Soap-Making Kits and Molds

Soap molds create simple- to complex-shaped soaps.

Soap-making kits offer a complete package for beginning soapmakers to create their first batches of soap. Containing instructions along with a variety of soap base-oil types and natural fragrances, soap-making kits give handmade soap enthusiasts an opportunity to create their own beautiful homemade soaps. Soap-making kits provide beginning soapmakers the tools to produce a quality soap batch without worrying about gathering the right ingredients.

Identification

Soap-making kits contain all the ingredients an aspiring soapmaker needs to complete a project and instructions to guide him or her through the steps. These types of kits often contain base soap, fragrance, stirring tools and soap molds. Soap molds are heat-resistant molds into which the soapmaker pours hot liquid soap to give it its desired shape.

Types

Soap molds come in many shapes. Many soapmakers pour soap into 3- to 5-pound loaf molds. Novelty mold shapes range from common flower and seashell molds to food shapes like brownies, cupcakes or cookies. Some soap molds have multiple parts that are combined to create complex, multicolored soap art. Standard molds in soap-making kits are usually rectangular.

Cost

Soap-making kits vary in size but usually range between $18 and $20 for approximately 12 bars of soap. Individually, soap molds usually cost between $5 to $10.

Benefits

Soap-making kits provide a simple way to complete a productive craft that can be used around the home or given as gifts. Choosing custom soap-making kits allows budding soapmakers to make their own personal soaps, using favorite fragrances and omitting ingredients that act as allergens or irritants. Soap-making kits are ideal for sensitive-skinned individuals who want to learn to make their own soaps.

Considerations

Making soap using a soap-making kit involves melting the base soap in the microwave or a double boiler until it is mostly melted, then stirring the fragrance, coloring and soap additives into the melted soap before pouring it into a mold. Soap that has hardened before it can be molded can be gently reheated without harming the soap.

Warning

Though a soap-making kit can be an entertaining family project, kids should not make soap alone. The heat from the melted soap and soap containers, whether heated by microwave or by stove, can cause burns. Soap can boil over easily if overheated and should be supervised carefully whenever it is on the stove or in the microwave.

References

• "Designer Soapmaking"; Marie Browning; 2003
• "The Everything Soapmaking Book"; Alicia Grosso; 2007