Once you have created your soap, you were probably wondering how you were going to package your soaps for gift giving. After wrapping your soaps in plastic wrap, what could I use to make my gift more extraordinary?
According to Norma Covey, author of The Complete Soapmaker, you can use any of the following:
* Baskets of all shapes and sizes
* Wooden or metal trays
* Small bowls
* Gift Boxes
* Decorative Plates
* Clay, porcelain or ceramic flower pot saucers
* Loaf Pans
* Mixing Bowls
* Cake Pans
* Small Cake Plate Stands
* Muffin Tins
* Large Shells
* Attractive Glassware
* Brandy Snifters
* Candy Jars
* Milk Glass Containers
* Soap Dishes
These are just a few. You are just limited by your imagination.
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Locating Bath/Body Product Recipes
While visiting this blog you do not see a particular recipe for a bath/body product that you would like to make, please check out the side bar categories of Related Blogs/Websites and Bath Products Website and do a search on the subject you are looking for. Since these sites have multiple recipes on differents products, it is easier to include a link than posting each and every recipe.
Please check often for more links and recipes!
Please check often for more links and recipes!
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
How to Make Lotions and Creams Manual
by Joan Morais
Publication 33-Pages
(Instant Download or Printed Version)
It took me a long time to understand how to formulate and make lotions and creams. I looked for information in books and on the internet to teach me about the process and explain it in detail. I was not able to find the information I wanted and instead became overwhelmed trying to sort through everything. This manual is the result of years of my research, personal experience and teaching classes on how to make natural body care products.
Included in this How To Manual
* 10 easy recipes: light body & face lotions, rich body lotion, after sun lotion, rich body cream, rose face cream, dry skin cream, hand cream and body souffle
* 33 pages filled with detailed information
* Oils, Butters, Herbs & Essential Oils to use in Lotions and Creams
* How to make an Herbal Infusion with Herbs and Oils
* Using Emulsifying Wax NF
* The latest information on How to Preserve your Lotions and Creams
* Clear steps to make Lotions and Creams with or without a scale
* How to formulate your own recipes with an easy chart & ratios for Lotions and Creams
* Information on Selling your Lotions and Creams
* An excellent resource list: where to buy your ingredients, containers, labels, formulators, contract packaging and challenge testing
Now available for $12.95
For more info and to purchase book go to: http://www.joanmorais.com/joansbooks/lotionsandcreams.html
About Joan Morais
Joan teaches classes on making natural body care products. Her passion is to teach others how to make natural, creative and fantastic products for the skin.
Contact Information:
Joan Morais
website: www.joanmorais.com
email: info@joanmorais.com
(707) 426-9480
Publication 33-Pages
(Instant Download or Printed Version)
It took me a long time to understand how to formulate and make lotions and creams. I looked for information in books and on the internet to teach me about the process and explain it in detail. I was not able to find the information I wanted and instead became overwhelmed trying to sort through everything. This manual is the result of years of my research, personal experience and teaching classes on how to make natural body care products.
Included in this How To Manual
* 10 easy recipes: light body & face lotions, rich body lotion, after sun lotion, rich body cream, rose face cream, dry skin cream, hand cream and body souffle
* 33 pages filled with detailed information
* Oils, Butters, Herbs & Essential Oils to use in Lotions and Creams
* How to make an Herbal Infusion with Herbs and Oils
* Using Emulsifying Wax NF
* The latest information on How to Preserve your Lotions and Creams
* Clear steps to make Lotions and Creams with or without a scale
* How to formulate your own recipes with an easy chart & ratios for Lotions and Creams
* Information on Selling your Lotions and Creams
* An excellent resource list: where to buy your ingredients, containers, labels, formulators, contract packaging and challenge testing
Now available for $12.95
For more info and to purchase book go to: http://www.joanmorais.com/joansbooks/lotionsandcreams.html
About Joan Morais
Joan teaches classes on making natural body care products. Her passion is to teach others how to make natural, creative and fantastic products for the skin.
Contact Information:
Joan Morais
website: www.joanmorais.com
email: info@joanmorais.com
(707) 426-9480
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Safe Additives for Soaps
Dried Botanicals (Not Fresh) - Crush apricot seed, Eucalyptus leaves, Green Tea, Lavender buds, Lemon Peel, Lemon Verbena Leaves, Lemongrass, Loofa,Orange peel,Peppermint Leaves, Poppy Seeds, Rose Petals, Rosehip powder, Rosemary Leaves,Sage Leaves,Sandlewood
Nuts- Almond, Coconut, Hazel Nut
Oils - Sweet Almond Oil, Coconut Oils, Cocoa buttter, Olive Oil, Palm Oil, Shea Nut butter
Spices - Allspice, Anise, Caramom, Paprika (use sparingly), Tumeric,
Vanilla pod (seeds)
Misc.- Cornmeal, Glycerin (liquid), Honey, Oatmeal, Milk Powder (goat, whole milk, buttermilk), Tapioca, Wheat Bran
Preservatives - Citric Acid, Grapefruit Seed Extract, Vitamin E Oil
Source: Designer Soapmaking by Marie Browning, Sterling Publishing, 2003. pg 19.
Nuts- Almond, Coconut, Hazel Nut
Oils - Sweet Almond Oil, Coconut Oils, Cocoa buttter, Olive Oil, Palm Oil, Shea Nut butter
Spices - Allspice, Anise, Caramom, Paprika (use sparingly), Tumeric,
Vanilla pod (seeds)
Misc.- Cornmeal, Glycerin (liquid), Honey, Oatmeal, Milk Powder (goat, whole milk, buttermilk), Tapioca, Wheat Bran
Preservatives - Citric Acid, Grapefruit Seed Extract, Vitamin E Oil
Source: Designer Soapmaking by Marie Browning, Sterling Publishing, 2003. pg 19.
Friday, August 17, 2007
Common Aromatherapy Uses
Aromatherapy as used today originated in Europe and has been practiced there since the early 1900s. Practitioners of aromatherapy believe that every oil has a vibration or note, which can be used for different therapeutic applications.
Aromatherapy can be used to relax and soothe the mind and body, to energize or even to arouse. Aromatherapy derived from the use of essential oils to solicit specific emotions. Essential oils have been used for thousands of years for their health supporting properties. The powerful aromas of essential oils affect your moods and feelings through your sense of smell.
By selecting a particular scent, you can encourage a state of relaxation, romance, healing or comfort. Essential oils can be used in Aromatherapy, to scent potpourri, lotions, cosmetics, perfumes, food flavorings and medicinally.
Additionally oils can be used in creating sachets, potpourri, reviving potpourri, and for light bulb scenting. Essential oils can also be used via the bath, diffusion, massage, or compress. Each individual person, fabric, or material may react differently to a particular suggested use.
Essential oils can be mixed in a cream essential oil combinations are applied directly to the skin for beauty care or treatmentof sores or irritations. By using different essential oils, you can control the nature of those benefits.
A unique property of plants is that many contain natural fragrance or perfume-like scents known as essential oils. Essential oils come from plants while fragrance oils are artificially created and often contain synthetic chemicals.
Essential oils are taken from a plant's flowers, leaves, stalks, bark, rind, or roots. The yield of essential oil differs with individual plant species-ranging in most cases from about 0.2 to 2.0%. That's why literally tons of plant material are required for just a few hundred pounds
of oil.
In some cases different organs of a single plant may contain essential oils of different chemical composition. In the end, even the smallest bottle of essential oil can create a lot of powerful solution. It is important to note that the benefits of aromatherapy do depend on the unique nature of each person's response to an aromatic stimulus.
About the Author
Francesca Black works in marketing at Organic Items http://www.organic-items.com/ and Aromatherapy Blends http://www.aromatherapy-blends.net/ leading portals for organic products and essential oils.
Source: ArticleTrader.com
Aromatherapy can be used to relax and soothe the mind and body, to energize or even to arouse. Aromatherapy derived from the use of essential oils to solicit specific emotions. Essential oils have been used for thousands of years for their health supporting properties. The powerful aromas of essential oils affect your moods and feelings through your sense of smell.
By selecting a particular scent, you can encourage a state of relaxation, romance, healing or comfort. Essential oils can be used in Aromatherapy, to scent potpourri, lotions, cosmetics, perfumes, food flavorings and medicinally.
Additionally oils can be used in creating sachets, potpourri, reviving potpourri, and for light bulb scenting. Essential oils can also be used via the bath, diffusion, massage, or compress. Each individual person, fabric, or material may react differently to a particular suggested use.
Essential oils can be mixed in a cream essential oil combinations are applied directly to the skin for beauty care or treatmentof sores or irritations. By using different essential oils, you can control the nature of those benefits.
A unique property of plants is that many contain natural fragrance or perfume-like scents known as essential oils. Essential oils come from plants while fragrance oils are artificially created and often contain synthetic chemicals.
Essential oils are taken from a plant's flowers, leaves, stalks, bark, rind, or roots. The yield of essential oil differs with individual plant species-ranging in most cases from about 0.2 to 2.0%. That's why literally tons of plant material are required for just a few hundred pounds
of oil.
In some cases different organs of a single plant may contain essential oils of different chemical composition. In the end, even the smallest bottle of essential oil can create a lot of powerful solution. It is important to note that the benefits of aromatherapy do depend on the unique nature of each person's response to an aromatic stimulus.
About the Author
Francesca Black works in marketing at Organic Items http://www.organic-items.com/ and Aromatherapy Blends http://www.aromatherapy-blends.net/ leading portals for organic products and essential oils.
Source: ArticleTrader.com
Monday, August 13, 2007
New Wilton Silicone Muffin Pans
If you are looking for the new Wilton Silicone Muffin Pans, I have found some already on the shelves! I found the leaf/pumpkin combination at Joann's at Mervyn's Plaza in Redwood City. The ghost muffin pan is at the Joann's Superstore in Fremont. And this location is also carrying the jack-o-lantern muffin pan. I did not see this location carrying the leaf/pumpkin combo.
