Gel candles are easy to make and offer a whole range of creative possibilities. With some shells and blue dye, you could make a gel candle that people would mistake for an aquarium. By adding glow-in-the-dark powder, you can create candles that emit a green glow at night. That's just a small sampling of all the things you can do with gel candles. But how do you make even the most simple of gel candles?

A gel candle kit from your local craft store should come with everything you need to make your very first gel candle. Instructions will be included.

You may also want to look into getting a Presto pot. It’s around $20 to $30, but it’s a worthwhile investment if you plan on making more candles. A Presto pot is easier to clean, and it has a dial for you set and monitor the temperature. That’s an important feature. You don’t want the candle gel to get hotter than 200 degrees, or else it could catch on fire.

Even if you have a Presto pot, you may still want to check the temperature of the gel with a candle thermometer to be on the safe side. Your kit should have one.

You’ll be melting the gel to a syrupy consistency and mixing in a little dye or candle scent. You’ll want to get the wick in place before pouring the gel in. This can be done by dipping one end in the gel, letting it cool for a few seconds, then sticking it to the bottom of your container. Gently pull the wick straight after you carefully pour the gel into the container.

And now you’ll have your very own gel candle. Once you’ve given it time to cool down, it will be ready to use.