive in damp, humid conditions, so it’s best if you try to minimize the number of areas in your home where water can collect.

Mold and mildew caused by moisture buildup from diffusers.

6. Wax melting warmers come in a variety of styles, colors, and designs!

One problem with essential oil diffusers is that they all come in similar designs, shapes, and patterns. There doesn’t seem to be much choice on the market for diffusers that come in anything other than the teardrop shape with the oval opening at the top where the mist comes out. Wax melt warmers, on the other hand, come in a variety of shapes, styles, designs, and sizes. With wax melt warmers, you can customize them for small, medium, and large spaces—unlike diffusers that just seem like one size fits all!

7. Diffusers are only designed for large rooms.

Due to the limited shapes and sizes of diffusers available, they’re typically designed for large and medium-sized rooms – which doesn’t leave much room for small spaces like bathrooms or powder rooms. Wax melters and wax melters come in a wide range of sizes and shapes, intentionally designed to serve different sized spaces. For example, large tabletop wax warmers are designed to diffuse fragrance through very large spaces, such as a living room or bedroom. On the other hand, small plug-in wax warmers are designed to diffuse scents through smaller spaces like a bathroom or powder room. This is because small plug warmers can only hold 1-3 melts of wax without the wax overflowing/running out of the top of the warmer. Meanwhile, large table warmers are designed to hold larger amounts of wax that will emit a stronger, more powerful scent that can permeate very large spaces.

8. You can customize your own scent with wax melts.

One benefit of wax melting is that you can customize your scents by mixing wax melts! For example, you can mix wax melts like mixing ingredients to combine scents and create your own scent recipes. Here at the Happy Wax office, for example, one employee’s favorite recipe is to mix equal parts vanilla and espresso to create a wonderful latte scent – ​​we swear it smells just like a coffee shop! One Happy Wax customer even suggested mixing 1 part pumpkin casserole with 1 part vanilla sandalwood and 1 part cinnamon chai to create a wonderful apple pie scent!

You can customize your own scents with wax melts!

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A young mother was left homeless after a B&M wax burner exploded, causing a massive fire that destroyed her home.

Vikki Henvey, 33, was at a friend’s barbecue when she received a text from her neighbor that her second floor flat was on fire.

Full-time mom Tilly and baby Tilly, six months, found two fire engines putting out the fire that had already ripped through their two-bed home.

Firefighters said the 2.99-pound wax melter was to blame – although it wasn’t lit at the time.

Bizarrely, it is believed that sunlight reflected through a window off a mirror and an extinguished candle is re-lit inside the melting pot.

The fire damage at Vikki Henvey’s apartment

It heated up and exploded – setting her hallway on fire, spreading flames through every room in her home in Kingston upon Thames, Greater London.

Luckily, no one was injured and firefighters were able to carry Bruno the dog out of the flames and save his life.

Vikki said: “It was honestly a nightmare. I can’t believe it happened. I had a wax burner in every room of the apartment so it’s really scary.

“I was at my friend’s barbecue for about an hour and a half when my neighbor texted to say my apartment was on fire and I was obviously panicking because my dog ​​was inside.

The fire damage at Vikki Henvey’s apartment

“I was driving home and saw two fire engines outside with a firefighter holding my dog ​​who was literally black from the fire – he’s usually a brindle color.

“He was covered in burns but they got him out just in time – we almost lost him.

“There was all this smoke coming out of the windows and then the firefighters took me upstairs where I saw all the damage and I just literally collapsed.

“Firefighters said if it had happened at night there was no way we would have got out as the fire was at the front door and we live in a second floor apartment.

“My last property was broken into and we lost everything and now this has happened and it’s like I have to start all over again. It’s just devastating.”

Vikki bought the wax melter back in May 2021 for £2.99 from her local B&M store and has been using it regularly for the past few weeks.

She lit the wax burner the night before the fire for about an hour and blew out the tea light which sits in the holder melting the wax before she went to bed.

The fire damage at Vikki Henvey’s apartment

The next day, June 13, at lunchtime, she headed to her friend’s for a barbecue with baby Tilly, about 15 minutes from the apartment.

Vikki’s dog Bruno stayed at home in the hallway, behind a stair gate, where the wax burner sat on a wooden table next to a large mirror.

She said the firefighters told her they believed the sunlight had been reflected, causing the tea light to reignite and the ceramic holder to overheat and explode, causing the flames to spread.

The blast appears to have set the wooden table on fire, she said, before spreading through the apartment and igniting the flammable furniture.

Vikki said: “One firefighter told me they don’t even have to be on – he said where they overheat over a period of time they can actually explode.

The fire damage at Vikki Henvey’s apartment

“I lost everything in the apartment. Anything not damaged by fire is all ruined by the smoke and the fire hose. It stinks of damp up there – everything is black.

“My bed and all of Tilly’s baby things have to be thrown away.

“The lights have all melted and the hallway ceiling has now collapsed so I can’t even get back on the property.”

Since the fire, Vikki has been paying £49 a night to stay at a local Travelodge while she looks for a new home for her and her family.

She recently signed a lease on a new house but has to pay for all the new furniture as she didn’t have renter’s insurance for her belongings.

The fire damage at Vikki Henvey’s apartment

Vikki, who is suffering from trauma, said: “I had really bad nightmares. I wake up drenched in sweat every night.

“It really scared me to know that if it happened that night, we could have died.

“Bruno is also a baby – he’s 11 months old and now has panic attacks for about two hours every night before calming down.

“Every little noise wakes him up and makes him growl, which then wakes Tilly up – it’s just a nightmare.

“Hopefully he’ll calm down and come out soon but it’s been over a week now and nothing has changed.

The fire damage at Vikki Henvey’s apartment

“Since none of my furniture is insured, we lost everything. I never thought about insuring my stuff – I just didn’t think something like this would ever happen to me.”

The Essence Ceramic Oil Burner is described on the B&M website as being able to “provide a consistent and pleasant aroma in the home”.

A London Fire Brigade spokesman said: “Firefighters were called to a fire at a first floor flat on Fassett Road, Kingston on Sunday 13 June.

“Part of the hallway of the apartment was damaged by the fire. Firefighters rescued a dog from the property. There were no reports of injuries.

“The brigade was called around 1517 and the fire was under control by 1607. Two fire engines from Surbiton and Kingston Fire Stations were at the scene.

“Any product for your home that uses a candle is a risk, so just like single candles, tealights and incense sticks we would always advise caution when using them.

A wax burner similar to the one that started the fire in Vikki Henvey’s apartment.

“Candles are one of the most common causes of fire and should never be left unattended. When you leave the room and especially when you go out or go to sleep, blow them out.

“Any item that requires a candle should ensure it can be placed firmly in a heat-resistant holder and stored on a stable surface where it cannot be knocked over. You should also keep him away from flammable objects such as curtains and bedding. “

published on January 15, 2022

There are many different types of candles, but none is as unique as gel candles.

Gel candles look beautiful, especially when things like seashells, flowers, and other small decorations are embedded in the gel.

They also give off a unique glow that other candles can’t quite match.

But despite their uniqueness, are gel candles eco-friendly?

Although gel candles are beautiful, they are not environmentally friendly. Like regular paraffin wax candles, gel candles are made from crude oil by-products.

Is it worth the negative environmental impact for the beauty and uniqueness of gel candles?

In this article, we look at different aspects of it in terms of eco-friendliness, so you can decide for yourself.

