Soap Making - Simple Recipes, Oils, and a Tip or Two

How to rebatch soap

2011-10-26T08:56:00.000-07:00

Save your soap scraps and remelt them for some new soap quickly and easily with this simple idea.

If you made an opps batch with too little scent, not enough moisture, or whatever, you can easily remelt it and add a little bit of stuff to make a new batch you will like a lot better.

First just shave the batch into a small container, I used a cheese grater. Then put the shavings into a small pan. Use a larger pan underneath that pan and fill with water. I put my pan of shavings into a plug in pancake cooker filled with water. Into the pan of shavings I added a cup of water, 1/2 cup of each - coconut oil and grapeseed oil. Let the mixture heat slowly, stir as it melts. When the mixture is like mushy oatmeal, I added some fragrance oil and some chamomile shavings. Then I poured the mixture into a small plastic container lined with freezer paper so it would be easy to remove from the container. I covered the pan with clear plastic wrap to let it cool slowly, over top of the plastic I put a towel. When cooled, I lifted the soap out of the container and sliced.

THE ORIGINAL BATCH WAS MADE IN A CROCKPUT BUT I DIDN'T ADD ENOUGH LEMONGRASS OIL SO WHEN I REMELTED THE SHAVED SOAP, I ADDED A FRAGRANCE OIL CALLED butt naked. WHEN THE LEMONGRASS OIL AND BUTT NAKED OILS WERE MIXED, THEY CREATED A WONDERFUL FRUITY SCENT, THE EXTRA COCONUT OIL ACHIEVED THE NECESSARY MOISTURE I WAS LOOKING FOR SO THE NEW BATCH IS A SUCCESS.

IF YOU HAVE A DOUBLE BROILER SET THAT WORKS GREAT !!

Another method for fun soaps is to save chunks of soap or scraps from leftovers and add them to a container. Then melt some chunks of clear gylcerine base from your craft store, add some oils, ground herbs or oatmeal after heating the the base, pour over the chunks, let cool, remove from container, and use. I got some fantastic recipes from the following book.

Soapmaking the Natural Way

Make sure you visit some of my other pages :

Learn the benefits of tea tree oil in soap

HAPPY SOAP MAKING !!

The Healing Powers of Jasmine Oil in Soaps

2011-08-23T09:04:00.000-07:00

A sturdy evergreen shrub of bright green leaves with white star shaped flowers, Jasmine has a sweet and floral aroma, native of Asia and Africa, and is one of the oldest and widely used scented flower.

Jasmine flowers bloom only at night hence they are hand picked at night time only. Being one of the most delicate and extremely fragile flowers, jasmine essential oil is steam distilled from its flowers. Huge quantities of jasmine petals are required to prepare one ounce of essential oil, hence it is rare, extremely valuable and a highly sought after oil.

Jasmine is preferred for its powerful characteristics that assist the body as an anti depressant, an aphrodisiac and has confidence boosting qualities. The Chinese drink jasmine tea daily and use it to cleanse the air in sick rooms while Egyptians use it to relieve nervous disorders, insomnia and headaches.

Monoi Pitate (Coconut Oil w/ Jasmine) 4 oz 4 Ounces

Jasmine known to have aphrodisiac powers was used in different cultures in various ceremonies. The sensuously rich and exotic aroma of jasmine based massage oil can certainly be relied upon to evoke a romantic mood.

Jasmine oil despite being expensive is worthy for the skin. It encourages cell growth; increases skin elasticity and aids in healing minor to moderate burns. It is especially effective for people suffering from symptoms of apathy and fatigue as it helps in reducing fears. It also helps with muscle spasm and sprains.

Buy Jasmine Oil

Jasmine with its many healing properties acts as an antiseptic, anti-inflammatory agent and a sedative. It is considered as base oil for blending with other essential oil. When blended with herbs like Clary sage, geranium, lemon balm, rose, rosewood and sandalwood, it promotes the body's natural way of healing, making it indispensable in the world of aromatherapy.

Jasmine essential oil when massaged on the abdomen during the later stages of labor strengthens uterine contractions and relieves pain.

For stimulating bath oil, try this oil -

1/2 cup soy oil
5 drops of jasmine essential oil
3 drops of juniper essential oil
4 - 5 vitamin E capsules.
squeeze the oil from 4 or 5 vitamin E capsules

Indulge your self with a massage, blend the following ingredients well -

8 tsp grape seed oil
6 drops of jasmine essential oil
2 drops each of tea tree oil and neroli oil. Before application warm the oils.

