How to Use Ivory Soap in Molds
Ivory soap or any other plain, white, unscented and dye-free soap can be re-batched and poured into soap molds to create new soap. Hand-milling is a process that involves grating or shredding ready-made soap, melting it, and re-configuring it into new shapes. The addition of additives such as scents, dyes and herbs makes re-batched soap even more special. A microwave is used in this process with good results. Look for soap supplies in most craft stores. Plain, white soap can be purchased at any grocery or drug store.
Things You'll Need
- 1 pound of white soap
- Grater
- Microwave-safe glass bowl
- Plastic wrap
- 4 ounces of water
- 3 to 6 drops of food coloring
- Wooden spoon
- 1 teaspoon of dried herbs
- 1 teaspoon of fragrance oil or essential oil
- Soap molds
Instructions
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1
Grate the soap using a grater and place in a microwave-safe glass bowl. Add the water and food coloring, and stir gently using a wooden spoon.
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2
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place in the microwave. Set the microwave to medium and melt the soap mixture for three minutes.
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3
Remove the bowl from the microwave and carefully check to see if the mixture is completely melted through. The soap should start to appear translucent. Repeat heating again in three-minute intervals until all the water is easily stirred throughout the soap mass.
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4
Remove from the microwave and allow to cool down slightly before you begin stirring in the additives. Once it cools a little, sprinkle your desired herb into the soap mass and stir to incorporate completely.
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5
Stir in the fragrance oil or essential oil and incorporate well.
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6
Scrape the soap out of the bowl and place into the soap molds. Keep in mind that melted soap that is too hot can melt some molds. Make sure the soap mixture is cool enough to handle, yet liquid enough to pour.
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7
Smooth the top of the soap and cover with plastic wrap. Allow to dry completely and set up. Once firm, release the soap from the mold by gently pressing on the back of the mold and twisting it a little. You can speed up the cooling and setting process by placing the molds in the refrigerator.
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8
Let air dry for a week or more, turning the bars daily so that they dry evenly. Wrap in decorative paper.
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