1. What are gel candles made of?

Gel candles have a slightly different composition than traditional paraffin wax candles, but they’re actually made from pretty much the same source: crude oil.

Both gel candles and paraffin wax candles are both made from mineral oil, which is a by-product of crude oil refining.

However, paraffin candles are specially made with paraffin oil, which cools and forms white wax.

Gel candles are made from mineral oil (either paraffin oil or something else) combined with a small amount of powdered polymer resin, causing the oil to form a gel-like consistency.

The gel can be colored or clear, but scented oils are also added to give it a specific scent.

2. What is the difference between gel and regular candles?

Aside from the fact that gel candles are partially made of polymer resin in addition to mineral oil, there are a few other differences between gel candles and regular candles.

A key manufacturing difference is that gel candles are made with a different type of scented oil than regular candles, as gel holds the scent differently than paraffin wax.

But in terms of the candles themselves, gel candles have a longer burn time than paraffin candles.

This is because gel candles are not 100% wax. Since there is also polymer resin in the candle, it raises the melting point of the candle, so the gel doesn’t melt as quickly.

Gel candles also emit a different light than regular wax candles. Some people describe the glow of gel candles as richer, but essentially the light given off is brighter due to the transparency of the wax and the way it reflects the light.

But from an eco-friendly point of view, there is little difference between gel and paraffin candles.

3. Are gel candles environmentally friendly?

Gel candles are not environmentally friendly as they are made from a by-product of crude oil refining.

Crude oil must be collected through drilling, which can cause both pollution and habitat loss.

Then the oil has to be refined to be usable, which relies on laborious manufacturing processes that can contribute to more pollution.

Crude oil refining is also the third largest industrial emitter of greenhouse gases due to the equipment and processes used.

The mineral oil that most gel candles are made of is left over as a result of the refining process.

But you should keep in mind that gel candles are also partly made of polymer resin, i.e. plastic.

Plastic is also made from the refining of crude oil, but more chemical processing is required to make the resin.

This means more manufacturing processes are required and there may also be more pollution.

4. Are gel candles sustainable?

Gel candles are not sustainable as crude oil is a non-renewable resource.

Once all the crude oil is collected, it’s gone forever. This means that gel candles can no longer be crafted unless manufacturers find an alternative manufacturing method that gives them the same properties as gel candles made from crude oil.

Also, gel candles cannot be recycled as they could clog recycling machines.

5. Are gel candles biodegradable?

Gel candles are primarily made from mineral oil and studies have shown that the biodegradability of mineral oil is very low, typically between 15 and 35%.

In addition, gel candles are made not only from mineral oil, but also from polymer resin. Since polymer resin is a kind of plastic, it also has low biodegradability.

If gel candles were to biodegrade, they could release harmful chemicals into the environment, both from the gel and the polymer resin it contains.

6. Are gel candles compostable?

Since gel candles have low biodegradability, they do not compost well either.

That’s because composting is essentially human-controlled biodegradation.

But even if it did, it would have the potential to leach chemicals into the compost.

7. Are gel candles safe?

There is no evidence that gel candles are unsafe in terms of toxicity.

Gel candles are made from similar substances to paraffin candles and there have been concerns about the possibility of paraffin candles releasing toxic substances such as benzene and toluene into the air.

However, studies have shown that when used as directed, scented candles pose no risk to consumers.

However, there is always a possibility of fire hazard when burning candles, gel or not.

It’s important to keep flammable products away from candles and to ensure you don’t leave them unattended for long periods of time.

8. Are gel candles vegan?

Gel candles are vegan as they are made from crude oil by-products and not animal products.

9. Are gel candles reusable?

It is possible to reuse the gel wax from gel candles. But for this you need to take it out of the jar and put it in a bowl yourself.

Melt the wax in the oven for about an hour, then pour it into a new container.

Note that you probably won’t have a lot of wax, but this can be a great way to reuse the gel from multiple candles if the wax level is too low to burn or the wick breaks off.

10. Are gel candles better than wax candles?

Gel candles are better than wax candles because they have the potential to burn twice as long and give off a brighter glow.

But in terms of eco-friendliness, neither gel nor paraffin wax candles are better as they are not sustainable, recyclable, biodegradable or compostable.

Other types of wax candles, such as beeswax and soy wax candles, are more environmentally friendly than gel candles, but still don’t burn as long as gel candles.

Find out more about eco-friendly candles as an alternative to paraffin-based candles here.

4 eco-friendly alternatives to gel candles

With the exception of paraffin wax, most other types of wax candles are more environmentally friendly than gel wax.

These wax candles come from plant or animal sources, and some are better than others. But they are all sustainable and biodegradable compared to gel wax.

1. Beeswax

Beeswax candles are one of the most environmentally friendly candles out there.

Beeswax is sustainable and can be produced and harvested all over the world.

The only downside to beeswax is that it’s not technically vegan, although some people accept it as a vegan product because bees aren’t harmed during the harvesting of the wax.

Learn more about beeswax candles here.

2. Coconut Wax

Coconut wax candles are another very eco-friendly and sustainable option.

Although growing coconuts contributes somewhat to deforestation, once mature, coconut palms produce a very high yield.

Also, most coconuts are grown without the use of pesticides, and the coconut wax itself does not emit toxic fumes when burned.

3. Palm wax

Palm wax is another type of natural wax used to make candles.

It’s more eco-friendly than gel wax, but not as eco-friendly as beeswax and coconut wax.

The biggest problem with palm wax is that growing palm trees contributes to deforestation.

However, palm wax is a natural wax that comes from renewable raw materials and is also biodegradable.

4. Soy Wax

Most candles that aren’t made from gel wax or paraffin wax are made from soy wax instead.

Of the natural waxes, soy wax is the least environmentally friendly.

But despite all the downsides, soy wax is still a better choice than gel wax because it comes from a renewable resource and is also biodegradable.

Learn more about soy wax candles here.

Conclusion

Although gel candles look very different from paraffin wax candles in appearance, the two are quite similar when it comes to environmental friendliness.

Gel candles are still made from crude oil by-products, the gel is just processed differently, with added polymer resins to give it that gel-like consistency.

One of the advantages of gel wax candles is that they last longer than wax candles because they burn slower.

But if you want to be more environmentally friendly, then gel candles are not the answer. Try candles made from soy, palm, coconut, or beeswax instead.

Check out the best natural, eco-friendly candle options in our dedicated article here.

How do I know wax melts are safe?

When we created Cozy Aromas in 2018 we wanted to make sure we were using the best possible ingredients, which meant we were not only sourcing amazing and highly scented fragrances, but that the end product was safe to use.

What do we mean by safe to use?

We mean exactly that!

We want you to have peace of mind that while you sit back and enjoy the beautiful aromas diffusing throughout your home, you can do so with the confidence that your wax melts are not releasing any harmful chemicals.

To achieve this, we looked at the three main components of a wax melt, so let’s look at each one individually.

We chose soy wax because it has a lower melting point, meaning there is less risk of burns from spills. It also contains no chemicals and is 100% natural.

What are the benefits of 100% natural soy wax?

Soywax is made from the soybean, yes it’s a vegetable but no it doesn’t count towards one of your 5 a day if you melt it!

And because it’s made from soybeans, it says:

Harmful chemicals are absent

Does not affect fragrance release

It is non-toxic so it is safe to melt away from children and animals

Properly disposed of, it is environmentally friendly

Easy to clean from most surfaces

As a responsible company, we want to limit our carbon footprint as much as possible, so choosing soy wax from a renewable source was an important aspect of our wax melt venture.

