In a saucepan combine water and agar powder or guar gum. Don't worry if guar gum forms lumps as heating will dissolve them. 

Heat over medium heat until the mixture begins to bubble. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes stirring often. The mixture will begin to form a gel. 

Pour gel into the bowl of stand mixer with the paddle attachment or use a hand mixer.

Add confectioner's sugar one cup at a time beating on low until all sugar has been added and a dough that resembles play dough has formed. 

Divide dough into four equal pieces. Wrap 3 of the dough balls in plastic wrap and set aside. Take the fourth and make a small dent in the center of dough ball and add desired coloring or flavoring. Kneed on a surface sprinkled liberally with confectioner's sugar to incorporate into the dough thoroughly. 

Roll dough out on a surface sprinkled with confectioner's sugar to a thickness of ⅛ to ¼ inch. Cut out desired shape and transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Set in an undisturbed area to dry. 

Continue this process working with one piece of dough at a time until all have been flavored, rolled, and cut. 

Allow candy hearts to dry undisturbed in open air for 1-3 days or until hardened. The length of time will depend on the thickness of the candies and the humidity in your area.

After candy has hardened write messages if desired using a vegan food coloring pen or mix ¼ teaspoon beet powder with enough water to form a paste and use a toothpick. 

Store candies in a container in the pantry.