If you normally shop at Michael's, then these items should be out on there shelves in the next 3 weeks or so. It always seems Joann's has the new Wilton product out before Michael's does.
I hope Michael's will have the mini pumpkins silicone pans, so that I can create pumpkin embeds for my soaps.
If you are looking for these new Wilton Pans, check out your local Joann's or Joann's Superstore. Or wait until they arrive on the shelves at your local Michaels.
Happy Shopping!
If you normally shop at Michael's, then these items should be out on there shelves in the next 3 weeks or so. It always seems Joann's has the new Wilton product out before Michael's does.
I hope Michael's will have the mini pumpkins silicone pans, so that I can create pumpkin embeds for my soaps.
If you are looking for these new Wilton Pans, check out your local Joann's or Joann's Superstore. Or wait until they arrive on the shelves at your local Michaels.
Happy Shopping!
Clearing Your Nose
If you have been smelling/shopping for essential oils and you want to clear your nose, Kathi Keville, author of Aromatherapy for Dummies, recommends that you:
(1) Walk outside and deeply breath fresh air.
(2) Sniffing coffee beans or hovering over a cup of coffee.
(3) Take several breaths through a wool scarf or cap. There is something about the smell of wool that changes your smell perceptions.
(4) Placing a few grains of salt on the tip of your tongue.
The most common of these tips is sniffing the coffee beans. I normally bring ground coffee in a tupperware for my students to use. I think coffee beans would probably last longer.
(1) Walk outside and deeply breath fresh air.
(2) Sniffing coffee beans or hovering over a cup of coffee.
(3) Take several breaths through a wool scarf or cap. There is something about the smell of wool that changes your smell perceptions.
(4) Placing a few grains of salt on the tip of your tongue.
The most common of these tips is sniffing the coffee beans. I normally bring ground coffee in a tupperware for my students to use. I think coffee beans would probably last longer.
Smelling Essential Oils
When you are shopping for essential oils and you want to safely sniff the scent, Kathi Keville, author of Aromatherapy for Dummies, recommends that you
(1) Smell the scent of the oil from the lid rather than the bottle.
(2) When sniffing an undiluted essential oil (EO), hold the lid about 6 to 10 inches away from your nose.
(3) Move the bottle or lid back and forth through the air to dilute the aromatic molecule.
(4) After smelling several eo's, clear your nose palate so that your can keep on sniffing other essential oils.
(1) Smell the scent of the oil from the lid rather than the bottle.
(2) When sniffing an undiluted essential oil (EO), hold the lid about 6 to 10 inches away from your nose.
(3) Move the bottle or lid back and forth through the air to dilute the aromatic molecule.
(4) After smelling several eo's, clear your nose palate so that your can keep on sniffing other essential oils.
Saturday, August 11, 2007
How to Make A Shampoo Bar
Are you are concerned with all of the chemicals that are present in your shampoo, you may want to consider making your own shampoo bar. Here I found a recipe that appeared on Suite 101 to make some. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out.
To make a 4 pound batch
12oz Coconut Oil
19oz of mid grade Olive Oil (not virgin,not pomace)
12oz Caster Oil
6oz Lye
16oz distilled water
1/2oz rosemary oil (not to be used if expectant lady using product replace with essential oil of choice)
Directions:
Observing usual soap making precautions.
Especially melting oils, mixing water&Lye (this is a fairly large batch).
Combine Oils and Lye @ 100 F. Stirring constantly (avoid splashing) till trace, add essential oil(rosemary, etc) stir in then pour into mold, lined with saran wrap or Vaseline. Insulate for 24 hours. Uncover & leave in mold until soap is hard enough to take out.(usually 4-6 days)When hard enough cut into bars, then cure for 4-5 weeks. This soap remains soft for quite a considerable time longer than normal cold pressed soap, IT DOES EVENTUALLY HARDEN to nice bars. Personally a nice shampoo bar......
My little question to soap makers is "Does anyone know the SAP value of Grapeseed Oil, no not grapefruit seed oil, just grapeseed oil?"
Source: http:///
To make a 4 pound batch
12oz Coconut Oil
19oz of mid grade Olive Oil (not virgin,not pomace)
12oz Caster Oil
6oz Lye
16oz distilled water
1/2oz rosemary oil (not to be used if expectant lady using product replace with essential oil of choice)
Directions:
Observing usual soap making precautions.
Especially melting oils, mixing water&Lye (this is a fairly large batch).
Combine Oils and Lye @ 100 F. Stirring constantly (avoid splashing) till trace, add essential oil(rosemary, etc) stir in then pour into mold, lined with saran wrap or Vaseline. Insulate for 24 hours. Uncover & leave in mold until soap is hard enough to take out.(usually 4-6 days)When hard enough cut into bars, then cure for 4-5 weeks. This soap remains soft for quite a considerable time longer than normal cold pressed soap, IT DOES EVENTUALLY HARDEN to nice bars. Personally a nice shampoo bar......
My little question to soap makers is "Does anyone know the SAP value of Grapeseed Oil, no not grapefruit seed oil, just grapeseed oil?"
Source: http:///
Rosemary Shampoo Recipe
Ingredients:
1 bunch fresh rosemary
( fresh lavender too, if you wish )
1/2 pint distilled water ~ this is must
4 1/2 fl. oz. unscented baby shampoo
4 drops rosemary essential oil
Directions:
Boil the fresh rosemary in the distilled water for 1/2 hour, reducing the amount of liquid by half.
A slow boil mind you :>)
Allow to cool.
Strain the rosemary and water into a large screw-top jar and add the unscented shampoo and essential oil.
Shake well to mix.
Decant into decorative bottles.
Friends would love a gift of this in a beautiful bottle. My friend Sherri just expects it around this time every year.Hope you and your friends will too!
Source: http://www.grouprecipes.com/12226/rosemary-shampoo.html
1 bunch fresh rosemary
( fresh lavender too, if you wish )
1/2 pint distilled water ~ this is must
4 1/2 fl. oz. unscented baby shampoo
4 drops rosemary essential oil
Directions:
Boil the fresh rosemary in the distilled water for 1/2 hour, reducing the amount of liquid by half.
A slow boil mind you :>)
Allow to cool.
Strain the rosemary and water into a large screw-top jar and add the unscented shampoo and essential oil.
Shake well to mix.
Decant into decorative bottles.
Friends would love a gift of this in a beautiful bottle. My friend Sherri just expects it around this time every year.Hope you and your friends will too!
Source: http://www.grouprecipes.com/12226/rosemary-shampoo.html
Friday, August 10, 2007
Making Your Own Non-Toxic Shampoo
Too many chemicals in your shampoo can not only be dangerous for your body and your health, but for the environment by allowing fewer chemicals to seep into the ground, our water sources, and the ocean. Chemicals are not the necessary ingredients for clean hair, but are added to commercial shampoos as foaming agents, scents, stabilizers, and colors. Try RJ’s Shampoo Bar recipe for a natural clean feeling head of hair, you may even find that you eliminate the need for a commercial conditioner with this recipe!
What you need:
8 oz coconut oil
11 oz olive oil
3.7 oz lye
1 tbsp wheat germ
6 oz avocado oil
2 oz castor oil
8 oz water
Directions:
Put the oils in the crock pot, except for the wheat germ, melt them on high, and then add the lye and water. Stir until well blended, and cook lightly. Add wheat germ oil, cook, cool and add your fragrance.
Source: http://ecohomeblog.com/?p=17
What you need:
8 oz coconut oil
11 oz olive oil
3.7 oz lye
1 tbsp wheat germ
6 oz avocado oil
2 oz castor oil
8 oz water
Directions:
Put the oils in the crock pot, except for the wheat germ, melt them on high, and then add the lye and water. Stir until well blended, and cook lightly. Add wheat germ oil, cook, cool and add your fragrance.
Source: http://ecohomeblog.com/?p=17
Embedded Word Soap
If you are looking to put a message on your soaps, here is a project for you! On a segment of Craft Lab on the DIY Network, a demonstration of embedded word soap was featured.
http://www.diynetwork.com/diy/cr_natural_homemade/article/0,2025,DIY_13767_5181036,00.html
If you are looking for other recipes, check out some of the links in the side bar or check in my archive. There are alot of recipes in both places. I am always looking for new recipes to post on my blog, so please return in the future.
http://www.diynetwork.com/diy/cr_natural_homemade/article/0,2025,DIY_13767_5181036,00.html
If you are looking for other recipes, check out some of the links in the side bar or check in my archive. There are alot of recipes in both places. I am always looking for new recipes to post on my blog, so please return in the future.
Wildflower Body Powder
Submitted by: Unknown
Ingredients:
2oz cornstarch
3oz arrowroot powder
1 Tbsp kaolin clay
1/4oz chamomile
1/4oz lavender powder
Directions
Mix together thoroughly, if desired add 30-40 drops essential oil. Spoon into powder shaker jars.
**Blogger recommends sifting ingredients to remove lumps.**
If you are looking for other recipes, check out some of the links in the side bar or check in my archive. There are alot of recipes in both places. I am always looking for new recipes to post on my blog, so please return in the future.
Source: http://recipes.herbalsoapsbyrj.com/recipes/category.php?CID=50
Ingredients:
2oz cornstarch
3oz arrowroot powder
1 Tbsp kaolin clay
1/4oz chamomile
1/4oz lavender powder
Directions
Mix together thoroughly, if desired add 30-40 drops essential oil. Spoon into powder shaker jars.
**Blogger recommends sifting ingredients to remove lumps.**
If you are looking for other recipes, check out some of the links in the side bar or check in my archive. There are alot of recipes in both places. I am always looking for new recipes to post on my blog, so please return in the future.
