Do you have powdered gelatin or leaf gelatin? Each envelope of powdered Knox (a popular brand) contains one tablespoon of gelatin. To dissolve the powdered gelatin, in a mixing bowl, sprinkle 1 pouch Knox® Unflavoured Gelatine over 1/4 cup (50mL) cold liquid. Let stand for 1 minute. Add 1/4 cup (50mL) boiling water, stir constantly until granules are completely dissolved. Add the mixture to your recipe or just put it in the fridge and let set. It should set up in about 2 hours. The more liquid added to the gelatin the longer it will take to set. Too much liquid will cause the gelatin not to set.
For other methods of dissolving an using powdered gelatin go to the Knox website.
http://www.knoxgelatine.com/basics.htm
Some recipes may call for sheet gelatin. For tips on using dissolving and using sheet gelatin go to this website.
http://www.modernistpantry.com/gelatin-sheets-gold.html