All the fragrances we use have been carefully selected and fully comply with IFRA (International Fragrance Association) regulations.

What does IFRA mean to me?

IFRA means that the compounds used in synthetic fragrances have been approved (through rigorous scientific testing) as completely safe for use in your home.

This also means that each home fragrance manufacturer is responsible for ensuring that these guidelines are followed.

For example, the correct percentage of fragrance is mixed with its soy wax counterpart.

Why do you use synthetic fragrances instead of essential oils?

Synthetic fragrances are designed for use in home fragrance products, making them ideal for wax melts. They are also:

Not tested on animals

cruelty free

Vegan friendly

paraben free

Did you know that various essential oils are toxic to pets? While the scents are nice, if you use wax melts or candles scented with essential oils, you could be unknowingly harming your beloved pets.

All our wax melts come with CLP (Classification, Labeling and Packaging) information labels to identify key factors as per legislation.

I have a dog who likes to get involved with everything. Are your wax melts safe to use around them?

In short: yes!

At Cozy Aromas HQ we are accompanied every day by our adorable Border Collie Willow.

Despite being a discerning madame, she is more than content to be around highly scented wax melts throughout the day, due to the fact that we use natural wax and synthetic fragrances.

We would never do anything that would put them at risk, and that includes the ingredients we use in their business.

**Just remember that wax melts are NOT consumable and should be kept safely out of the reach of children and animals.

At Cozy Aromas we are proud to bring you vibrantly colored wax melts. I mean who doesn’t want a little more color in their life?

We have researched and extensively tested the best dyes on the market. And to our delight, we’ve found the ideal ones.

We can say with confidence that these colors will last a long time.

Did you know that we match our product labels to the color we make the wax in?

So a sneaky little tip… pay attention to the background color on the labels to know in advance what color the wax will be.

So just in case you’re still wondering… Why should you choose Cozy Aromas?

Each and every one of our products is hand measured, blended and poured to ensure the quality and long lasting fragrance to enjoy in your home.

Our ingredients are carefully selected not only to melt to an excellent standard and give a strong fragrance throw, but also with your well-being and health in mind.

As a company we are still considered newcomers to the home fragrance industry and our entire team does their best to ensure that every wax melt is something they would love to take home themselves.

If you would like to learn more about the creative minds behind Cozy Aromas, follow the links below:

Meet the team: Tamar

Meet the team: Paul

Candle Wax Blends – Can you mix paraffin and soy wax?

You don’t have to use candle wax straight out of the box! Wax blends make better candles.

Mixing paraffin and soy candle wax results in a stable blend that is easier to work with. There are 6 main types of waxes used in candle making. Each wax has a number of unique properties that when combined with another wax can result in a candle wax blend that is smooth, creamy and easy to work with.

Candle makers often create their own blends for the many uses of waxes. Most who make candles also make wax melts or tarts. It’s chemistry, art, and imagination that make this craft so fun.

Before you can mix waxes, it’s important to have a general understanding of each wax. You need to know why you want to mix waxes. It is also important to understand what the possible outcome will be or what your goal is.

Always consider candle recipes as a starting point for your experiments. I keep a notebook and as the candle making process progresses I learn the properties of each wax readily available to you.

All candles must be tested. I have included affiliate links to help you with your candle making. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post through affiliate links to products or services related to content in this article.

When making candles, you need to test your product to get the best combination. Here’s a great resource to document your process. I give you my affiliate link here.

Candle Making Workbook by GratitudeStudiosShop

First, understand the types of candles. The most popular are containers, pillars, votives, tea lights, candles and then the specialty such as carved, levitating or massage.

The type of candle you want to make will determine the properties of the wax you need to use.

Second, understand the types of candle wax. There are beeswax, paraffin, palm, bay, coconut, soy and gel.

Third, understand the types of candle wax additives. There is stearin or stearic acid, Vybar, plastics and dyes. Make sure you’re buying the right Vybar – learn more here.

The choice of candle wax to start with depends on the type of candle you want to make.

Container candles are the most popular and are usually made from soy wax. This is the type of candle I make the most. When I first started making soy candles, I didn’t know soy wax could be so spirited. That’s when I learned to mix waxes.

Soy candle wax is a soft wax used in containers. It does not always stick to the glass, leaving wet stains or frost. It often craters and looks terrible at the top.

I did some troubleshooting in an article if you want to stick with pure soy and read more about it here.

Unless you’re making claims of “100% soy,” adding about 10% paraffin wax to your soy wax will alleviate some of the problems. I’ve found that this mix can also add a little pop to wax melt bars when using soy tart wax.

Some candle makers add a tablespoon per pound of coconut oil to their soy wax and swear by it. I never got it working.

Pillar candles are made from harder waxes that can stand on their own. The wax has a higher melting point. Here is an article on how to melt the candle wax.

Learn how to care for candles so they last longer in this article here.

Some waxes such as beeswax and laurel wax are so hard that they break when making rolled candles. This would be the only time I would add a softer wax for a makeover. Rolled columns are made while the wax is still warm and pliable.

Pillar waxes are also cast at a higher temperature, usually around 180 F. This is when the wax has expanded into its greatest state. As it cools in shape, the wax shrinks and collapses in on itself. Pillar waxes need to be poured a second time to fill in the shrinkage gap.

Using paraffin candle wax and mixing in about 30% soy candle wax almost eliminates the need for a second pour and makes a beautiful pillar candle. This candle blend is the closest thing to a pillar soy candle you can get.

With some experimentation with wick size and candle height, a paraffin soy blend could probably be further developed to have a higher soy content.

Votive and tealight candles can be made from any blend of candle wax. Votive candles are often meant to be burned in a holder, and tea lights are mini container type candles.

Carved candles must be made from paraffin. The outer shell needs to be flexible to allow the wax to be shaped. A pillar wax into which soy has been incorporated is brittle. Carved candles often have cores. The candle core can be a mixture.

Materials for making carved candles from CarvedCandles4ever

Carved candles are works of art and are sometimes dipped in clear acrylic to preserve them. The colorant used is a pigment and not a dye. This mixture prevents the layers from bleeding into each other.

The mixing of candle wax occurs during the melting process. The candle wax should be heated to about 180 F and tempered for about 5 minutes.

There is no chemical reaction with the wax. The melting process allows the wax to mix and take up the same space as a sponge holding water. Because of this, some blends work better than others.

Candle wax blends within the same base are more stable. Candle waxes are either vegetable (vegetable) bases or petroleum bases.

Another type of wax blending that we haven’t talked about yet is layering. Using different waxes in the same candle can create works of art that are unique and fun. This is often found in making candles that look like food.

If you want recipes for food style candles, I have an article on getting started with the most popular candles ->here.

What is the best wax to start with?

IGI 6006 Soy Blend. It’s a creamy smooth candle wax with few issues. IGI 6006 provides consistent results for novice candlemakers.

related posts

All about candle waxes

Beeswax – is a hard natural wax that is harvested and used in a line of candles that would represent a natural product. See natural candle making.

It is a stable column wax.

It is a deep yellow and naturally has a slight smoky odor.

It is often sold unscented or paired with scents such as lavender.

It is also available as a refined product that has been deodorized and bleached.

Beeswax has a glossy finish.

Paraffin is a hard, petroleum-based candle wax and is most commonly used commercially for pillar candles.

It has a glossy finish and is flexible when warm.

There is a canned paraffin wax that is NOT intended for candles.