Source: http://recipes.herbalsoapsbyrj.com/recipes/category.php?CID=50
Thursday, August 9, 2007
Calculating/Capacity of Soap Molds
If you recently purchased a soap mold and you do not know how much soap base you need to use here are some calculations and formulas to help you out.
Capacity of Shape Molds
Mini Rectangle (1 1/2" x 1" x 1" deep) = 2 oz
Small Rectangle (2 3/4" x 2" x 1" deep) = 3 oz
Medium Rectangle (3 1/4" x 2 1/4 " x 1" deep) = 4 oz
Medium Square (3" x 3" x 1" deep) = 5 oz
Large Square (3" x 6" x 1" deep) = 9 oz
Medium Circle (2 1/2" diameter x 1" deep) = 2 1/2 oz
Domed Small Circle (2 1/2" diameter x 3/4" deep) = 2 oz
Domed Medium Circle (3" diameter x 1" deep) = 4 oz
Medium Oval (2" x 3" x 3/4" deep) = 2 1/2 oz
Domed Medium Oval (2 3/4" x 2 1/2" x 1 1/4" deep) = 4 oz
Capacity of Loaf Molds
Small Loaf Molds (3 1/4" x 4 3/4" x 2 1/2" deep food storage container) = 16 oz to fill
Medium Loaf Molds (4" x 6" x 2 3/4" deep food storage container) = 24 oz to fill
Capacity of Tube Molds
This chart lists how much soap is needed to fill 1" of a tube mold. Use it to calculate how much soap base you need for the number of bars you wish to make. My estimates are for 1" thick bars for molds 2 1/2" in diameter or larger and 1/2" thick bars for smaller tubes.
Plastic molds made for soap are 6" high; metal tube molds are 9" high. Plastic and metal candle molds range from 4" to 10" in height. The tube mold measurements are across the top of the mold and include the width of the mold material.
1" (small) circle - 1/2 oz per 1"
2" (medium) circle - 1 1/2 oz per 1"
2 3/4" (medium) circle - 3 oz per 1"
3 1/2" (large) circle - 5 oz per 1"
2" x 2 1/2" (medium) oval - 2 1/2 oz per 1"
2 1/2" x 3 1/2" (large) oval - 4 oz per 1"
1 1/2" (small) heart - 1 oz per 1"
3" (large) heart - 4 oz per 1"
1 1/2" (small) star - 1 oz per 1"
3" (large) star - 4 oz per 1"
1 1/2" (small) blossom - 1 oz per 1"
3" (large) star - 3 1/2 oz per 1"
2 1/2" butterfly - 3 1/2 oz per 1"
3" hexagon - 4 oz per 1"
3" x 4" (large) rectangle - 8 oz per 1"
Source: Designer Soapmaking by Marie Browning, Sterling Publishing, 2003. pg 23-24
Capacity of Shape Molds
Mini Rectangle (1 1/2" x 1" x 1" deep) = 2 oz
Small Rectangle (2 3/4" x 2" x 1" deep) = 3 oz
Medium Rectangle (3 1/4" x 2 1/4 " x 1" deep) = 4 oz
Medium Square (3" x 3" x 1" deep) = 5 oz
Large Square (3" x 6" x 1" deep) = 9 oz
Medium Circle (2 1/2" diameter x 1" deep) = 2 1/2 oz
Domed Small Circle (2 1/2" diameter x 3/4" deep) = 2 oz
Domed Medium Circle (3" diameter x 1" deep) = 4 oz
Medium Oval (2" x 3" x 3/4" deep) = 2 1/2 oz
Domed Medium Oval (2 3/4" x 2 1/2" x 1 1/4" deep) = 4 oz
Capacity of Loaf Molds
Small Loaf Molds (3 1/4" x 4 3/4" x 2 1/2" deep food storage container) = 16 oz to fill
Medium Loaf Molds (4" x 6" x 2 3/4" deep food storage container) = 24 oz to fill
Capacity of Tube Molds
This chart lists how much soap is needed to fill 1" of a tube mold. Use it to calculate how much soap base you need for the number of bars you wish to make. My estimates are for 1" thick bars for molds 2 1/2" in diameter or larger and 1/2" thick bars for smaller tubes.
Plastic molds made for soap are 6" high; metal tube molds are 9" high. Plastic and metal candle molds range from 4" to 10" in height. The tube mold measurements are across the top of the mold and include the width of the mold material.
1" (small) circle - 1/2 oz per 1"
2" (medium) circle - 1 1/2 oz per 1"
2 3/4" (medium) circle - 3 oz per 1"
3 1/2" (large) circle - 5 oz per 1"
2" x 2 1/2" (medium) oval - 2 1/2 oz per 1"
2 1/2" x 3 1/2" (large) oval - 4 oz per 1"
1 1/2" (small) heart - 1 oz per 1"
3" (large) heart - 4 oz per 1"
1 1/2" (small) star - 1 oz per 1"
3" (large) star - 4 oz per 1"
1 1/2" (small) blossom - 1 oz per 1"
3" (large) star - 3 1/2 oz per 1"
2 1/2" butterfly - 3 1/2 oz per 1"
3" hexagon - 4 oz per 1"
3" x 4" (large) rectangle - 8 oz per 1"
Source: Designer Soapmaking by Marie Browning, Sterling Publishing, 2003. pg 23-24
Wednesday, August 8, 2007
Body Dusting Powder
Submitted by: Unknown
Ingredients:
8 oz. cornstarch
2 ounces arrowroot powder
2 Tbsp. kaolin clay
2 Tbsp. baking powder
30 drops essential oils (optional)
Directions
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix with a wire whisk. Add essential oils by one or two drops at a time, stirring with the whisk until blended.
**Note: Blogger recommends after mixing ingredients, sift mixture to remove any lumps. Once sifted place powder into a shaker or powder container.
If you are looking for other recipes, check out some of the links in the side bar or check in my archive. There are alot of recipes in both places. I am always looking for new recipes to post on my blog, so please return in the future.
Source: http://recipes.herbalsoapsbyrj.com/recipes/category.php?CID=50
Ingredients:
8 oz. cornstarch
2 ounces arrowroot powder
2 Tbsp. kaolin clay
2 Tbsp. baking powder
30 drops essential oils (optional)
Directions
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix with a wire whisk. Add essential oils by one or two drops at a time, stirring with the whisk until blended.
**Note: Blogger recommends after mixing ingredients, sift mixture to remove any lumps. Once sifted place powder into a shaker or powder container.
If you are looking for other recipes, check out some of the links in the side bar or check in my archive. There are alot of recipes in both places. I am always looking for new recipes to post on my blog, so please return in the future.
Source: http://recipes.herbalsoapsbyrj.com/recipes/category.php?CID=50
Lemon Citrus Soak
Lemons have been used for hand and nail care for centuries. Lemon Juice and the essential oil of Lemon whitens nails while stimulating healthy growth. Try this Refreshing Citrus Soak:
Ingredients:
8 oz. spring water
1 Tablespoon Aloe Vera Gel
10 drops Lemon eo
Directions:
Mix and soak fingertips for 10 minutes.
Caution: Essential Oils from the citrus family are photosensitive when exposed to the sun resulting in a rash or increase your chances of getting sunburn. If you need to go out during the daylight hours, you may want to wear gloves.
If you are looking for other recipes, check out some of the links in the side bar or check in my archive. There are alot of recipes in both places. I am always looking for new recipes to post on my blog, so please return in the future.
Source: http://www.aromathyme.com/recipes.html
Ingredients:
8 oz. spring water
1 Tablespoon Aloe Vera Gel
10 drops Lemon eo
Directions:
Mix and soak fingertips for 10 minutes.
Caution: Essential Oils from the citrus family are photosensitive when exposed to the sun resulting in a rash or increase your chances of getting sunburn. If you need to go out during the daylight hours, you may want to wear gloves.
If you are looking for other recipes, check out some of the links in the side bar or check in my archive. There are alot of recipes in both places. I am always looking for new recipes to post on my blog, so please return in the future.
Source: http://www.aromathyme.com/recipes.html
Spa Party: Party Favors
From "Weekend Entertaining"
Episode WKE-102
DIY Network
Materials:
Tan tablecloth
Bamboo place mats
Bath salts
Carrier oils (i.e. mineral, almond, caster)
Gauze bags
Spray bottles
Eye dropper topped bottles
Scoop spoons
Sushi platforms
Picture frames
Rice paper
Raffia
Permanent marker
Orchids
Gift bags stamped with Asian symbols
A special treat for your guests is a bath and body product bar. Favors are a great way for your guests to enjoy fun after the party has ended. Instead of the traditional gift bag, you can assemble several different bath and body products and let the guests choose a few products for their own favor bag.
Chris Champagne, Visual Stylist says to give your table more presence, you can lift items up off the table. This can be achieved by using, boxes, cake platters or risers etc.
To give your tablecloth a cloud effect, place the tablecloth on the table as normal and then tuck the ends underneath.
For the centerpiece we used a pillar candle and a plant. Tuck fresh moss all around to enhance the centerpiece -- you can even add some fresh mums into the moss for an additional accent.
You can use bear grass all around the edges of the tablecloth for even more dimension.
You can use pieces of slate to create flat surfaces on top of the tablecloth. Wooden bowls and sushi trays hold some of the travel size products, loofahs and pumice stones guests can take home with them.
For the make your bath salt station, you can arrange carrier oils and concentrated oils together. The bath salts use lavender, eucalyptus and chamomile and we arranged them in bowls with a scoop (figure D) and placed them on a sushi tray. Some good carrier oils include mineral oil, grape seed, canola, safflower, sunflower, sesame, wheat germ, olive and peanut oil.