To create soothing and refreshing hair oil for scalp, blend:
2 drops rosemary oil
2 drops lavender
2 drops clary sage
2 drops jasmine absolute to 1/2 ounce base oil.

Soapmaking the Natural Way: 45 Melt-and-Pour Recipes Using Herbs, Flowers & Essential Oils

Creating Your Own Soap Recipe

2011-08-09T09:00:00.000-07:00

Once you've mastered the basics of soap making, it's fun to create your own recipes.

You have to have the proper mix of fats, oils, scent, and a good recipe will ensure you have success in creating your own luxurious recipe. STUDY OILS AND RECIPES WELL BEFORE YOU BEGIN - AND PLEASE BE CAREFUL !!!

First, you have to decide what method of soap making you're going to make. Are you going to use the cold process method (with lye), the rebatched/handmilled method or the melt and pour method?

Next, what kind of soap do you want to make? For example, prettily molded hand soap or moisturizing soap to use in the bath or shower?

Are you going to superfat your soap? Superfatting is when you add additional fatty oils after saponification to make a richer, creamier soap. There are all kinds of different oils you can use in superfatting, including shea butter and cocoa butter.

What color do you want your soap? What do you want your soap to smell like? What shape and size mold do you want to use? These are important questions to consider.

Do you want to include additives such as oatmeal, flower petals or glitter?

Once you've carefully crafted your own recipe and written instructions, have all the ingredients and equipment necessary, it's time to start making your soap.

If you are not sure yet, you can buy homemade soap from

my Amazon store - but I can assure you, once you try homemade soap you will never go back !!!
I NEVER DID !

Now don't forget you have to allow time for the soap to set and cure. If you're making cold process soap, this take two weeks. On the other hand, making soap using the melt and pour method only takes a few hours to set, even less if you put it in the refrigerator!

If you plan on giving your soap to friends and family, they're sure to be impressed by the fact that you made the soap yourself, using your own recipe! If you know they like a specific scent, shapes or colors, you can tailor make the soap to their liking, eg, making lavender seashells for someone who likes seashells and lavender fragrance.

It's really satisfying to make soap using your own recipe. Once you've mastered the art of soap making, or even enjoying the process of mastering it, you may find it hard to stop!

Soapmaking the Natural Way: 45 Melt-and-Pour Recipes Using Herbs, Flowers & Essential Oils

The Everything Soapmaking Book: Recipes and Techniques for Creating Colorful and Fragrant Soaps (Everything: Sports and Hobbies)

Rejuvenate Your Body By Using Herbs: The Ultimate Herbal Guide That Will Tell You Everything About Herbs That You Need To Know. It Shows You The Best Natural ... Plant A Herb Garden And The Best Herbs List!

Organic Body Care Recipes: 175 Homeade Herbal Formulas for Glowing Skin & a Vibrant Self

Calming herbs for soapmaking and Bathing

2011-07-26T08:37:00.000-07:00

Herbs and flowers aren't just for soapmaking. Just imagine the calming feeling you get when you use the best herbs you can grow in your own backyard, kitchen window, or just about anywhere you can fit a small flower pot !!

Imagine your self floating in a gigantic bathtub full of herbs hugging your skin; its magical powers take away your tensions, your worries melt away leaving you feeling totally refreshed.

Bathing with herbs is a calming way to relax in today's fast paced stressful life. It is a soothing way to start a new day and a blissful send-off to bed. Herbs and its essential oils soothes aching muscles, tense nerves, skin irritations, softens skin and ensures peace and tranquility.

Set the stage for your bath with a clean fresh bathroom. Keep clean towels, bath gels, herbs, loofah, etc handy. Choose relaxing music, light aromatic candles around you. All in all make sure that everything you need for your luxury is within arms reach.

While filling your tub with warm water, create a bag of your favourite herbs to be used in bathing. It is ideal that you give your skin a quick loofah brush head to toe before you start. This exfoliates the top layer of dead skin cells so your skin is more willing to grow new cells. To create an herb bag, fill a muslin cloth or even an old clean stocking with your favourite herbs. Dip it in your bath, letting the herbs gently soak in the water. Bath salts, citrus leaves, dried rose petals, dried lavender flowers to name a few to create an herb bag. If you don't have the fondness of creating your own bag of herbs, you can definitely buy ready made herb bags at your local craft or beauty store.

Not more than 5 drops of essential oils should be used in a bath. Dilute it with milk or carrier oil. Below is a small list of some of the most common herbs and essential oils you can use in soapmaking, and bathing because of their calming properties.

