soap makers, where do I start?

bargainfinder1992

I want to try making my own soap as gifts for christmas, I've bought caustic soda but what else do I need? What do you add for the colour and smell? And what steps do you take? Thanks

summerspring

Hi bargainfinder

Have a read of this lady's soap-making tutorial:

http://down---to---earth.blogspot.co.uk/2007/07/how-to-make-cold-pressed-soap.html

It shows you how to make cold-processed soap. There are other methods, too, which I am not familiar with, but if you don't mind waiting a few weeks for the soaps to harden/cure I find this method works well.

There are also videos on YouTube, I think.

babyshoes

As a beginner, you might like to try melt and pour soap - you get to be creative with the scent, shape and colour, but don't have to deal with potentially dangerous caustic soda or worry about getting accurate proportions etc.

mrs_baggins

bargainfinder1992 wrote: »

I want to try making my own soap as gifts for christmas, I've bought caustic soda but what else do I need? What do you add for the colour and smell? And what steps do you take? Thanks

i know its an old post.......

I used to make my own and as long as you take simple precautions and are careful its not an issue-but would do it when there are no children about! you cant use the soap straight away and it does need a couple of weeks or so to cure. I have a book somewhere so I could copy you a basic recipie if you pm me . With regards to fragrance the oils you use must be suitable for cosmetics. I used to buy in bulk essential oils which are available from some companies. To be honest the outlay can be quite expensive but is quite satisying when its done.