Bath Salt Recipe
Ingredients:
2 cups Epsom salts
1 cup Sea salt
6 drops eucalyptus oil
10 drops rosemary oil
15 drops peppermint oil
Preparation:
In a large bowl mix the salts first, and then add the other ingredients. MIX VERY WELL! You could also use food coloring to make the salts colorful.
For all the resources for this episode, go to the source below:
Source: http://www.diynetwork.com/diy/le_party_food_decorations/article/0,2041,DIY_14026_2276261,00.html
Episode WKE-102
DIY Network
Materials:
Tan tablecloth
Bamboo place mats
Bath salts
Carrier oils (i.e. mineral, almond, caster)
Gauze bags
Spray bottles
Eye dropper topped bottles
Scoop spoons
Sushi platforms
Picture frames
Rice paper
Raffia
Permanent marker
Orchids
Gift bags stamped with Asian symbols
A special treat for your guests is a bath and body product bar. Favors are a great way for your guests to enjoy fun after the party has ended. Instead of the traditional gift bag, you can assemble several different bath and body products and let the guests choose a few products for their own favor bag.
Chris Champagne, Visual Stylist says to give your table more presence, you can lift items up off the table. This can be achieved by using, boxes, cake platters or risers etc.
To give your tablecloth a cloud effect, place the tablecloth on the table as normal and then tuck the ends underneath.
For the centerpiece we used a pillar candle and a plant. Tuck fresh moss all around to enhance the centerpiece -- you can even add some fresh mums into the moss for an additional accent.
You can use bear grass all around the edges of the tablecloth for even more dimension.
You can use pieces of slate to create flat surfaces on top of the tablecloth. Wooden bowls and sushi trays hold some of the travel size products, loofahs and pumice stones guests can take home with them.
For the make your bath salt station, you can arrange carrier oils and concentrated oils together. The bath salts use lavender, eucalyptus and chamomile and we arranged them in bowls with a scoop (figure D) and placed them on a sushi tray. Some good carrier oils include mineral oil, grape seed, canola, safflower, sunflower, sesame, wheat germ, olive and peanut oil.
Bath Salt Recipe
Ingredients:
2 cups Epsom salts
1 cup Sea salt
6 drops eucalyptus oil
10 drops rosemary oil
15 drops peppermint oil
Preparation:
In a large bowl mix the salts first, and then add the other ingredients. MIX VERY WELL! You could also use food coloring to make the salts colorful.
For all the resources for this episode, go to the source below:
Source: http://www.diynetwork.com/diy/le_party_food_decorations/article/0,2041,DIY_14026_2276261,00.html
Tuesday, August 7, 2007
How To Effectively Use Aromatherapy Essential Oils
The use of aromatherapy essential oils is becoming an increasingly popular method of enhancing the mental and health benefits that come from choosing the natural approach towards relaxation and treatment. Today, aromatherapy is offered at clinics, health spas, and private institutions, as part of their selection of services. The use of aromatherapy essential oil therapy is also a practice that can take place within the comforts of your own home.
An aromatherapy essential oil utilizes the parts of a plant that generates a scent that can be used to treat disease and/or achieve a higher level of mental stimulation. An aromatherapy essential oil is extracted from a variety of different plant parts, including the flowers, leaves, rind, stalks, bark, or roots.
For example, an aromatherapy essential oil may come from the flowering tops of lavender and chamomile, the leaves of cinnamon and peppermint, the peel of an orange or lemon, cardamom seeds, tea tree twigs, or a handful of lemongrass. Woods, such as rosewood or cedarwood, also produce beneficial essential oils.
When the oils are mixed with another substance, such as lotion, alcohol, or other oils, an assortment of uses are created. The essential oils make great skin applications and inhalations. The oils also produce sprays to mist the air. Some people also use an aromatherapy essential oil to massage into the skin or transform common bath water. Essential oils also make convenient compresses and vaporizers.
The popularity of the aromatherapy practice has elevated since more and more are looking for healthier ways of achieving health benefits. When used in the proper manner, essential oils have the power to deliver an array of helpful changes to both the body and the mind. Essential oils do not need to pass through the digestive system and are often used as massage oils applied to the skin. Depending on how you use an aromatherapy essential oil, the substances interact with the body in a variety of different ways.
Essential oils may undergo a chemical change through the blood stream; affect various systems in the body in a physiological way; or create a psychological response when inhaled. The process that goes into creating an essential oil includes many pounds of plant parts to develop the high concentration associated with the oils. For example, about 220 pounds of rose petals are typically used to produce only 4 to 5 teaspoons of essential oil. Once the oil is used in the aromatherapy process, a stimulation of the nerves takes place, which is responsible for sending impulses to the part of the brain that controls memory and emotion. Depending on the type of chosen oil, a user may experience a calming or stimulating journey.
An aromatherapy essential oil also works with various hormones and enzymes in the body, which can generate changes in blood pressure and other bodily functions. Certain oils may also create substances that combats pain, and relieves stress. There are also certain essential oils that treat infections, burns, depression, and insomnia. A few examples of popular aromatherapy essential oils includes lavender to ease menstrual cramps, eucalyptus to treat the common cold and coughs, rosemary to improve circulation, and peppermint for a relaxed massage.
About the Author
For more information about the use of Aromatherapy Essential Oil.
Please visit our web site at http://www.aromatherapyexplained.com/
Source: ArticleTrader.com
An aromatherapy essential oil utilizes the parts of a plant that generates a scent that can be used to treat disease and/or achieve a higher level of mental stimulation. An aromatherapy essential oil is extracted from a variety of different plant parts, including the flowers, leaves, rind, stalks, bark, or roots.
For example, an aromatherapy essential oil may come from the flowering tops of lavender and chamomile, the leaves of cinnamon and peppermint, the peel of an orange or lemon, cardamom seeds, tea tree twigs, or a handful of lemongrass. Woods, such as rosewood or cedarwood, also produce beneficial essential oils.
When the oils are mixed with another substance, such as lotion, alcohol, or other oils, an assortment of uses are created. The essential oils make great skin applications and inhalations. The oils also produce sprays to mist the air. Some people also use an aromatherapy essential oil to massage into the skin or transform common bath water. Essential oils also make convenient compresses and vaporizers.
The popularity of the aromatherapy practice has elevated since more and more are looking for healthier ways of achieving health benefits. When used in the proper manner, essential oils have the power to deliver an array of helpful changes to both the body and the mind. Essential oils do not need to pass through the digestive system and are often used as massage oils applied to the skin. Depending on how you use an aromatherapy essential oil, the substances interact with the body in a variety of different ways.
Essential oils may undergo a chemical change through the blood stream; affect various systems in the body in a physiological way; or create a psychological response when inhaled. The process that goes into creating an essential oil includes many pounds of plant parts to develop the high concentration associated with the oils. For example, about 220 pounds of rose petals are typically used to produce only 4 to 5 teaspoons of essential oil. Once the oil is used in the aromatherapy process, a stimulation of the nerves takes place, which is responsible for sending impulses to the part of the brain that controls memory and emotion. Depending on the type of chosen oil, a user may experience a calming or stimulating journey.
An aromatherapy essential oil also works with various hormones and enzymes in the body, which can generate changes in blood pressure and other bodily functions. Certain oils may also create substances that combats pain, and relieves stress. There are also certain essential oils that treat infections, burns, depression, and insomnia. A few examples of popular aromatherapy essential oils includes lavender to ease menstrual cramps, eucalyptus to treat the common cold and coughs, rosemary to improve circulation, and peppermint for a relaxed massage.
About the Author
For more information about the use of Aromatherapy Essential Oil.
Please visit our web site at http://www.aromatherapyexplained.com/
Source: ArticleTrader.com
Monday, August 6, 2007
CREAMSICLE SOAP
(Submitted to Soap Wizards by Ela Heyn)
MATERIALS:
• Opaque soap base
• Soap molds (Can use any shape; can also use popsicle molds from the grocery store or candy store for this!)
• Popsicle sticks (optional)
• Color (I use FD&C red and yellow for this)
• Scents (I use an orange FO, and a non-discoloring vanilla FO)
TECHNIQUE:
1. Melt some opaque soap base, and scent it with a non-discoloring vanilla FO. Do not color it.
2. Pour into soap molds until molds are approximately 4/5 full. If adding popsicle sticks, add them now.
3. Let the soap set up.
4. Once the soap has hardened, unmold it and set it aside. Now melt a small bit of opaque soap base (approximately 1/4 to 1/3 as much as you prepared before). Scent this with your orange FO, and color it orange (1 drop of red food color to 2 or 3 drops of yellow should work nicely).
5. Pour the orange soap base in a thin layer onto the soap molds you used before. Now take the white, vanilla soap that you had made and SQUISH it very hard into the mold (and into the orange base). Either squish it hard enough that the base pours over the top of the soap (to surround all sides of the white soap), or pour additional orange base from your measuring cup over the top of the white soap. Either way, make sure that all white soap is coated under a coat of orange soap.
6. Let harden and unmold. An orange creamsicle soap just like the ice creams you enjoyed as a child in the summer!
If you are looking for other recipes, check out some of the links in the side bar or check in my archive. There are alot of recipes in both places. I am always looking for new recipes to post on my blog, so please return in the future.
Source: http://www.soapwizards.com/
MATERIALS:
• Opaque soap base
• Soap molds (Can use any shape; can also use popsicle molds from the grocery store or candy store for this!)
• Popsicle sticks (optional)
• Color (I use FD&C red and yellow for this)
• Scents (I use an orange FO, and a non-discoloring vanilla FO)
TECHNIQUE:
1. Melt some opaque soap base, and scent it with a non-discoloring vanilla FO. Do not color it.
2. Pour into soap molds until molds are approximately 4/5 full. If adding popsicle sticks, add them now.
3. Let the soap set up.
4. Once the soap has hardened, unmold it and set it aside. Now melt a small bit of opaque soap base (approximately 1/4 to 1/3 as much as you prepared before). Scent this with your orange FO, and color it orange (1 drop of red food color to 2 or 3 drops of yellow should work nicely).
