An ester-terminated dimer acid-based polyamide may be blended with a solvent to form a gel. The solvent may be flammable, and a wick may be added to the resulting gel so as to form a candle. Depending on the composition, the candle may be formed into a free standing pillar, or may be better suited to being placed in a container. The solvent may be mineral oil. A solid coating may be placed around the candle, for advantages including to enhance the clarity and/or mechanical stability of the gelled body, and to eliminate the tendency of a gel to have an oily feel and to accept noticeable fingerprints. The ester-terminated dimer acid-based polyamide may also be combined with an active ingredient, such as a fragrance, colorant, insect-repellant, insecticide, bioactive ingredient or the like, to afford a delivery vehicle for the active ingredient.