Palm wax is a hard palm oil pillar wax.

It is very similar to paraffin but is the natural version of wax.

It can also be used in container candles.

It has a high melting point.

This wax has a unique look to the finish.

It has a crackly but shiny appearance.

Bayberry is a natural wax made from cooked laurel berries, collecting the wax that rises to the surface of the water.

This is a traditional colonial era plunge candle.

It is a hard, sweet-smelling wax and is used to make luxury candles.

It is not readily available and will be skipped.

You can order it online and there are still some artisans making this candle.

Coconut is a mixture of coconut meat and other waxes.

Most manufacturers won’t tell you what this blend is, but if they call it para-coconut, it’s most likely paraffin.

If you do not know the starting point of this mixture when you buy it, it can cause problems when using this wax in a recipe between different manufacturers.

Soy is a natural vegetable candle wax.

This is the most popular and readily available.

It is marketed as a pillar, cake, and container wax, each with unique qualities and properties.

Soy candle wax can be one of the trickiest jobs.

When you buy a pillar or tart soy wax, it is also a wax blend and the starting point of that blend is unknown.

We refer to soy candle wax in the 100% state to avoid confusion.

The most popular is the Golden Wax 464.

It is commonly used for container candles.

Soy wax can also be used for wax melts from either molds or plastic clamshell containers. Wax melts are made from soy tart wax.

Gel candle wax is not wax.

It is a petroleum gel that is a resin. (95% mineral oil, 5% resin)

It has a jelly-like consistency and is used because it is clear.

It has a high melting point.

This candle is usually decorative and is made as a candle within a candle.

Understanding the properties of different candle waxes will help us understand the different types of candles and the relationship between wax types.

Pillar waxes don’t work well in a container and container waxes don’t hold up on their own. We can make blends of these to take advantage of the wax’s best properties to solve problems or take advantage of the benefits each has to offer.

In addition, the ratio of blended waxes can be adjusted to capture a characteristic of a particular wax without losing the primary quality of the base wax.

The most common base candle waxes are paraffin and soy. It is also the wax most commonly sold as a blend and is called Parasoy. I buy this premixed by the case.

You can mix paraffin with soy wax to make it harder or smoother or to keep the scent.

Do some test batches with a mixture of 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50% and so on.

Adding 10-20% paraffin candle wax to soy candle wax makes the wax harder and dissolves better to make cake melting wax. It also gives the wax a glossy finish. This requires testing, so make sure you test your recipes.

Too much paraffin and the wax will be too difficult to break apart for wax melts.

Adding paraffin to soy can also reduce associated glazing and cratering or blooming. This can help get a smoother top every time once you find the perfect ratio to work with your soy blend.

You can mix beeswax with soy wax, similar to mixing paraffin. If you’re marketing your candles as an all-natural line, the beeswax will help stabilize your soy wax without adding chemicals or petroleum products. Paraffin is not a natural product, so this would be the way to go.

You can add palm wax with soy wax similar to mixing paraffin and beeswax. Palm wax is not as glossy and has crystalline properties as soy wax, but it is a harder wax.

This blend could create a matte, creamier finish with the desired hardness. It is also a natural product and sustainable and your marketing should take that into account.

Another benefit of adding a harder wax to soy wax is the wax’s ability to retain fragrance load. In general, a harder wax won’t hold as much fragrance oil, so be careful not to overload your mix. However, a harder wax has a better hot action as it releases the fragrance charge more slowly.

A soft wax holds more scent by weight but also releases the scent load faster.

Some additives can change the properties of the candle wax to change the benefits without mixing wax types.

Additives can be added to candle waxes to manipulate their properties.

Stearic acid or Vybar can be used to help with fragrance retention and make the wax a little harder. Paraffin is flexible when warm. Paraffin is often added to release the candle from a mold.

Fragrance load also affects the density of the wax mix and can change the stability of your candle. Read more about calculating how much scented oil a candle should have.

Vybar can also increase the shine of candle wax. Read here which Vybar you should use.

I’ve never had a problem releasing from a mold, but I’ve never rushed a process for production either. Commercially, I could see rapid cooling and mold release, but that’s not for me. Alternatively, wipe the mold with a paper towel with vegetable oil and it will come off nicely.

Related Post: A Complete Guide to Candle Shapes

However, if you’re making storm candles, it would be a huge benefit. A storm candle is paraffin candle on the outside and soy candle on the inside. Adding the stearic acid to the paraffin would make it harder and help hold it while the soy candle burns inside. This is a combination of paraffin and soy wax with no mix.

Now that you know how to make a candle wax harder, you can also make a candle wax softer.

Make a wax mix that goes the other way. Paraffin has better hot throw but is a terrible container wax. It needs to be poured a second time and usually has a sinkhole.

We can mix 10-20% soy candle wax into our paraffin wax or pure beeswax to make it more suitable for a container but still have the hot throw of paraffin wax.

Learn how to make natural beeswax candles in containers. This container candle is very popular.

Again, testing is important, but see what I’m getting at? It is possible to make a container of candle wax that has the properties of a harder wax and vice versa without any problems.

One thing I learned from harder waxes in a container candle is that they burn hotter and longer. The container should stay cooler than 175 F when firing and harder waxes can overheat in a container.

A container candle exudes fragrance from the molten wax basin. A candle wax blend that uses up the fragrance oil faster than the wax blend can evaporate, leaving a candle that weakens over time as it burns.

I have some candles that burn for a long time but the scent fades. These are the candles that initially smell nice and then we wonder what happened after we burned them down once or twice. This is a disadvantage of adding too much hard wax to a container of candle wax for a mix.

Coconut wax and apricot wax (new to the market) are good examples of a candle wax blend. If you take the time to research and develop your candle in the beginning (don’t stop learning and testing) you will save a lot of time to fix candles with problems. Make some candle recipes for yourself. You can mix soy wax with coconut wax.

Adding a tablespoon of coconut oil or vegetable oil per pound of soy wax will help get smoother ends after you’ve poured.

Increasing this ratio of liquid oil to wax makes the candle wax extremely soft. This is how wickless candles, scoopable melts and squeezable melts are made. These are not burned. The candle wax is mixed with other oils and serves as a carrier oil for the fragrance oil. When heated, they release the scent like a molten wax.

Massage candles are a balance to this. They still burn like a candle, but the wax liquefies at low temperature, so the warm pool is skin-friendly. Test of course! They are often wax blends with hard butters like shea and cocoa.

Here is my candle recipe for massage candles which is a mixture of waxes and additives if you want to learn more about this type of candle ⇒ Click here

Beeswax is used in many lipstick and lip balm formulas, but this wax blend is much softer than the candle.

A few additives are worth noting as trying to achieve something you see commercially isn’t always feasible as a crafter. let me explain. I mentioned additives like plastic. That’s the simplest name I can give you for the chemicals that are added to traditional soy waxes.

Some are marketed as soy wax, but chemicals are added to make them suitable for pies or shells. While there’s nothing wrong with them, they’re not pure soy.

You can buy “shining crystals” and melt them down to add to your candle wax. They have to be in a molten state and the cleaning is outside of what I normally do.

Candle wax blends also introduce changes to your colorant formulations. Liquid candle dyes work well with soy wax, but not paraffin. The liquid works, but stir in while hot. Candle dye chips work better when using paraffin.

Candle pigment or mica do not mix with both but are suspended. The pigment is used to dip different colored candles. Candle dye will change color over time.

Using pigment (mica) in the core of a candle will clog the wick and not burn properly.