5. Pour the orange soap base in a thin layer onto the soap molds you used before. Now take the white, vanilla soap that you had made and SQUISH it very hard into the mold (and into the orange base). Either squish it hard enough that the base pours over the top of the soap (to surround all sides of the white soap), or pour additional orange base from your measuring cup over the top of the white soap. Either way, make sure that all white soap is coated under a coat of orange soap.
6. Let harden and unmold. An orange creamsicle soap just like the ice creams you enjoyed as a child in the summer!
If you are looking for other recipes, check out some of the links in the side bar or check in my archive. There are alot of recipes in both places. I am always looking for new recipes to post on my blog, so please return in the future.
Source: http://www.soapwizards.com/
SOAP BOUQUET
(Submitted to Soap Wizard by Ela Heyn)
MATERIALS:
• Flower shaped lollipop molds (from a party or candy making/craft store. NY Cake and Baking also has these: 1-800-CAKE-9.)
• Lollipop sticks (usually found the same place you get lollipop molds. Wooden lollipop sticks are best.)
• Clear soap base or opaque soap base (molding soap base is better than crafting soap base for this)
• Fragrance and colors, as desired.
• Bit of green tulle, or other green materials, or artificial leaves.
TECHNIQUE:
1. Make flower shaped soaps in the lollipop molds, putting them on a lollipop stick, as you would if you were using the mold to make actual lollipops.
2. Unmold and decorate lollipop stick with "foliage" made of green fabric, or artificial leaves.
3. Wrap each soap in shrink wrap, or Saran Wrap, to prevent soap from drying out.
4. Arrange flower soaps in a vase, or tie them together with yarn to make a colorful soap bouquet. This is a particularly nice gift for Valentine's day or Mother's Day.
If you are looking for other recipes, check out some of the links in the side bar or check in my archive. There are alot of recipes in both places. I am always looking for new recipes to post on my blog, so please return in the future.
Source: http://www.soapwizards.com/
MATERIALS:
• Flower shaped lollipop molds (from a party or candy making/craft store. NY Cake and Baking also has these: 1-800-CAKE-9.)
• Lollipop sticks (usually found the same place you get lollipop molds. Wooden lollipop sticks are best.)
• Clear soap base or opaque soap base (molding soap base is better than crafting soap base for this)
• Fragrance and colors, as desired.
• Bit of green tulle, or other green materials, or artificial leaves.
TECHNIQUE:
1. Make flower shaped soaps in the lollipop molds, putting them on a lollipop stick, as you would if you were using the mold to make actual lollipops.
2. Unmold and decorate lollipop stick with "foliage" made of green fabric, or artificial leaves.
3. Wrap each soap in shrink wrap, or Saran Wrap, to prevent soap from drying out.
4. Arrange flower soaps in a vase, or tie them together with yarn to make a colorful soap bouquet. This is a particularly nice gift for Valentine's day or Mother's Day.
If you are looking for other recipes, check out some of the links in the side bar or check in my archive. There are alot of recipes in both places. I am always looking for new recipes to post on my blog, so please return in the future.
Source: http://www.soapwizards.com/
PEACH MELBA SOAP
(Submitted to Soap Wizards by Ela Heyn)
MATERIALS:
• Opaque and clear soap base (I use molding soap base)
• Peach and raspberry Fragrance Oils
• Colorant (Yellow, red and bit of blue)
• Disposable plastic water bottle, the type with an indentation in the middle
TECHNIQUE:
1. Melt some white soap base, and scent it with the peach fragrance oil (FO). Color it with a bit of yellow and a couple of touches of red, to make a nice peach color.
2. Cut the bottom off the disposable plastic water bottle; this will be your soap mold.
3. Pour peach soap base into the bottom of the water bottle to fill it. Let it set up.
4. Unmold peach soap, and set it down, indentation side up. Now heat some clear soap base, scent with raspberry, and color it with red and just a TOUCH of blue. (The TOUCH of blue will make the red appear darker).
5. Pour raspberry soap base into the indentation on the peach soap, allowing it to fill the indentation and run down the sides. Peach melba soap!
NOTE: If you want, you can even heat a bit of white soap base in a measuring cup, beat it HARD with a hand whisk, and add it to the top of the peach melba for "whipped cream".
If you are looking for other recipes, check out some of the links in the side bar or check in my archive. There are alot of recipes in both places. I am always looking for new recipes to post on my blog, so please return in the future.
Source: http://www.soapwizards.com
MATERIALS:
• Opaque and clear soap base (I use molding soap base)
• Peach and raspberry Fragrance Oils
• Colorant (Yellow, red and bit of blue)
• Disposable plastic water bottle, the type with an indentation in the middle
TECHNIQUE:
1. Melt some white soap base, and scent it with the peach fragrance oil (FO). Color it with a bit of yellow and a couple of touches of red, to make a nice peach color.
2. Cut the bottom off the disposable plastic water bottle; this will be your soap mold.
3. Pour peach soap base into the bottom of the water bottle to fill it. Let it set up.
4. Unmold peach soap, and set it down, indentation side up. Now heat some clear soap base, scent with raspberry, and color it with red and just a TOUCH of blue. (The TOUCH of blue will make the red appear darker).
5. Pour raspberry soap base into the indentation on the peach soap, allowing it to fill the indentation and run down the sides. Peach melba soap!
NOTE: If you want, you can even heat a bit of white soap base in a measuring cup, beat it HARD with a hand whisk, and add it to the top of the peach melba for "whipped cream".
If you are looking for other recipes, check out some of the links in the side bar or check in my archive. There are alot of recipes in both places. I am always looking for new recipes to post on my blog, so please return in the future.
Source: http://www.soapwizards.com
Sunday, August 5, 2007
Freeze it, Chill it, Jiggle it... Bath Jelly
If you have taken my Homemade Bath Products class and you made bath jelly, here is another recipe your may want to try.
Here's what you'll need:
1/2 cup melted transparent melt and pour soap (available from goplanetearth.com). You can also substitute the melt and pour for a liquid shower gel or bubble bath.
2 cups boiling water
1 envelope Knox brand unflavored gelatin
1/2 oz Germaben II (a preservative that prevents mold and available from many online supply companies). Only needed if you won't be using the bath jelly within a few weeks. A couple teaspoons of Vodka (yes, the kind you drink) will also help prevent mold and can be used instead of Germaben II.
1/4 to 1/2 ounce fragrance oil (available from goplanetearth.com)
Water based soap color (available from goplanetearth.com)
Several small containers, like empty yogurt containers, or plastic baby food tubs. I love the plastic baby food containers because they are clear (with no label) and have snap-on lids.
This receipe will make approximately 16 ounces of bath jelly. For firmer Jelly that you can slice, add 1 additional packet of gelatin to the above ingredients. Sliced jelly soap pictured below. I poured the gelatin/soap mixuture into a Mold Market tray mold, let set up and then gently removed from tray with a plastic spatula. The tray is scored for easy cutting.
Instructions:
1) In a bowl, add gelatin to boiling water. Slowly (and I mean slowly; you don't want to create a bunch of foam) stir until completely dissolved.
2) Set the gelatin/water mixture aside. Using a glass measuring cup, melt the soap base on a low setting in the microwave. Be careful not to overheat.
3) Allow melted soap to cool down a bit before adding fragrance and color.
4) Pour melted soap into the gelatin/water mixture. Stir slowly and gently.
5) Pour mixture into clean containers. Allow to set up in fridge until firm (3-5 hours).
6) Store any unused bath jelly in the fridge until ready to use. Like any gelatin, it will melt if stored at room temp.
NOTE: You can revise this recipe using liquid soap or bubble bath. Substitute 1/2 cup clear shower gel or bubble bath for the melt and our soap and reduce boiling water to 3/4 cups.
Improvise:
~~ Add a vinyl fish for an aquarium look
~~ Suspend small toys in the jelly
~~ Add bath confetti to the jelly mixture
**You may also want to check out the recipe from Craft Bits. It is the original recipe I found to teach in my class. Here is the link: http://www.craftbits.com/viewProject.do?projectID=3
Source: http://goplanetearth.blogspot.com/2007/06/freeze-it-chill-it-jiggle-it-bath-jelly.html
Here's what you'll need:
1/2 cup melted transparent melt and pour soap (available from goplanetearth.com). You can also substitute the melt and pour for a liquid shower gel or bubble bath.
2 cups boiling water
1 envelope Knox brand unflavored gelatin
1/2 oz Germaben II (a preservative that prevents mold and available from many online supply companies). Only needed if you won't be using the bath jelly within a few weeks. A couple teaspoons of Vodka (yes, the kind you drink) will also help prevent mold and can be used instead of Germaben II.
1/4 to 1/2 ounce fragrance oil (available from goplanetearth.com)
Water based soap color (available from goplanetearth.com)
Several small containers, like empty yogurt containers, or plastic baby food tubs. I love the plastic baby food containers because they are clear (with no label) and have snap-on lids.
This receipe will make approximately 16 ounces of bath jelly. For firmer Jelly that you can slice, add 1 additional packet of gelatin to the above ingredients. Sliced jelly soap pictured below. I poured the gelatin/soap mixuture into a Mold Market tray mold, let set up and then gently removed from tray with a plastic spatula. The tray is scored for easy cutting.
Instructions:
1) In a bowl, add gelatin to boiling water. Slowly (and I mean slowly; you don't want to create a bunch of foam) stir until completely dissolved.
2) Set the gelatin/water mixture aside. Using a glass measuring cup, melt the soap base on a low setting in the microwave. Be careful not to overheat.
