Definition

• Wax tarts are tart-shaped scented candles that have no wick. They tend to be only an inch or two in thickness, and vary in diameter. Usually tarts contain more fragrance than regular scented candles. They are commonly melted in tart burners or oil burners to release fragrance, and the scent lasts about 5 to 8 hours before it starts to fade. While wax tarts can be tart-shaped, there are also round tarts available, or those in such shapes as flowers or hearts.
  
  

Types of Wax Tarts

• Wax tarts are made from a variety of waxes. One of the most common waxes for making wax tarts is paraffin. Paraffin is a by-product of crude oil that is available with different melting points. Beeswax is a natural form of wax that has a naturally-occurring sweet fragrance and burns slowly. Palm wax is made from natural palm oil, sometimes blended with soy wax to make it harder. Soy wax is a cleaner and non-toxic alternative to other waxes. The wax is derived from soybean oil, burns at a lower temperature and for a longer time. Soy wax tends to hold fragrance better than other types of wax as it has naturally occurring oils that blend well with fragrance oils.
  
  

Melting Wax Tarts

• Melting wax tarts is often done in ceramic or glass tart burners. Oil burners or potpourri burners can also be used to melt the wax. The top section of the burner holds the wax tart, while the lower portion holds a tea light candle to heat the wax tart. When the tart is heated, it releases an aroma until the essential oil is burned away. It is very important when burning wax tarts to practice fire safety and prevention. Keep the burner out of the reach of children and pets.
  
  

Making Wax Tarts at Home

• Since wax tarts do not have wicks, they are easier to make at home than regular candles. You can make tarts at home using scentless old candle pieces. Melt the candle pieces in a double boiler and add essential oils for fragrance. Start with a few drops and add oil until the strength of the scent is ideal. Mix with a metal spoon. Place foil cupcake molds on a baking sheet and use a measuring cup to pour the mixture into the molds. Be sure to make the wax tarts only an inch or two in thickness, so do not fill the molds. Set the sheet of molds into the fridge or freezer to set the wax.