Gel candle wax mixes more easily with paraffin wax than with soy wax. Gel wax has a high melting point of around 180 degrees Fahrenheit. Paraffin melts at around 140 and soy at around 120 degrees Fahrenheit.

Paraffin is fine at such high temperatures, but be careful not to burn soy. Since paraffin and gel are both petroleum based, I think they are a better match. These can be mixed to create special effects such as B. Opaque waxes that you would see in food style candles.

Creating candle recipes

A candle recipe always starts with the type of candle you want to make. This is the base candle wax to use and should make up at least 50% – 70% of your formula.

Almost any candle can be a container candle, but a pillar candle must be at least 70% hard wax. The softer the wax, the less it will hold its shape. A wax that doesn’t come out of the mold well is usually too soft, and wax also melts. Melted wax or molded wax figures can be used to decorate candle cores.

You can mix multiple waxes. You can make soy candles using 90% GB464, 10% paraffin and add 1 tablespoon coconut oil per pound to make a candle. You can replace paraffin with beeswax and it is an all natural candle.

Mix 50% paraffin with 50% soy for better hot throw and more even texture when pouring. Try a 60/40 mix and maybe add coconut wax to reduce sinkholes.

All of these recipes need to be tested with different wicks and scents. Imagine developing a method that eliminates the need for heat finishing on your candle tops.

How much time would you save? Can you make a better candle? Try it!

The best part is that at this level of candle making you are no longer a candle maker. They can be a high end candle shop. A luxury blender candle is worth more and is fun.

How to make candle wax transparent for a storm candle

Some candle supply stores carry pure paraffin wax, which is naturally opaque. It may be better known as IGA 1218, which is a bit more opaque than IGI 1343. You need to add something called paraflint, or translucent crystals, to the wax.

These clear crystals are sold at Candlechem.com. Be sure to follow their instructions. Lone Star Candle Supply actually carries a hurricane wax blend made for you.

With this type of wax mix, you can create a shell that lets light through, with the embeds visible as shadows from the flame. The hurricane candle wall can be up to half an inch thick and still let light through.

This effect can also be used to create special embeds that require depth, such as B. wax crystals or in the production of geodetic candles. The effect can appear glassy with added color and mimic gemstones well.

Gel wax can also be mixed with soy wax to alter opacity. Gel wax can also be mixed with paraffin wax.

These wax blends alter appearance to create different tones and color saturations that cannot be achieved with candle stamping alone.

Transparent wax like gel wax can be layered into a candle to show embeds or to create artistic effects you would see in natural objects like stone.

Gel wax can be used as the outer shell of a candle with a candle jar inside as a storm candle. Gel wax can be completely transparent or colored or blended with other waxes.

Using a high density gel wax is like using a pillar wax and does not need to be made in a container. It has limits for detailed shapes and is better suited for simple shapes. It can be a little wobbly.

Gel wax is made up of 95% mineral oil and 5% resin. A slight change in this percentage makes the gel slightly harder or softer.

Frequently asked questions about gel candles

What is gel?

Gel is essentially a combination of polymeric resin and mineral oil that cuts with exceptional safety for flash point. Combined in a container with a wick, you get exquisite transparent candles. Due to the clarity of the gel, it emits approximately 40% more luminescence than regular paraffin wax. The possibilities with gel wax are endless.

Are gel candles safe?

Yes! If you use non-polar fragrance oils with Penreco gel, tested for the correct wick and also followed the recommended procedures for making gel candles, the safety factor is no different than other candles. It can be argued that all candles are unsafe because of the open flame, so use caution and caution when burning all types of candles and educate others about the safety aspects of burning with candle care tips. See below for information on non-polar fragrances.

How long do gel candles burn?

Gel burns at least twice as long as paraffin wax. Because of this, you will find that you need to use larger wicks to maintain a good weld pool. Many of the bulk gel candles available in discount stores fizzle out within a few minutes of being lit because the wick is too small. As always, make sure you test everything thoroughly before offering it for sale to the public.

Can I make gel wax myself?

There is a very fine legal line here. Penreco holds a patent for the manufacture of gel wax – Versagel is a trademark of Penreco Corporation (US Patent 5,879,694). If you decide to make your own gel wax, you will need to purchase the compound ingredients of mineral oil and resin and mix them together. Penreco uses a very narrow mineral oil cut that offers safety in terms of flash point. The mineral oil available on the market does not have to comply with the safety standards applied by Penreco; Therefore, the safety of your end product and any candles made from it rests with you.

Which type of gel is best?

No variety is “better” than the other as the different grades (densities) of gel work equally well depending on the context in which they are used. There are three grades/densities – High Grade (HP), Medium Grade (MP) and Low Grade (LP). The most popular gel quality among candle makers is Medium Polymer (MP) as it allows for more fragrance and is a firm gel that works in most projects. The HP quality is more expensive but contains significantly more fragrance and is a stiffer gel. The extra stiffness means not only can you embed heavier items, but it doesn’t suffer as much in shipping as it doesn’t shift as much as lower grades.

Do I have to use certain glassware?

The most important thing to consider when choosing glassware for your gel candles is to make sure the thickness is suitable for hot liquids. Anything too flimsy can potentially strain the glassware and cause it to break. Glassware such as votive glasses, tumblers, ivy bowls, champagne flutes, tumblers, brandy snifters, and candy dishes are all suitable for gel candles—just make sure the opening is at least 2 inches in diameter. You also need to be aware that materials like wood are too porous for gel wax and plastics can melt when the candle burns.

Can I use any candle scented oil in my gel?

No! If you’ve heard scare stories in the media about gel candles exploding, it probably has to do with the scented oil used. It is IMPORTANT to use a NON-POLAR fragrance oil with a flash point of 170° or higher. The flash point of Penreco Versagel™ Medium Density Gel is 430°F. The flash point indicates the temperature at which the gel catches fire.

The melt pool of a gel candle is about 275°F and a fire is only likely when the melt pool is close to 440°F. However, this can only happen if the flash point of the gel is lowered by adding fragrance. Fragrances have a lower flash point than gel, so the addition lowers the overall flash point of the candle.

A polar scent can potentially degrade gel strength and lower the gel’s flash point to a dangerously low level. The other potential hazard of using a polar scent is that it may not mix with your gel and cause pockets of scent in your candle. The separation of the FO and gel isn’t always visible to the eye, so you can’t be sure it didn’t happen simply by looking at the candle. If the flame reaches a pocket of scent, your candle is likely to flare up. It is important to use non-polar fragrances.

Polarity is not an issue with wax paraffin candles and that is due to the melt pool temperature. The melt pool of a wax candle averages 170°F. Wax does not burn as hot and is more forgiving than gel in terms of fragrance flash point limitations.

DO NOT overscent your gel. Penreco lists the following recommendations for their Versagel™:

Low Density Gel: 0-3% (1/2 ounce per pound)

Medium Density Gel: 3%-5% (3/4 ounces per pound)

High Density Gel: Up to 6% (1 ounce per pound)

Finally, you need to mix your fragrance oil with gel very well. To do this, stir your gel for at least two minutes – just like you would with wax. Yes, stirring will cause more bubbles, but these can be eliminated by reheating the gel once the fragrance is thoroughly mixed in. Incomplete blending of fragrance can potentially cause an erratic burning flame and pockets of fragrance as described above.