3) Allow melted soap to cool down a bit before adding fragrance and color.
4) Pour melted soap into the gelatin/water mixture. Stir slowly and gently.
5) Pour mixture into clean containers. Allow to set up in fridge until firm (3-5 hours).
6) Store any unused bath jelly in the fridge until ready to use. Like any gelatin, it will melt if stored at room temp.
NOTE: You can revise this recipe using liquid soap or bubble bath. Substitute 1/2 cup clear shower gel or bubble bath for the melt and our soap and reduce boiling water to 3/4 cups.
Improvise:
~~ Add a vinyl fish for an aquarium look
~~ Suspend small toys in the jelly
~~ Add bath confetti to the jelly mixture
**You may also want to check out the recipe from Craft Bits. It is the original recipe I found to teach in my class. Here is the link: http://www.craftbits.com/viewProject.do?projectID=3
Source: http://goplanetearth.blogspot.com/2007/06/freeze-it-chill-it-jiggle-it-bath-jelly.html
Saturday, August 4, 2007
Bath Salts In A Tin
From "Carol Duvall Show"
Episode CDS-1143 (DIY Network)
Here is a perfect project to make when you are wondering what to make . . . for yourself, for a teacher gift or a neighbor gift, etc., or for something for the youngsters to make as a gift for a teacher or grandma. Our list of materials seems a bit lengthy but we got carried away with the bath salt recipe. Epson salts alone can be used if you prefer. Add a touch of fragrance and they will be perfect!
Materials:
empty food can
spray coating
card stock or 90 lb. watercolor paper
industrial strength double-sided tape
small hand drill or a nail and hammer
10-inch length of 18- or 20-gauge wire
round-nose pliers
beads
Steps:
1. Remove label from food can. We used standard sized cans of vegetables or fruit. Remove as much of the adhesive as possible to make a smooth surface.
2. Spray two or three coats of a clear protective coating on the bottom of the can and about one inch or so up the side. Dry thoroughly. NOTE: The protective coating is to prevent the can from leaving a rust spot on the tub! We found the spray coatings to be the most satisfactory.
3. Cut a piece of 90 lb. watercolor paper or card stock to fit around the can with about 1/4 inch overlap. The recently removed label can be used as a pattern. The card stock should fit between the rims around the top and bottom of the can.
4. Decorate the paper or card stock as desired with watercolors, rubber stamps, stickers, etc. Or you might choose to use patterned card stock and no decorating will be required.
5. Apply a length of double-sided tape to the seam of the can and attach one end of the card stock to the tape applying it so that one half of the tape is exposed. Apply a second strip of the tape to the backside of the opposite end of the card stock.
6. Carefully roll the card stock around the can and press the opposite end over the taped seam. Press down to make certain you have a good bond (figure B).
7. Measuring a 1/2-inch down from the top edge of the can, make a small hole using either a hand drill or a hammer and nail or an awl. Make a matching hole on the opposite side of the can.
8. Insert one end of the 10-inch length of wire into one of the holes, turn up the end of the wire and with pliers press it as close to the can as possible to secure. You might wish to coil the end a bit first (figure D).
9. Add any beads of your choice to the wire. Insert the other end of the wire through the second hole and secure. To secure the beads in place position them the way you want them then CAREFULLY add a small bead of hot glue in between the last bead and the bead next to it. Press the beads together and remove any hot glue that is showing. Repeat at the other end of the beads.
10. Mix up the bath salt mixture (recipe follows) then put the plastic bag into the can and fill it with the salts (figure E). Gather the top of the bag together, tie it with raffia or a short length of ribbon, add a small card with instructions (four scoops to one tub water) and a small scoop if desired.
Bath salts
1 c. fine sea salt
1 c. Epson salt
1c. coarse kosher salt
1/2 t. glycerin
5 -15 drops essential oil
10 - 15 drops food coloring
plastic gloves (thin plastic)
plastic bag (approximately 4" x 9") without zipper-seal closure
Steps:
1. Mix above ingredients in a bowl with a glove-covered hand until color is mixed through.
2. Place bag in the tin.
3. Spoon salt into plastic bag AFTER placing bag in the tin.
RESOURCES:
Triple Thick Spray Protective Coating
Krylon Products Group
Website: www.krylon.com
wire
Artistic Wire - wholesale only
Website: www.artisticwire.com
watercolor paints
Staedtler Inc.
Chatsworth, CA
US
Phone: 818-882-6000
Email: info@staedtler-usa.com
URL: www.staedtler-usa.com
Source: http://www.diynetwork.com/diy/shows_cds/article/0,2045,DIY_15079_2502446,00.html
Episode CDS-1143 (DIY Network)
Here is a perfect project to make when you are wondering what to make . . . for yourself, for a teacher gift or a neighbor gift, etc., or for something for the youngsters to make as a gift for a teacher or grandma. Our list of materials seems a bit lengthy but we got carried away with the bath salt recipe. Epson salts alone can be used if you prefer. Add a touch of fragrance and they will be perfect!
Materials:
empty food can
spray coating
card stock or 90 lb. watercolor paper
industrial strength double-sided tape
small hand drill or a nail and hammer
10-inch length of 18- or 20-gauge wire
round-nose pliers
beads
Steps:
1. Remove label from food can. We used standard sized cans of vegetables or fruit. Remove as much of the adhesive as possible to make a smooth surface.
2. Spray two or three coats of a clear protective coating on the bottom of the can and about one inch or so up the side. Dry thoroughly. NOTE: The protective coating is to prevent the can from leaving a rust spot on the tub! We found the spray coatings to be the most satisfactory.
3. Cut a piece of 90 lb. watercolor paper or card stock to fit around the can with about 1/4 inch overlap. The recently removed label can be used as a pattern. The card stock should fit between the rims around the top and bottom of the can.
4. Decorate the paper or card stock as desired with watercolors, rubber stamps, stickers, etc. Or you might choose to use patterned card stock and no decorating will be required.
5. Apply a length of double-sided tape to the seam of the can and attach one end of the card stock to the tape applying it so that one half of the tape is exposed. Apply a second strip of the tape to the backside of the opposite end of the card stock.
6. Carefully roll the card stock around the can and press the opposite end over the taped seam. Press down to make certain you have a good bond (figure B).
7. Measuring a 1/2-inch down from the top edge of the can, make a small hole using either a hand drill or a hammer and nail or an awl. Make a matching hole on the opposite side of the can.
8. Insert one end of the 10-inch length of wire into one of the holes, turn up the end of the wire and with pliers press it as close to the can as possible to secure. You might wish to coil the end a bit first (figure D).
9. Add any beads of your choice to the wire. Insert the other end of the wire through the second hole and secure. To secure the beads in place position them the way you want them then CAREFULLY add a small bead of hot glue in between the last bead and the bead next to it. Press the beads together and remove any hot glue that is showing. Repeat at the other end of the beads.
10. Mix up the bath salt mixture (recipe follows) then put the plastic bag into the can and fill it with the salts (figure E). Gather the top of the bag together, tie it with raffia or a short length of ribbon, add a small card with instructions (four scoops to one tub water) and a small scoop if desired.
Bath salts
1 c. fine sea salt
1 c. Epson salt
1c. coarse kosher salt
1/2 t. glycerin
5 -15 drops essential oil
10 - 15 drops food coloring
plastic gloves (thin plastic)
plastic bag (approximately 4" x 9") without zipper-seal closure
Steps:
1. Mix above ingredients in a bowl with a glove-covered hand until color is mixed through.
2. Place bag in the tin.
3. Spoon salt into plastic bag AFTER placing bag in the tin.
RESOURCES:
Triple Thick Spray Protective Coating
Krylon Products Group
Website: www.krylon.com
wire
Artistic Wire - wholesale only
Website: www.artisticwire.com
watercolor paints
Staedtler Inc.
Chatsworth, CA
US
Phone: 818-882-6000
Email: info@staedtler-usa.com
URL: www.staedtler-usa.com
Source: http://www.diynetwork.com/diy/shows_cds/article/0,2045,DIY_15079_2502446,00.html
Marketing a Craft Product
There are many ways to market your soaps and homemade bath products.
I have found that giving free samples is one of the best methods for
getting new customers for my soaps.
You can cut 16 samples from one basic 4 oz. bar of soap by cutting
the bar into 8 pieces, then cutting those pieces in half. Next, place a
piece of the soap in a small craft bag (you can get these at Stores in
the Crafts section) and label it with your business information using
regular Avery mailing labels.
To distribute your samples, place them in attractive baskets and
visit a few non-competing stores to see if they will let you leave your
baskets on their counters.
You can also staple these to your business cards, and hand them out
as you normally would a business card.
Yet another method that works better than the above two would be to
make what are called “fish bowls” and leave these at area
businesses. To make a fish bowl, first print out some cards for customer’s
information such as name, address and phone number. Next, purchase a
few containers that are clear, and that has a secure lid on them, that
are about the size of a regular fish bowl. Some people actually use fish
bowls, but I have found this causes problems because the fish bowls
break easily, and cannot be closed to prevent theft of your customer’s
information.
Now take the lid of your container, and cut a slot that is big
enough for your slips of paper that you printed off earlier to slip into
when they are folded in half. Secure your lid onto your container with
tape and then cover the tape with attractive ribbon.
Next, make a sign stating that anyone that enters your drawing for
a free “whatever” will receive a free soap sample in the mail. The
“whatever” can be a gift certificate from the store that lets you
place your fish bowls on their counters (this helps promote the store,
thus making the store owner more agreeable to letting you use their
counter space), or it can be a few bars of soap from your inventory or both
Next, locate stores that do not mind sharing some of their counter
space with you. This is where you'll place your fish bowls.
Although this method costs a bit more because you are offering a
prize, and because you will need to mail your samples, it also produces
better results than by just handing out samples.
