When you pick up the hobby of soap making there are several things that you have to think about. One of those things is which way you should make the soap. There are a few different main ways to make soap. From scratch, melt and pour, and re-batching.
Generally when you are making soap from scratch it includes working with lye and different kind of fats or oils. Lye is a very dangerous chemical to work with and when working with lye you need to use a lot of caution. However, if you follow the directions on how to use and handle lye you should be okay. The next step of making soap from scratch is deciding which different fats or oils you will want to use. Most soap’s main ingredient is lard and can be purchased at different food markets. You can also use oil instead of lard, but that usually makes the soap greasier. The process of mixing the lye and water mix in with the different fats or oils will take a while. You would need to stir the mix slowly till there is a trace. After that, then you will be able to add your scents or colors. Once all of the ingredients are mixed you can pour your soap into a mold, but you will need to let the soap cure for a week or more.
Melt and pour may be the simplest process of soap crafting on the market. The main process of using melt and pour is to weigh out the amount of soap you want to use, cut it up in inch by inch cubes, and melt it in the microwave in a glass measuring glass. Melt and pour is used a lot for people that want to make different shapes, add personal touches, and do not have enough time to make the soap from scratch. This method is also not as hazardous as others. There are many different soap bases when it comes to melt and pour so you are not limited to using just one. If you have dry skin you can use olive oil based-soap, and if you are concerned with stretch marks you can use shea butter based-soap.
When you are re-batching soap you are working with soap that has already been made. However, you will start out by grating the soap into small shreds. Once you get the soap grated you place it in a boil proof bag, melt the re-batched soap, put in your additives, pour into your mold, let it harden for a few days, and wah-la you have soap. This is a very easy process to work with, but some people do not like using this process since you have to take time to grate the soap. Though you can personalize this soap by adding different fragrances, herbs or colors. It also takes anywhere from thirty to forty-five minutes for the grated soap to fully melt in the boiling water.
Deciding if you want to work with lye, use melt and pour, or even re-batching may take some time. But once you decide which method will be best for you, you can really get creative with your soap. You don’t want this to be a chore you want it to be fun, which is why you need to figure out which way would be best for you.