We strongly recommend buying fragrance oils that are specifically formulated for use in gel wax – and only buying from reputable sources. If the retailer or supplier doesn’t list their fragrances as safe for gel, you need to determine the flash point of the FO and test it for polarity. Even if a supplier lists their fragrance as “gel safe,” be sure to question how that determination is made and verify proper testing methods. It’s still a good idea to test a small amount from each new batch for easy verification – even if it’s labeled “gel safe” by the supplier. Manufacturers occasionally make unintentional mistakes and there can be slight batch-to-batch variations – so it’s best that you take responsibility for testing and leave no doubt.

Tip for scent measurement:

60 drops = 1 tsp.

1 tsp = about 1/8 ounce.

(scent weight varies)

How do I make a gel candle?

The ideas and creativity are limitless! You should follow some basic security guidelines, but the rest is up to you. Here are some general tips:

Mixing and blending other ingredients into the gel: 203-221°F

Pouring gel from one container to another: 185-203°F

Loss of air bubbles: 167-185°F

Solidification of the liquid into a gel structure: 140-167°F

Oven temperature to remove air bubbles from gel base: 131-158°F (This can also be achieved by placing a candle on a sunny windowsill)

Forget using the microwave to melt gel – it just doesn’t work and can be unsafe because it heats unevenly. Presto pots (kitchen kettles), glass pots, and metal pots can be used, and an electric griddle also works well. Glass jars are great to use. You can watch the gel as color is added. It is best to have a pot or glassware with a spout. You’ll spill less if you pour it into your containers or glassware. If you don’t have a spout, a ladle can be used. THE MELTING GEL MUST BE SUPERVISED AT ALL TIMES. Never leave melting wax unattended, especially gel wax.

Invest in a thermometer that shows the ranges in the table above. These are available from many candle makers if a candy thermometer is not suitable. This must-have gadget allows you to be consistent with your casts and any special effects you may want to achieve once you master the art. Make sure the area you are pouring your gel into is stable and level. Like water, gel finds its own level and if the surface is uneven, the gel will harden crookedly in your candle.

What kind of wick should I use?

Wick sizes vary and must be tested to ensure they will work with the gel and additive combination. Different container sizes and combinations of additives (colors, fragrance, etc.) can affect how the candle burns. Cotton and paper core braided wicks are not generally used in gel candles, while zinc core wicks stand straight in hot gel during manufacture and burning. Wick length and placement are important details that can contribute to candle safety. Wicks should be trimmed to less than 1/4″ above the gel surface. Large wicks may produce a very large flame with uneven burning which, if not placed properly, can cause localized overheating of the container and “pool”. Such conditions can cause uneven thermal dissipation, a potentially unsafe condition. Pre-glued wicks, which prevent the wick from going down, work best. Adding a backing such as gravel, glass beads, or shells will hide the tab. Some wicks are coated with wax. This coating sometimes causes bubbles in the gel. It is best to always give your wicks a light coating or pre-coating of gel to prevent this from happening.

To attach your wick to the bottom of the candle, dip the tab in some gel and press down on the bottom of your container. You can use a little hot melt glue on the tab to attach it to the bottom. Place your bottom decorations around the base of the wick. Multiple wicks can be used for very large candles or for design effects. One wick should be used for every 3 to 4 inch candle diameter.

Here are some basic wicking guidelines for gel candles, but as always, test in your particular application:

44-24-18 Zinc: 2″ – 3 1/2″ diameter containers

51-32-18 Zinc: 3″ – 4″ diameter containers

60-44-18 Zinc: 4″ – 5″ diameter containers

LX-18: 2 1/2″ – 3 1/4″ diameter tanks

What are embeds and how do I use them?

Embeds are items that can be placed in the gel wax to add creativity, character and stunning beauty to the candle. It is extremely important that only non-combustible items are used as decorative embedments in gel candles! Items such as seashells, glass figurines, marbles, stones, ceramic/porcelain figurines, brass pendants, and wax embeds work well with gel candles. Items such as cinnamon sticks, silk flowers, plastic figurines, potpourri, candy (sugar is flammable!), dried fruit, paper, wood, etc. CANNOT be safely placed in gel candles! Porcelain is finely ground white clay, shaped and fired in a kiln at 1200 degrees for eight hours. Finished with a glazed, underglazed or “biscuit colored” finish. The glazing produces a high gloss; Underglaze creates a matte finish. Bisque is a matte finish with no glaze. After completion, the product is “cooked” at 800 degrees for six hours.

Bone china is white clay with bone ash added. Bone ash content must be at least 25% according to US guidelines. Fired at 1800 degrees. The translucent material is finished with a glaze or underglaze (matt). Lighter, stronger, more expensive than porcelain. Alabastrite is a mixture of rock and limestone held together with a resin-based glue. It may be flammable on direct contact with a flame.

Before embedding an object, it is best to first dip it in gel wax and let it cool. This gives the embedding a light coating that helps prevent unwanted bubbles once placed in the candle.

One way to ensure safety when burning gel candles when using combustible embeds is to use a method called “double glazing”. This involves using a large container (e.g. an ivy bowl or fish bowl) and placing a smaller clear glass container (e.g. a votive glass). Place the decorative embedding items in the outer shell surrounding the votive glass and fill with clear, unscented gel. Vacuum the inner jar and fill with scented gel. The inner glass keeps the burning candle contained and the flame away from contact with the decorative embedments, creating a safe and refillable candle. Customers can bring these back for refills, or you can make pre-scented yellow nuggets and package them in a wicked pouch and sell them as do-it-yourself refills.

How do I get rid of blisters?

Ahhhhh, the never ending bubble question from Gellers! Bubbles fall into two categories: wanted and unwanted!! Bubbles are often desired in candles such as champagne glasses or other bubbly beverage designs. More often you want to get rid of them. Hotter fonts are generally the answer. Preheating or warming the glassware you’re pouring into will help. Keep an eye on the items you embed or add to the gel as they can often create bubbles and some wicks.

When working with the gels, use metal spoons rather than wooden ones, as wooden objects tend to cause bubbles. Pour gently on the side or close-up, similar to pouring a beer, to avoid a large head of foam! When your gel sets, a heat gun is a great way to remove any surface bubbles. You can also use a pencil torch to smooth the surface.

If you have more bubbles than you’d like, warming the candle in your oven (131-158°F) for several hours will help. Those who live in hot climates can let them sit in the sun. On the other hand, if you want bubbles, pour at lower temperatures. You can even beat it for the icing effects. For those wanting to make beer candles, paraffin wax is often used to coat the gel. Whip up the paraffin wax and pour it over your gel. The head becomes more stable.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR CHECKING FRAGRANCE OILS FOR POLARITY

The test is easy, quick and accurate if you follow the instructions carefully. This test and its guidelines were established by Penreco, the ONLY company that has a patent on gel. Penreco have established the criteria for gel compatible fragrance oils and this is their recommended standard test method.

First you want to be sure that the oil you are testing has a flash point of 170° or higher. If the FP is lower, it is NOT gel safe.

The test is conducted in two stages: first with 25% fragrance loading and a second test with 75% fragrance loading. The tests must be performed in a small glass container. Test tubes are ideal, but not many of us have them lying around the house :o). I use a small juice glass. For simple ratio measurements, I use either teaspoons or tablespoons.

The tests require only two things: fragrance oil and MINERAL OIL. DO NOT use baby oil or the heavy, laxative mineral oil. Use a food grade mineral oil.