You will get potential customers addresses and phone numbers, when
you mail your sample you can also include information about your
products, and you can also send them a follow up mailing asking for their
input on how well they liked your sample. This information can be very
valuable towards the growth of your business.
You can also package samples of your bath salts and scrubs in the
small zip lock bags as well, and use these instead if you do not make
soap.
About the Author
Paul is Head of Training for a major UK Charitable Organisation with
a wealth of experience in personal development, management development,
e-learning and operational management. In addition he owns PK eBooks
(http://www.pk-ebooks.co.uk) and has just published a Guide to Making
Soaps and Candles which can be found at
target='_blank'
class='navigation'>http://www.pk-ebooks.co.uk/making_soaps_and_candles.htm
Source:
I have found that giving free samples is one of the best methods for
getting new customers for my soaps.
You can cut 16 samples from one basic 4 oz. bar of soap by cutting
the bar into 8 pieces, then cutting those pieces in half. Next, place a
piece of the soap in a small craft bag (you can get these at Stores in
the Crafts section) and label it with your business information using
regular Avery mailing labels.
To distribute your samples, place them in attractive baskets and
visit a few non-competing stores to see if they will let you leave your
baskets on their counters.
You can also staple these to your business cards, and hand them out
as you normally would a business card.
Yet another method that works better than the above two would be to
make what are called “fish bowls” and leave these at area
businesses. To make a fish bowl, first print out some cards for customer’s
information such as name, address and phone number. Next, purchase a
few containers that are clear, and that has a secure lid on them, that
are about the size of a regular fish bowl. Some people actually use fish
bowls, but I have found this causes problems because the fish bowls
break easily, and cannot be closed to prevent theft of your customer’s
information.
Now take the lid of your container, and cut a slot that is big
enough for your slips of paper that you printed off earlier to slip into
when they are folded in half. Secure your lid onto your container with
tape and then cover the tape with attractive ribbon.
Next, make a sign stating that anyone that enters your drawing for
a free “whatever” will receive a free soap sample in the mail. The
“whatever” can be a gift certificate from the store that lets you
place your fish bowls on their counters (this helps promote the store,
thus making the store owner more agreeable to letting you use their
counter space), or it can be a few bars of soap from your inventory or both
Next, locate stores that do not mind sharing some of their counter
space with you. This is where you'll place your fish bowls.
Although this method costs a bit more because you are offering a
prize, and because you will need to mail your samples, it also produces
better results than by just handing out samples.
You will get potential customers addresses and phone numbers, when
you mail your sample you can also include information about your
products, and you can also send them a follow up mailing asking for their
input on how well they liked your sample. This information can be very
valuable towards the growth of your business.
You can also package samples of your bath salts and scrubs in the
small zip lock bags as well, and use these instead if you do not make
soap.
About the Author
Paul is Head of Training for a major UK Charitable Organisation with
a wealth of experience in personal development, management development,
e-learning and operational management. In addition he owns PK eBooks
(http://www.pk-ebooks.co.uk) and has just published a Guide to Making
Soaps and Candles which can be found at
target='_blank'
class='navigation'>http://www.pk-ebooks.co.uk/making_soaps_and_candles.htm
Source:
Proper Storage of Aromatic Oils
I have been reading a book titled, "Making Aromatherapy Creams and Lotions...101 Natural Formulas to Revitalize & Nourish Your Skin" by Donna Maria.
I always knew to store essential oils in colored bottles and keep them in a cool, dry, dark environment. And of course, the chief enemy of essential oils is oxygen, which destroys their chemical components and significantly compromises their effectiveness. But the author mentions something that I never thought of and that is the air space between the top of the oil and the lid of the bottle. She recommends having as little air space as possible. So as the oil is used, transfer the unused portion to a smaller bottle to minimize the headspace. This retards oxidation, extending the shelf life of the essential oil.
I guess the same principal can be applied to carrier oils.
I always knew to store essential oils in colored bottles and keep them in a cool, dry, dark environment. And of course, the chief enemy of essential oils is oxygen, which destroys their chemical components and significantly compromises their effectiveness. But the author mentions something that I never thought of and that is the air space between the top of the oil and the lid of the bottle. She recommends having as little air space as possible. So as the oil is used, transfer the unused portion to a smaller bottle to minimize the headspace. This retards oxidation, extending the shelf life of the essential oil.
I guess the same principal can be applied to carrier oils.
Friday, August 3, 2007
Spa Essentials: Lavender-Vanilla Bath Oil
A soothing bath oil, perfect for unwinding before bed.
Infusion Time: 4 to 6 weeks
2 fresh, plump vanilla bean pods
5 ounces organic macadamia or kukui nut oil
9 drops lavender essential oil
To prepare a vanilla infusion, lightly wash vanilla bean pods and pat dry. Allow them to dry overnight, then roll them with your fingers into a bean shape. Gently split them open with a sharp knife and mash them lightly with a spoon.
Pour macadamia or kukui nut oil into a small, airtight glass jar or bottle; place the mashed vanilla bean pods inside. Allow the vanilla essence to infuse the oil for 4 to 6 weeks, shaking it gently every few days.
After infusing, strain the oil into a container with a lid. Kept refrigerated, it will last up to six months.
To prepare a bath, add 1 to 2 tablespoons of the vanilla infusion and 9 drops of lavender essential oil to a tub of warm water. Agitate the water before entering the tub.
If you are looking for other recipes, check out some of the links in the side bar or check in my archive. There are alot of recipes in both places. I am always looking for new recipes to post on my blog, so please return in the future.
Source: http://www.marthastewart.com/
Infusion Time: 4 to 6 weeks
2 fresh, plump vanilla bean pods
5 ounces organic macadamia or kukui nut oil
9 drops lavender essential oil
To prepare a vanilla infusion, lightly wash vanilla bean pods and pat dry. Allow them to dry overnight, then roll them with your fingers into a bean shape. Gently split them open with a sharp knife and mash them lightly with a spoon.
Pour macadamia or kukui nut oil into a small, airtight glass jar or bottle; place the mashed vanilla bean pods inside. Allow the vanilla essence to infuse the oil for 4 to 6 weeks, shaking it gently every few days.
After infusing, strain the oil into a container with a lid. Kept refrigerated, it will last up to six months.
To prepare a bath, add 1 to 2 tablespoons of the vanilla infusion and 9 drops of lavender essential oil to a tub of warm water. Agitate the water before entering the tub.
If you are looking for other recipes, check out some of the links in the side bar or check in my archive. There are alot of recipes in both places. I am always looking for new recipes to post on my blog, so please return in the future.
Source: http://www.marthastewart.com/
Spa Essentials: Sugar-Marmalade Body Buff
A skin-smoothing, uplifting wake-up for a morning shower.
Infusion Time: 1 week
1 1/2 cups raw, organic sugar
1/2 cup coarsely ground organic whole oats
2 tablespoons crystallized ginger, finely chopped
Zest of 1 small orange and 1 small lemon
45 drops lemon essential oil
2 tablespoons warmed honey
1/2 cup sweet almond oil
Directions:
In a large bowl, combine sugar, oats, ginger, and the zests. Place half of the mixture in a large jar. Add lemon essential oil, then the remaining mixture. Cap, shake well, and allow to mature for one week, shaking occasionally.
For the scrub, combine the honey and sweet almond oil in a measuring cup. Drizzle the mixture into the sugar and oats. If it's too grainy, add more oil; if it's runny, add sugar.
Apply the scrub to wet skin, starting at the feet and working up. Use a circular motion toward your heart. Since scrubbing and heat can increase the absorption of essential oils, use warm, but not hot, water.
If you are looking for other recipes, check out some of the links in the side bar or check in my archive. There are alot of recipes in both places. I am always looking for new recipes to post on my blog, so please return in the future.
Source: http://www.marthastewart.com/
Infusion Time: 1 week
1 1/2 cups raw, organic sugar
1/2 cup coarsely ground organic whole oats
2 tablespoons crystallized ginger, finely chopped
Zest of 1 small orange and 1 small lemon
45 drops lemon essential oil
2 tablespoons warmed honey
1/2 cup sweet almond oil
Directions:
In a large bowl, combine sugar, oats, ginger, and the zests. Place half of the mixture in a large jar. Add lemon essential oil, then the remaining mixture. Cap, shake well, and allow to mature for one week, shaking occasionally.
For the scrub, combine the honey and sweet almond oil in a measuring cup. Drizzle the mixture into the sugar and oats. If it's too grainy, add more oil; if it's runny, add sugar.
Apply the scrub to wet skin, starting at the feet and working up. Use a circular motion toward your heart. Since scrubbing and heat can increase the absorption of essential oils, use warm, but not hot, water.
If you are looking for other recipes, check out some of the links in the side bar or check in my archive. There are alot of recipes in both places. I am always looking for new recipes to post on my blog, so please return in the future.
Source: http://www.marthastewart.com/
Thursday, August 2, 2007
Gift Wrap Soap
I saw this segment of Craft Lab on DIY discussed how to wrap soap:
http://www.diynetwork.com/diy/cr_special_days_gifts/article/0,2025,DIY_13777_5122913,00.html
Even though it discusses wrapping bought soap, this is also a great idea for the soap you make at home!
http://www.diynetwork.com/diy/cr_special_days_gifts/article/0,2025,DIY_13777_5122913,00.html
Even though it discusses wrapping bought soap, this is also a great idea for the soap you make at home!
How to Layer Melt and Pour Soap
Layering melt and pour soaps is easy. The key to making great-layered
soaps is to have the ingredients that can be made ahead of time,ready. Next, it is important to be very patient; each layer has to be thoroughly set before the next layer is added.
Good preparation involves gathering all the ingredients and tools needed. Next, it is important to have soap colorants that do not bleed into adjacent layers.
