What is Gel Candle Wax?

Gel wax also known as jelly wax is a premixed gel that is usually clear in color and can burn twice as long as wax.  Gel is widely used for novelty type candles.  Non flammable objects can be suspended in gel wax.  Some examples of items that can be suspended are glass embeds, sand, and seashells.  Wax embeds with a high melting point of 140 F or higher can also be used.

 What is the difference between Penrenco CMP and Penrenco CHP Wax?

Penrenco CMP wax is a medium grade wax that can be used to suspend embedded objects.  It is a medium-polymer gel for clear candles with medium to high fragrance loads. (0-5%)Penrenco CHP is the thickest gel.  If you plan on shipping your candles, this is the gel to use. This gel is also an excellent choice if you are going to embed objects into your candle.  This is a high polymer gel with a fragrance load of 7%. 

Why do my gel candles become cloudy?

There are many reasons why gel could become cloudy.  It is better to use liquid dye, because dye blocks contain wax and it can make your candle cloudy. If you pour at too high of a temperature, wax from the wicks and wax embeds can melt and cause clouding problems.  Overuse of fragrance can also cloud your candle so make sure you do not use more than ½ ounce. 

What is the best way to melt gel wax?

Presto pots, stainless steel, Teflon coated, and roaster pots can be utilized.  Start out with a low setting and never leaf unattended.  Once the wax is melted you can use a glass measuring cup to pour into your containers.  A metal skewer can be used to stir your dye and fragrance oil.  A candy thermometer can be used to check your wax temperature. 

What kind of glassware is best used?

Use only glass for gel candles.  Do not use thin glass for glass that can not handle temperature of 200 deg F.  Glassware such as beer glasses, ivy bowls and coffee mugs can be used.  Most important test everything.  

 How can I obtain more or less bubbles?

The hotter you pour your gel the less bubbles you will obtain.  If you pour at a lower temperature and slower you will achieve more bubbles.  If you are using porous embeds such as shells; soak them for an hour in mineral and wipe off  lightly so they will not make bubbles when you put them in your candles.

 How can I get my wick to stand straight up once I have poured the gel?

You can use popsicle sticks and punch a hole in the middle so can center the wick through the hole that you made.  You can also wrap the wick around a skewer or a pencil lay across the top of the container

More Gel Questions?