- Black Pepper - relief for aching muscles
- Clary Sage - as a perk me up and premenstrual tension
- Eucalyptus - for respiratory problems
- Geranium - for very dry or itchy skin, eczema and PMS
- Jasmine - when you wish to feel luxurious
- Lavender - dry skin, eczema, sprains, hot flashes, headaches, over work, insomnia
- Orange - to pep you up
- Rosemary - to get you going in the morning, a quick pick-me-up in the evening.

Also good for aches and soothing your muscles

- Chamomile, Lavender or roses are good for dry, delicate or irritated skin.
- Rosemary, Calendula and Thyme for oily skin.
- Lemon Balm - good for hyperactive children
- Citrus & Lavender - soothing and therapeutic properties
- Ylang Ylang - exfoliates and moisturizes the skin
- Apricot and Amber - moisturises, restores softness and suppleness to skin.
- Chamomile - aids in relief of aching muscles and nervousness
- Eucalyptus - opens the pores and the vapours from the bath help to clear the breathing passages.

Make sure that your bath time is a time of solitude. Just let yourself luxuriate in this soothing watery haven. And don't forget to put a "Do Not Disturb" sign on the door :)

P.S. It's also a good time to meditate

Eco Tools Bamboo Loofah Brush 1 ea

Masada Mineral Herb Spa 100% Natural Dead Sea Mineral Salts with Herbs & Aromas, Joint & Muscle, 2 lbs (907 g) (Pack of 2)

Lavender Sensations: Fragrant Herbs For Home & Bath

Toysmith Italian Herb Trio Green Ceramic Window Set of 3 Stoneware

I love making melt and pour soap

2011-07-14T08:29:00.000-07:00

I love making soap using the melt and pour soap making method. In my experience it's the easiest way to make your own hand made soap. A good recipe is a must if you're just starting out, but once you're experienced, you can make up your own recipes and get really creative. How about Double Chocolate Brownie soap?

Recipe :

Melt 8 oz clear glycerine soap in a microwave safe pyrex cup

add: 1 tsp cocoa powder - stir well
then add 1 tsp of chocolate scented oil - stir again

pour mix into mold of your choice, let cool, use !!!

Scented Oil: Chocolate (1/2oz)

Scented Oil: Chocolate Raspberry (1/2oz)

Scented Oil: Chocolate Mint (1/2oz)

Melt and pour soap comes in soap blocks, ready to melt and pour into the mold of your choice.
But the exciting part comes once you've melted the soap block. Then you get to add your own choice of soap coloring, fragrance and fun additives; for instance, oatmeal, flower petals or herbs.

Once that's done, it's time to pour it into the molds of your choice. There are some really cute soap molds available. For example, hearts, flowers, seashells, gingerbread men and many others.

Melt and pour soap only takes a few hours to set at room temperature. If you don't want to wait that long, you can place the molds in the refrigerator for about an hour. But never place the molds in the freezer.

Once the soap has set in the molds, it's time to unmold it. Just turn the mold upside down on a clean soft surface (so the soap doesn't chip if it comes out with a rush) and the soap should pop out. If you're having trouble getting the soap out of the mold, run some warm water over the base of the mold and try again.

Now your very own hand made soap is ready to use! It makes great gifts to give to your friends and family, especially if you use cute molds like the ones mentioned above. I know my friends are impressed when I give them gorgeously scented and coloured heart or flower shaped soaps and tell them I made them myself.

So have fun making your own melt and pour soap. The only problem is, once you start, it's hard to stop!

Get more simple

soap making recipes

Soapmaking the Natural Way Book contains some of the easiest recipes I have ever used

Soapmaking the Natural Way: 45 Melt-and-Pour Recipes Using Herbs, Flowers & Essential Oils

Make Laundry Soap from Grated Bars

2011-07-06T08:44:00.000-07:00

YOU CAN USE PRETTY MUCH ANY GRATED BAR SOAP FOR THE RECIPE BELOW.

Now for more soapmaking fun :

So, your filled with excitement because you've just made that first batch of wonderful homemade bar soap. You're giddy with accomplishment, and have it prominently displayed in every bathroom. But why stop there?

Each little scrap of soap you've made, from the imperfect bar that you're not sure what to do with, to the crumbs and shavings left over, can be turned into valuable cleaning products for your home.

