How to Make Scented Melt and Pour Soap
The easiest way to make soap is the glycerin melt and pour method. The freedom to create custom scents and original designs appeals to professional soap makers and hobbyists alike. Many people have turned their hobby into a successful home business, selling their finished bars at local craft shows and farmer's markets. Hosting soap-making parties for friends and family has also become a popular way to support the hobby and use up the many bars of soap made.
Things You'll Need
- 4 oz. soap mold
- Vegetable oil spray
- Kitchen knife
- 1 lb. glycerin melt and pour soap base (transparent or opaque)
- Heat-proof glass measuring cup
- Kitchen stove top or microwave oven
- Double boiler (optional)
- Disposable bamboo chopstick
- Soap colorant (optional)
- 0.25 to 0.5 oz. fragrance oil
- Wire cooling rack
Instructions
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1
Spray the inside of the soap mold lightly with vegetable oil spray and set aside.
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2
Cut the soap base into 1/2- to 1-inch cubes using the kitchen knife, then add the squares to the glass measuring cup.
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3
Heat the soap base in the microwave oven for 20 to 30 seconds periods, stirring periodically with the chopstick, until melted. Avoid over-stirring the base to prevent air bubbles from forming. If you are not using the microwave, add the soap base to the double boiler and melt slowly over low heat, stirring gently with the chopstick until melted.
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4
Remove the soap base from the microwave or double boiler and let it cool until the steaming stops. Stir the soap colorant in using the chopstick until the desired shade is achieved, then stir in 0.25 to 0.5 oz. of fragrance oil.
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5
Pour the soap base into the prepared mold slowly and let it cool until hard (about 10 to 30 minutes), then carefully remove the soap bars from the mold. Let them cool on the wire rack. Finished soap bars can be used immediately, but they will last longer if they are allowed to air dry for two weeks.
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Tips & Warnings
Placing the soap mold in the refrigerator or freezer for five to 30 minutes will make it easier to remove the finished soap bars from the mold.
Dried flowers, oils, honey, clays, powdered milk, herbs and cosmetic grade glitter are commonly added to soap base to enhance the health benefits and visual appeal of the soap.
Melt and pour soap base becomes steaming hot and should be handled carefully to avoid burns.
Fragrance oils may irritate the skin or cause an allergic reaction. Research each of your ingredients to maintain safety and proper use.
In case of irritation, allergic reaction, or accidental burns, wash or flush the area with water and seek medical attention as required.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Hemera Technologies/PhotoObjects.net/Getty Images
