by Lorean Williams

Created on: December 08, 2010   Last Updated: December 09, 2010

Making your own soap can be both fun and rewarding. The possibilities are endless when it comes to the creativity and complexity of making your own soap.

There are a few things that you will need to gather before you begin:

 A heat resistant measuring cup (size of measuring cup needed will depend on how big of a batch you plan to make at one time)

Microwave or double boiler (microwave is the easiest for me)

Sharp knife (be very careful)

Melt and pour soap base (sold in blocks or chunks)

Spoon for mixing ingredients

Your choice of essential oils or fragrance

Your choice of skin care nutrients (Vitamin E oil, Aloe Vera oil, etc)

Soap making dye or food coloring

Soap making mold

After all the equipment is gathered, your next step is to find out how much soap you need to fill your mold. To do this fill the mold with water and pour it into measuring cup. Always add about an ounce extra as soap will be stuck to the side of the measuring cup and you will end up with less soap if you don’t. (8oz of soap chunks will melt down to 4oz of liquefied soap)

Next cut the soap base into small chunks or slivers as this will allow it to melt quicker. Measure out the appropriate amount needed.

Now liquefy your base. You can use either the microwave or a double boiler. Microwave is easier and faster but that is up to you which one you use. Start microwave melting time at 30 seconds. If not completely melted put back in microwave for 10 second intervals until completely melted being careful not to let it boil. Take out of the microwave being very careful as it can be exceptionally hot.

Carefully stir the soap until all chunks are gone and you have a smooth consistency.

Now for the best part of the process. Add your colorants, essential oils, and skin care nutrients. Have fun and be creative. Use your imagination. This is your chance to make your own custom beauty bar.

Finally, place the soap into the mold. Do it quickly as you don’t want the soap to resolidify.

Allow soap to complete harden before trying to remove it from the mold. You can speed up this process by placing it in the refrigerator or the freezer.

When completely harden pop out of the mold and enjoy your wonderful creation.

For clean-up, HAND WASH everything in hot soapy water. Never put these items in the dishwasher as the excess soap that sticks to the equipment can cause to many soap suds and make your dishwasher leak. What a mess that would be.

CONGRATULATIONS! You have created your first handmade bar of soap.

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