For the first test, use 1 teaspoon (or tablespoon if your glass is wide) of fragrance oil to 3 teaspoons (or tablespoons) of mineral oil. Stir for about 1 minute. If the mixture is cloudy, your FO is not gel compatible. The cloudiness can be very minimal or severe to the point where it looks like milk. If no cloudiness appears, leave the mixture on for at least 1/2 hour. Pay attention to the separation of FO and mineral oil. If no separation occurs, proceed to the second test. *NOTE: It’s okay if the FO turns cloudy in the first few seconds of stirring when it clears and stays clear.

Here you use 3 tsp. from FO to 1 teaspoon. Mineral oil. Stir again, check for cloudiness; leave, seek separation. If you don’t have either, then you have a gel compatible FO.

See? That’s not hard. But VERY important.

Many people tout their FOs as “gel safe” or “100% soluble in gel” when the FP is above 170° or the gel itself doesn’t really cloud up. Just because an FO does not cloud gel does NOT make it gel compatible or gel safe. Per Penreco guidelines, the FO must pass both polarity tests to be considered gel safe and soluble.

How do I pack and label my candles?

Packaging and labeling are very important as they give your customer the first impression and FIRST IMPRESSION. The presentation should be eye-catching, tasteful, professional and attractive. Cellophane bags, tulle, and shrink wrap all work very well. Stay away from cheap-looking items like pipe cleaners. Raffia or decorative ties are always a good way to “tie up” your bag!

Your label should also look professional. This tells the customer exactly what they are buying. Labels should always include the following information:

Your company name, address, phone number, email address and website address.

The candle weight – preferably in ounces.

Approximate burn time.

fragrance name.

Price.

Burning and Precautions.

Caution Tips/Instructions

Always attach a self-adhesive warning/instruction label to your candle – either on the bottom or on the underside of the lid. You can also print out a candle burning leaflet. Here is some useful information:

CANDLE, COMBUSTION AND COMMON SENSE…A GUIDE TO SAFE USE OF GEL CANDLES

The warm glow of scented candlelight is one of life’s special joys. However, it can also be dangerous if safe practices are not followed. Please pay attention to the correct and safe use of candles.

DO NOT LEAVE A LIT CANDLE UNATTENDED

Could a pet or child poke it? This is just one possible unforeseeable risk of leaving an unattended flame.

AVOID BURNING THE GEL COMPLETELY DOWN.

The container can get very hot, which can damage your furniture or the container. Burn candles only on fireproof surfaces. Extinguish the candle while some gel remains and replace with a refill.

THE WICK SHOULD BE TRIMMED TO NO MORE THAN 1/4″ (6MM).

A longer wick tends to produce darker smoke, especially with more heavily scented candles. Also, a longer wick is more likely to burn off-center, creating a hot spot on the side of the container that could lead to rupture. When the candle has cooled, trim the wick with scissors or nail clippers.

CHECK YOUR CANDLE CONTAINER BEFORE EACH USE.

If you find a chip or crack, discard it. If a matchstick is accidentally dropped into a candle, extinguish the candle and remove the matchstick. Otherwise the flame could burn away from the center and create a hazard.

AVOID BURNING YOUR CANDLE IN A DRAWFUL AREA.

Areas near heating and air conditioning vents and open windows and doors are prone to drafts. The movement of people on sidewalks also moves the air. A draft can cause the flame to burn sideways, resulting in wasted gel, tunneling, and a hot spot on the side of the container.

LOOK FOR FUEL ABOVE THE CANDLE.

Is there dry greenery ready to catch fire…curtains and drapes to billow over the flame…a paper lampshade over the candle? These and similar situations are all potentially dangerous. Also, do not place the candle where clothing such as underwear could come into contact with the flame.

SOOT BUILDING

If you notice soot buildup on the wick or your candles are giving off black smoke, you may need to trim your wicks. Soot build-up will occur if you don’t keep your wicks trimmed to 1/4 inch before lighting/burning.

ENJOY YOUR CANDLE WHILE THEY ARE BURNING WITH SAFETY!!!!!!!!!!!!

What you need

Candle gel is made from mineral oil and polymer resin. This resin mixed with the mineral oil turns it into a firmer yet more transparent finish. In this project you will learn the basics of making gel candles.

gel wax

gel candle scent

gel candle color

wick and wick base

spoon

craft sticks

knife

candle thermometer

double boiler

instructions

What is candle gel made of?

There are different types of candle gel CLP (low density), CMP (medium density) and CHP (high density).

The thicker or denser the gel, the more fragrance it can hold. Use this type of gel if you intend to embed items like toys in your candles.

The only downside to using a heavier wax is that it takes longer to melt and is a thicker substance to work with.

Safety of gel candles:

The melting point of a gel candle is around 275°F and the flash point (temperature at which it catches fire) is close to 440°F.

Some considerations about this are if you add an unsuitable fragrance oil it will lower the flash point, making it possible for the candle to burst into flames when it burns.

Scented oils that are safe for making gel candles are said to be non-polar and are readily available from reputable candle retailers.

Definitely don’t add your paraffin scents or essential oil.

Have some sand or a chemical extinguisher handy, and be sure to wear a heat-resistant apron and gloves.

If you are unsure if your glass is safe, we recommend wearing safety goggles in case the glass breaks.

Gear:

Crucible: As with any candle making, we recommend using a water bath for safety reasons. However, if you are sure of what you are doing and have some safety precautions in hand, such as a chemical fire extinguisher or bucket of sand (never water) then the quickest way to melt this wax is to use a direct heat method such as a heavy lined electric skillet like a dutch oven.

Thermometer:

The melting point of a gel candle is around 275 F and the flash point (temperature at which it catches fire) is close to 440 F

So you need a thermometer to make sure it doesn’t get close to the flash point. The wax melts slowly, so don’t be tempted to turn up the heat to get things going faster. Slow and low is the way to go.

Stirring equipment:

Metal spoons and spatulas work best and are easy to clean.

Dye:

Liquid candle dyes are best for gel candles as they preserve the candle’s clarity. You can use color chips in small amounts, but this can slightly cloud your candle. We do not recommend using dyes that are not sold for making gel candles as they are simply not safe.

scent:

Scented oils that are safe for making gel candles are said to be non-polar and are readily available from reputable candle retailers. Under no circumstances add your paraffin scents or essential oils as these can ignite your candle. For the fragrance ratio, use this as a guide.

3% for CLP, 4% usage for CMP and up to 6% for CHP usage.

Wick:

Wicks are important and can affect how the candle burns. Braided wicks with a cotton and paper core, typically used in making wax candles, are not typically used in gel candles. Zinc core wicks work best as they burn safely and stay upright while the candle is being set. Your wick should not sit more than 7mm above the candle, otherwise the flame will be too big.

There’s a misconception that wicks should reach the bottom of the candle, but that’s not entirely true. Since the risk of breaking the glass container increases the closer the flame gets to the bottom, the closer to the glass and the heat travels further up the glass. Wicks should sit about 1/4 of the way from the bottom. You can cover the base or raise it slightly by adding some glass beads or other add-ins.

As with all wicks in candle making, we recommend coating them with the melted gel and allowing them to dry before use.

Embeds:

It’s great to put things in gel candles like plastic toys, shells, pebbles, etc. to add. Keep in mind that the flame is next to the embedded item, so adding flammable fabric flowers isn’t the best idea unless you can make sure the candle isn’t used beyond that point. To ensure this, you can add these embeds under your wick.

Bubbles: If bubbles are desired, stir your wax with a wooden spoon before pouring to aerate it. If you don’t want bubbles, heat your container before pouring the wax, place in the sun, or place the candle in a very low oven to melt the wax and allow the air to rise.

