Basic steps
1. combine gum tragacanth with very warm water, using 1 C of water for every tsp of gum trgacanth. Mix thoroghly, set aside. (this is the glue)
2. mix all dry ingredients in bowl.
3. Add the glue, which should be quite thick, in increments, adding just enough so that you have potpourri playdough. Too much water will simply mean the incense will take longer to dry, as well a humid enviroment--incense made in Seattle may take longer to dry then say, Phoenix.
4. Add any essential oils or liquid fragrances at this time, mixing thoroughly.
5. Now you get to shape the dough. You can shape them into cones, "snakes" over broom bristles (ever wonder what to do with those trimmings?), shaped incense is really rather expensive from what I've seen you can now make your own and save $$$! They even show how to make tabs.
6. place your incense on waxed paper on a flat surface and allow to dry for 3-5 days, moving them around ecso you can ensure all sides are getting dried (this will help prevent cracking too) at least once a day.
7. when dry they are ready to burn; store in airtight container (a ziplock bag will do)