Colors sometimes differ according to manufactures. Suppliers will sometimes change color names to protect their sources and so as not to infringe on copyrighted or trademarked names. In addition, suppliers will mix their own proprietory color combinations. The chief thing to look for if you are using colors for melt and pour soaps and do not want colors that bleed into adjacent layers, is to make sure colors are non-bleeding colors. Usually colors that are pigments, micas and even colored clays will not bleed. Usually dyes will bleed. However, some suppliers may mix a combination of dyes with non-bleeding pigments and will advertise the color as a nonbleeding color. This may be true. So, one cannot say with certainty that a color with a dye product will always bleed. Still, sometimes colors that will not normally bleed in one kind of soap, may bleed in another kind of soap. The most effective way to ensure that colors are non-bleeding is to check with the manufacturer and then secondly to do your own testing.
To test a particular color, make a small test batch with desired colors layered next to an opaque white base and watch the colors over a period of two to three weeks. Sometimes it takes more that two weeks or even a month for the color bleeding to become evident. It is important to stick to suppliers who know their product and have tested the colors they are selling in different products.
Tools needed:
1. Method of melting soap (bain marie, double boiler method, microwave method, direct stove method)
2. Isopropyl alcohol, vodka or distilled water in spray bottle ( to spray one layer before adding the next)
3. Non-bleeding colors - like oxides and non-bleeding pigments. Also micas can be used.
4. Loaf or individual mold
5. Fragrance or essential oil blend
Decide how much soap will be used in each layer of soap. If the soap mold
is a loaf mold and the manufacturer says that the mold holds about 50 oz.
of soap, then decide how many ounces embeds and fragrance total. Subtract this sum from the total volume. The amount left, then can be distributed to each layer.
So, if the mold holds 50 oz. and the embeds you have on hand totals 10 oz and the fragrance is 4 oz, then the combination weight of the soap base and fragrance will have to be 40 oz.
It is important to keep a log of the amounts of each layer and embed combinations along with fragrance. If this is not done, then each time you are making layers, you will be guessing the amounts of each ingredient needed. To keep an accurate count of how much soap is used means that ingredients will not be wasted.
So, for the first batch of layered soap in each mold, weigh or measure the ingredients. If a scale is not available, then the next best thing to do is to measure the melted soap and record this amount, or approximate the weight and note the amount. This is especially important if you use many different molds.
For example, if you are using a log mold and the mold holds 50 oz. of soap and the layered soap you are making has three layers with embeds on two layers-- The first thing to do is to list the amounts to ensure that your total is not more than the mold will hold:
Have embeds ready before making the soap
Soap layer 1 = 16 oz.
Soap layer 2 = 8 oz.
Soap layer 3 = 12 oz.
Large red embed = 8 oz.
Small red embeds = 2 oz.
Fragrance oil = 4 oz
-------------------------
Total = 50 oz.
Instructions:
Melt soap according to manufacturer's directions. Allow to cool until skin forms on top. Stir, and allow to cool until lukewarm. Add color and fragrance. Follow manufactures instructions for color mixing. Some colors clump so to mix take out about 1 tablespoon of melted soap and combine with color, then add back to melted soap. It is important to work quickly so that soap does not get too thick and unworkable.
Pour soap into mold. Before embeds are placed into layer, spritz them with alcohol, or other liquid. If embeds are large, turn them over and spray all surfaces. Then add them if this is part of the design. Embeds will not sink to the bootom of the mixture if soap is cool, rather than hot. The cooler the soap the more conrol you have of where to place the embeds.
Allow soap to set and cool for about one hour or so. Soap may be placed into the refrigerator to set. However, be forwarned that soap will absorb strong odors from the refrigerator. Also, food will absorb some of the scent if soap is left in the refrigerator for a long period of time.
To Add further layers:
Check soap to make sure layer is set completely and there are no hot spots left. Spritz layer with alcohol or other liquid and pour lukewarm melted base that has been colored and fragranced. Moisten embeds with spray and add to last layer. Allow soap to set for several hours or overnight.
Source: Permission to reprint by Winsome Tapper, Soapmaking Editor, www.bellaonline.com/site/soapmaking.
soaps is to have the ingredients that can be made ahead of time,ready. Next, it is important to be very patient; each layer has to be thoroughly set before the next layer is added.
Good preparation involves gathering all the ingredients and tools needed. Next, it is important to have soap colorants that do not bleed into adjacent layers.
Colors sometimes differ according to manufactures. Suppliers will sometimes change color names to protect their sources and so as not to infringe on copyrighted or trademarked names. In addition, suppliers will mix their own proprietory color combinations. The chief thing to look for if you are using colors for melt and pour soaps and do not want colors that bleed into adjacent layers, is to make sure colors are non-bleeding colors. Usually colors that are pigments, micas and even colored clays will not bleed. Usually dyes will bleed. However, some suppliers may mix a combination of dyes with non-bleeding pigments and will advertise the color as a nonbleeding color. This may be true. So, one cannot say with certainty that a color with a dye product will always bleed. Still, sometimes colors that will not normally bleed in one kind of soap, may bleed in another kind of soap. The most effective way to ensure that colors are non-bleeding is to check with the manufacturer and then secondly to do your own testing.
To test a particular color, make a small test batch with desired colors layered next to an opaque white base and watch the colors over a period of two to three weeks. Sometimes it takes more that two weeks or even a month for the color bleeding to become evident. It is important to stick to suppliers who know their product and have tested the colors they are selling in different products.
Tools needed:
1. Method of melting soap (bain marie, double boiler method, microwave method, direct stove method)
2. Isopropyl alcohol, vodka or distilled water in spray bottle ( to spray one layer before adding the next)
3. Non-bleeding colors - like oxides and non-bleeding pigments. Also micas can be used.
4. Loaf or individual mold
5. Fragrance or essential oil blend
Decide how much soap will be used in each layer of soap. If the soap mold
is a loaf mold and the manufacturer says that the mold holds about 50 oz.
of soap, then decide how many ounces embeds and fragrance total. Subtract this sum from the total volume. The amount left, then can be distributed to each layer.
So, if the mold holds 50 oz. and the embeds you have on hand totals 10 oz and the fragrance is 4 oz, then the combination weight of the soap base and fragrance will have to be 40 oz.
It is important to keep a log of the amounts of each layer and embed combinations along with fragrance. If this is not done, then each time you are making layers, you will be guessing the amounts of each ingredient needed. To keep an accurate count of how much soap is used means that ingredients will not be wasted.
So, for the first batch of layered soap in each mold, weigh or measure the ingredients. If a scale is not available, then the next best thing to do is to measure the melted soap and record this amount, or approximate the weight and note the amount. This is especially important if you use many different molds.
For example, if you are using a log mold and the mold holds 50 oz. of soap and the layered soap you are making has three layers with embeds on two layers-- The first thing to do is to list the amounts to ensure that your total is not more than the mold will hold:
Have embeds ready before making the soap
Soap layer 1 = 16 oz.
Soap layer 2 = 8 oz.
Soap layer 3 = 12 oz.
Large red embed = 8 oz.
Small red embeds = 2 oz.
Fragrance oil = 4 oz
-------------------------
Total = 50 oz.
Instructions:
Melt soap according to manufacturer's directions. Allow to cool until skin forms on top. Stir, and allow to cool until lukewarm. Add color and fragrance. Follow manufactures instructions for color mixing. Some colors clump so to mix take out about 1 tablespoon of melted soap and combine with color, then add back to melted soap. It is important to work quickly so that soap does not get too thick and unworkable.
Pour soap into mold. Before embeds are placed into layer, spritz them with alcohol, or other liquid. If embeds are large, turn them over and spray all surfaces. Then add them if this is part of the design. Embeds will not sink to the bootom of the mixture if soap is cool, rather than hot. The cooler the soap the more conrol you have of where to place the embeds.
Allow soap to set and cool for about one hour or so. Soap may be placed into the refrigerator to set. However, be forwarned that soap will absorb strong odors from the refrigerator. Also, food will absorb some of the scent if soap is left in the refrigerator for a long period of time.
To Add further layers:
Check soap to make sure layer is set completely and there are no hot spots left. Spritz layer with alcohol or other liquid and pour lukewarm melted base that has been colored and fragranced. Moisten embeds with spray and add to last layer. Allow soap to set for several hours or overnight.
Source: Permission to reprint by Winsome Tapper, Soapmaking Editor, www.bellaonline.com/site/soapmaking.
Wednesday, August 1, 2007
To Wrap or Not to Wrap Your Soaps
According to Norma Covey, author of The Complete Soapmaker,
if you did not add any fragrance to your soap then you do not need protective wrapping. But if your soap is scented then you should always wrap your soap with plastic wrap or the scent will dissapate. Since her book is primarily on the Cold Process of making soap, I would take this advice. But on the other hand, I found that glycerin soap will sometimes sweat, it best to keep them wrapped until you are going to use them.
If you want to make your packaging more attractive, the author suggests in making your soaps more attractive in appearance, use these items in addition to your plastic wrap:
* Wax Paper
* Sewn Fabric
* Sachet Bags
* Muslin Bags
* Corrugated Cardboard (wrapped with ribbons, etc.)
* Colorful Gift Wrap
if you did not add any fragrance to your soap then you do not need protective wrapping. But if your soap is scented then you should always wrap your soap with plastic wrap or the scent will dissapate. Since her book is primarily on the Cold Process of making soap, I would take this advice. But on the other hand, I found that glycerin soap will sometimes sweat, it best to keep them wrapped until you are going to use them.
If you want to make your packaging more attractive, the author suggests in making your soaps more attractive in appearance, use these items in addition to your plastic wrap:
* Wax Paper
* Sewn Fabric
* Sachet Bags
* Muslin Bags
* Corrugated Cardboard (wrapped with ribbons, etc.)
* Colorful Gift Wrap
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