How much do you think you could save each year if you no longer had to buy laundry soap? Beyond the financial savings you could achieve, there are some serious health benefits as well. Virtually all laundry soap on the market today is a petroleum-based detergent, the vast majority containing dyes and perfumes that can aggravate allergy problems. After all, when you lay down to sleep at night, you have your nose pressed up against pillows, pillowcases, and sheets all washed in these chemicals. If you think this can't cause problems, l
know plenty of people suffering from allergies, do you?

Making your own laundry soap is easy. Because we have a septic system, I prefer liquid laundry soap. The following recipe can be made in a couple of hours, all from the scraps of your soap making ventures.

Ingredients:
16 oz. of homemade soap grated or cut into small chunks (Any kind will do.),
48 oz. water,
16 oz. white vinegar

Combine all ingredients into a large pot and simmer on a very low heat for 2 - 3 hours, stirring occasionally. Continue to heat until the soap chunks are completely dissolved. Your liquid soap will be quite thick, but it will thin a bit once it has completely cooled. Allow your soap to cool, and then funnel it into a jug or old laundry soap container that has been thoroughly rinsed.

To Use: Add 1 cup of laundry soap to the water in your washing machine before putting in the clothes.

I have always used Olive Oil Soap, as this is the only soap I tend to make, and I am consistently amazed at how well it cleans. I never have a problem with oily spots on clothes, and seldom have to bother with pre-treating a stain.

Smart Soapmaking: The Simple Guide to Making Traditional Handmade Soap Quickly, Safely, and Reliably, or How to Make Luxurious Handcrafted Soaps for Family, Friends, and Yourself

Organic Body Care Recipes: 175 Homeade Herbal Formulas for Glowing Skin & a Vibrant Self

Quick and Easy to Make Massage Melts

2011-07-01T10:17:00.000-07:00

Massage melts are an interesting body product because they stay solid at room temperatures, but when applied directly to your skin, start to soften and melt due to body temperature. Their main purpose is to moisturize dry skin, as well as, relax and soothe tight muscles. Massage melts are also great when you meditate

Essentially, massage bars are composed of natural butters and oils. Most recipes for this type of product use cocoa butter. Even though it has great moisturizing properties, cocoa butter produces too hard a product. Therefore, I recommend using such butters as shea and mango, which create a silkier, luxurious feeling to your melts.

For oils, I highly recommend using sweet almond and jojoba. Sweet almond oil is light and penetrates easily making it well-suited for dry skin conditions. Plus, it is effective on all skin types. Jojoba oil, which is not actually an oil but a liquid wax, is similar in composition to the oil your skin secretes, which is known as sebum. Jojoba is quickly absorbed into the skin, and it also extends the shelf life of other oils.

Other "light" oils you can substitute, for the above, are apricot kernel, grapeseed, sunflower, safflower, or soybean. Rounding out the rest of the ingredients are beeswax, vitamin E, and essential and fragrance oils.

Beeswax helps formulations keep their shape, as well as, act as a humectant. Vitamin E oil protects your product from rancidity and is also a great natural antioxidant. Essential oils are natural ingredients that are the very essence of the plant itself. Extracted from the flowers, fruit, leaves, bark, and roots of the plant, the oils are used for scent and therapeutic purposes. A word of caution, due to their volatility, research any essential oil before use. Fragrance oils, though synthetic in nature, do provide an inexpensive and easy way to achieve a scent that might not be possible with essential oils.

Ingredients:
3 oz. of shea butter
3 oz. of beeswax
2 oz. of jojoba oil
2 oz. of sweet almond oil
tsp. of Vitamin E

Equipment:
Mold(s) of your choice
1 digital cooking thermometer
2 Pyrex glass measuring cups
1 small digital postal scale
1 set of measuring aluminum spoons
Wax paper for measuring on the scale
Plastic wrap to cover Pyrex cups

Directions:
Step 1: Gather all equipment onto a clean, sterile surface. Place a sheet of wax paper over the small digital postal scale to measure out the shea butter and beeswax base. Place base in a Pyrex cup and cover with plastic wrap. Melt ingredients, completely, in the microwave.

Step 2: While the base is melting, use the second Pyrex cup for your jojoba, sweet almond, vitamin E, and essential/fragrance oils (if used). Mix, cover with plastic wrap, and set aside.

Step 3: Once the base has melted, mix thoroughly. Pour the Pyrex cup from step 2 into the base Pyrex cup, mix together, and pour into your mold(s). Set aside for a couple of hours to cool and set. When soft, transfer the melts to the fridge until they are really hard. They should just pop out of the molds easily. Massage into skin and let product become absorbed. Due to melting properties, keep unused portions out of direct sunlight and store in a cool place.