Container:

Gel candles are typically made in glass containers, ranging from champagne flutes to small votive candles. The only requirement for your container is that it is thick enough to withstand the temperature of the wax. If you are unsure if your glass is safe, we recommend wearing safety goggles in case the glass breaks.

Now that you know all the basics, it’s time to get started. Grab a container, grab an idea and start candle making.

Credit: zestcandles

step 3

Keep stirring until the mixture is clear. At the 30 minute mark the liquid begins to become a gel mixture. After an hour on the stove, the mixture will thicken. The hot, viscous mixture should have a temperature of 200 or 220 degrees at this point. At the 90 minute point, the mixture has the appearance of a gel wax. After the two hour point, the gel and wax mixture is ready to cool.

Information about gel wax

While many candle makers turn their attention to soy wax, palm wax, or paraffin wax candles, others choose to make transparent gel wax candles. Gel wax is used to make real looking beverage candles like beer and soda pop.

Some candle makers create “works of art” by embedding items such as sand, glitter, glass embeds, wax embeds, and seashells. Additionally, other candle makers use gel wax to create real looking fruitcake candles. Using gel wax in these applications allows the entire candle to glow as it burns; giving your finished product a “WOW” factor.

What is Gel Wax?

Gel Wax is a transparent, gummy compound of mineral oil and polymer resin.; Burn almost twice as long as paraffin wax candles. The approximate percentage of these two elements is 95% mineral oil and 5% polymer resin. The mineral oil is too loose in its original form and this is where the polymer resin comes into play. This resin is used to thicken the mineral oil to give it the clear, slow-burning wax we know it as. The patent on gel wax and the gel wax process is actually owned by Penreco. They refer to this wax as VersaGel. Natures Garden wears medium density Penreco Versagel.

Melting Gel Wax is a little different than any other paraffin or soy wax on the market. Unlike the waxes above, there isn’t an easy temperature you’re looking for to liquify the wax, instead it slowly thins out. You must be very careful when observing the wax while it is on the heat source and stir frequently. This is key to ensuring the correct melting process. Also, don’t be tempted to turn your heat source to a higher level. Gel wax doesn’t melt faster, it just smokes more.

Gel wax is to be used as a container wax only. The gel itself is not stable enough to stand on its own like pillar wax is. If you are planning to embed your gel wax candles, choose non-flammable items such as sea glass, sand, glitter, shells, marbles, glass figurines, wax embeds. Never use plastic encapsulations in your gel wax candles. Decorating your gel wax candles with these embeds can create beautiful works of art, but remember to leave enough space for the gel wax! Don’t get too crazy about adding embeds or your candle won’t burn.

Because gel wax is mostly oil, you need to make sure the fragrance oils you use are soluble in it. Many companies say that non-polar fragrances must be used in gel wax. However, it is chemically impossible to make fragrance oils non-polar. All fragrance oils contain a mixture of ketones, aldehydes, esters, resins and essential oils. These fragrance oil components all have some degree of polarity; meaning they are capable of oxidation. Fragrance oils can be made gel wax compatible by adding Isopar solvents to reduce polarity; but they will still have some degree of polarity. A reduction in polarity helps make the fragrances miscible with mineral oil. A mineral oil miscibility test is still required for any fragrance you use in gel wax.

To test solubility: Mix 1 part fragrance with 3 parts food grade mineral oil. Shake and leave for a few minutes. Check that the fragrance mixes thoroughly with the mineral oil. Now take 3 parts fragrance to 1 part mineral oil. Shake and let the mixture set for a few minutes. Check that the fragrance mixes thoroughly with the mineral oil. If you see any type of insolubility or cloudiness, the fragrance is not well suited for use in gel wax candles.

Also, the fragrance oil must have a flash point of at least 170 degrees Fahrenheit. This is because the gel wax candle burns at a much higher temperature than traditional waxes. If the difference between the flash point of Gel Wax and that of your fragrance oil is large enough, you will have an unstable overall flash point of the blended product, which is unsafe.

If you want to add depth or color to your gel wax candles, liquid candle dyes are the best and only way. Although powder dyes or color blocks can be used, they often clump together making it very difficult to achieve an even color throughout the candle. Never use food coloring or water-soluble soap dyes. Choosing the right container for your gel wax candles is just like choosing the container for traditional waxes.

There are three main laws to keep in mind.

First, the container must be resistant to cracking. Obviously you don’t want a container that will crack and result in an unstable candle.

Second, the container must be able to absorb the heat from the flame and the melted wax.

After all, the container cannot leak. As with any candle there will be a wet puddle of wax, you don’t want that hot liquid spurting out.

When choosing the right wick for gel wax candles, the rule of thumb is: wick one size larger. To find the wick you are looking for, you need to measure the diameter of the opening on your candle container. Once you have this information, you need to select the appropriate zinc wick. Don’t be tempted to buy a cotton wick. These wicks tend to absorb too much gel causing them to snuff out. From this point all you have to do is find the right wick according to your diameter and then select the next larger wick.

With all the options available for Gel Wax, many candle crafters enjoy using this product. As long as you follow the safety guidelines, imagination is the key to brilliant gel wax creations.

Another amazing factor that Gel Wax has is that it is very forgiving. Any physical traits or odor issues that you are not happy with can be fixed very easily. It’s literally as easy as remelting, recasting, recoloring, or recoloring.

Always, always, always make sure the first burn of your new candle is a commemorative burn. This is also something to share with your customers. A memorial firing is important to create a clean, wax-free candle container when you’re done.

To determine the correct memory burn time for your candle, you need to know the diameter of the container. This is the same information you need to know for wick size. Once you have this data, you need to add an hour for every inch your diameter is wide. If your diameter is 2 ½ inches, your memory burn time is essentially 2 ½ hours. During this time, your candle will reach a full pool of water. The full wet bowl is just what you need to get the best possible burn and odor throw. If you don’t burn your candle using the memory burn method, you’ll get what’s called a core burn every time you light your candle again. A core fire is a wet pool that essentially only burns around the wick. This burning will never give your candle the full fragrance ability that gel wax has to offer. Also, when the wick is completely gone, you still have wax around the edges of the container and on the bottom.

There is one more consideration for gel wax candles that needs to be kept in mind. If a gel wax candle is laid on its side or turned upside down, it will eventually begin to pour. It is very important to consider this for two reasons: storage and shipping. Another important factor to consider when burning a gel wax candle is not to move it while it is lit or to cool down after it is lit. The liquid gel is very hot and will cause severe burns.

If you’re going to be burning your gel wax candle in between, it’s a good idea to seal the container. Due to the nature of gel wax, the top layer will be sticky. By covering the candle you prevent dust, insects or dirt from sticking to the top of your candle.

Before relighting your candle, always trim your wick. Keep the wick short, about ¼ inch, and protect yourself.

Never leave a lit gel wax candle unattended. Keep all candles away from children and pets.

gel wax

Gel wax is a translucent wax with the consistency of jelly used in candle making.

Due to the clarity of the wax, it’s common to find gel candles with encapsulations inside, such as B. sliced ​​dried fruit, small glass ornaments, glitter or anything that will not melt at a lower temperature than the wax.

New to making gel wax candles?

You are in the right place! Here’s our candle making guide, which includes links to all the ingredients and materials needed to get started!

If you have any questions or would like more information please use our contact page or call us on 01709 257 151 Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm.

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