Gel that didnt set

[TheWickChick]

I've been making gel candles for a year now and this is the first time I've seen this... I made some candles that wont set, they are goopy. Any ideas? The only thing I did different was to use a new vanilla scent and liquid color. The scent was labeled gel safe. I've done liquid color before with no problem. Any thoughts?

[CathyinME]

I would think it is the vanilla scent. Most vanillas I've ever seen are too heavy. In gels you don't use that much dye so that I wouldn't think would be it. How much fragrance did you put per lb? Maybe try cutting back on a second test batch?

[TheWickChick]

The vanilla added was 1 oz per 1 lb. But there is barely a smell to them. I think I'll scrap the vanilla scent on the next batch. I have a feeling that's the problem as well.

[CathyinME]

I only use 3/4oz per LB for gel, sounds like too much to me.

[Bernadette]

I've also seen this happen when the gel is heated too high. In fact, I tested to see where the "breaking point" was. When you see, like steam, coming off of it, it will never set up properly. Certain fragrances can lower the point at which this happens. If you can take the candles apart without ruining everything(for instance, if there's sand in the bottom that could get into the gel), and put fresh gel in with it, you can reuse it, as long as you watch the temp carefully. Ratio is about 1:1.