Gel Candle Making, In The Know
Gel candle making can be done for fun or profit. Gel candles have gained popularity because they do not contain any of the by-products of oil that standard candles have. They are often available at farmer’s markets, flea markets, craft shows and swap meets as a handcrafted item made by someone who is creating a home-based business. In this article you will find tips on candle making products, what is needed and safety tips to keep in mind.
Gel candles are made up of 95% of mineral oil and 5% polymer which is what gives the candle is gel-like consistency in its finished state. There are three different thicknesses of polymer. Of the three, CLP is the least thickest, CMP is medium, and the thickest is CHP. If you are planning on adding fragrances or embed any objects into your gel candle for additional decorations, the thickest polymer, CHP is recommended.
Some supplies you will need to make your homemade gel candles include a double boiler, a thermometer to test when the gel is ready and a long metal or plastic spoon. Wooden spoons are not recommended, as they might form bubbles in the gel. Lastly, have available containers to pour the mixture into. To prevent heat related mishaps, use glass or metal containers opposed to plastic or paper. You can douse chemical fires with fire extinguishers, which are a good all-purpose addition to your basic kitchen equipment. You can also protect your body from heat and chemical spills by wearing safety glasses, gloves, and an apron. Most of these are just precautions, but always remember: safety first.
You will more than likely want to add color and possibly fragrance to your original craft. When choosing a dye, the best recommendation is buying it with the polymer you choose and make sure it is a liquid. Clothing, food and soap dye will not work, could spoil the looks and might make it burn improperly. The same goes with choosing a fragrance, use one that is meant for gel candles.
Because the main ingredient in gel candles is mineral oil, they burn longer than traditional candles. Because standard candles are consisted of by-products from the oil industry, they can be quite expenses, so gel is a great alternative. Additionally, handcrafted gifts are always a great way to go when choosing what to give someone. But try to use caution when learning how to make gel candles, including common sense, no embedding of flammable objects, and test and label them correctly before giving. Have fun and be careful.
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