Making candles out of crayons can also be a great gift giving idea. Before you get started, discuss safety with your children. Since the crayons will have to be melted at a very high heat, they will not be able to participate in that portion of the candle making process. Assure them that there are many other aspects of the candle making that they can be a part of. They are perfect for romantic evenings at home. You can make your own taper candles without much experience in candle making. The process of making taper candles involves and dipping rather than using molds or jars. Hand dipping takes some practice to get the hang of, but you will be a pro in no time. The dyes and scents used in candle making can leave stains. The best way to set up your work area for candle making is to divide it into three specific work stations for preparation, the melting process, and the cooling process. The preparation area doesn t need to be large, just a flat surface that is well organized. Often it entails more than one votive candle, but not always. Votives are very cost effective because they burn for about fifteen hours. Votives must have a holder as they are not safe to use as a free standing candle. Many individuals choose to use votive candles in their jack-o-lanterns at Halloween because they burn for a long time and illuminate the entire face of the jack-o-lantern. For best results melt it in a double boiler at medium heat. The gel should be heated to 200 degrees Fahrenheit. A quality thermometer is a great investment as the gel won t set properly if you don t get it hot enough and it will lose the glossy color if you get the temperature too high. If you desire to add color to your gel candles, add it in slowly. Choose from solid color pillars or multi colored ones. You really have to see pictures of these pillar candles to appreciate just how beautiful they are. If you are interested in earning extra money, consider becoming a wholesaler for the Prairie Candle Company. You will be provided with special candle display shelves to allocate your space better.