Note: If you plan on using essential and/or fragrance oils in your recipe, place a digital thermometer in the melted shea butter and beeswax base. Wait for the temperature to drop down to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Anything higher will burn off the fragrant oils. After the temperature has reached this point immediately dump your Pyrex cup from step 2 into the Pyrex cup with the base, mix quickly, and pour into your mold(s). Follow the rest of step 3 instructions.

Muscle Relief Essential Oil Blend
tsp. of Eucalyptus
tsp. of Peppermint (do not use if pregnant)
30 drops of Rosemary

Tropical Fragrance Oil Blend (Substitute shea butter with mango butter)
tsp of Heliotrope fragrance oil
tsp of Coconut Milk fragrance oil
30-50 drops of Tahitian Vanilla fragrance oil

All recipe ingredients, listed above, can be found by searching Google.com.

Lavender Massage Melt

MAKE YOUR OWN MASSAGE MELTS FOR EVEN MORE UNIQUE ENJOYMENT

The Herbal Home Spa: Naturally Refreshing Wraps, Rubs, Lotions, Masks, Oils, and Scrubs (Herbal Body)

Essential Oils Integrative Medical Guide: Building Immunity, Increasing Longevity, and Enhancing Mental Performance With Therapeutic-Grade Essential Oils

The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy: Over 600 Natural, Non-Toxic and Fragrant Recipes to Create Health - Beauty - a Safe Home Environment

Soapmaking oils are GOOD for MASSAGE

2011-06-29T09:33:00.000-07:00

Whether you decide to get a half hour, or one hour massage, you can use your oils that you use for soapmaking for a massage too.. There are many types of massage, just as there are many types of oils.

The Massage Book: 25th Anniversary Edition

The important thing to remember, is to study first. Get to know your oils, the health condition of the person getting the massage, and what oils work best for their condition and skin type.

The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy: Over 600 Natural, Non-Toxic and Fragrant Recipes to Create Health - Beauty - a Safe Home Environment

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO GET MORE INTO THE MEDICAL STUFF, THIS IS A GREAT BOOK FOR YOU TO UNDERSTAND HOW OILS AFFECT DIFFERENT PARTS OF THE BODY.

Essessential Oils are also great for Meditation

Essential Oils Integrative Medical Guide: Building Immunity, Increasing Longevity, and Enhancing Mental Performance With Therapeutic-Grade Essential Oils

Synergy Blends- (Aphrodisiac, Breathe Easy, Meditation, Renew, Relaxation, Stress Relief) Top 6 Basic Sampler Pack 100% Pure Essential Oil Gift Set- 6/10 ml

Aromatherapy Candles- Lavender, Lemongrass & Orange, Cinnamon Spice- made with 100% pure essential oils - 72 hr. total burn time

Eucalyptus & Peppermint Aromatherapy Candle- 24 hr. burn time- made with 100% pure essential oils

Soapmaking on Amazon

2011-05-15T14:03:00.000-07:00

Why buy homemade soap ??? Commercial soap has been stripped of its natural glycerine and replaced with unhealthy chemicals. Once you try homemade soap, you will immediately see the difference in how it rinses off of your skin, how its scent gently lingers after your shower, and how you feel long after your shower. Just do a little research to see what oils are intended for your personal use.

FIRST, before you get started, try using homemade soap, then do your research, then make some soap. Visit any of my pages on : Squidoo for recipes, tips and other ideas. I have used the soap from Plantlife and it is a very good place to start

LOOKING TO HELP A PARTICULAR SKIN CARE PROBLEM, START WITH A GOOD BOOK TO LEARN ALL ABOUT WHAT A TOP NOTE IS, LEARN HOW PEPPERMINT OIL SOOTHES TIRED MUSCLES, TEA TREE OIL HELPS GET RID OF WARTS, WHAT MAKES SOAP LATHER, WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ESSENTIAL AND FRAGRANCE OILS AND MUCH MORE

Remember to avoid Juniper during pregnancy or if you have kidney disease, avoid rosemary oil if you have high blood pressure, also do not use essential oils on children under 1 year old, use smaller amounts on kids over 1 year but again, study oils carefully before using them. Check to see what oils may conflict with any prescriptions you are taking, always be careful handling hot liquids.

Here is a quick list of favorite oils :

Frankincense - grows wild in North Africa - used in many cosmetics - blends well with lavender and rose oils

Cinnamon - bark oil can be irritating to some skin types - can be great for toning, helps stimulate and lift moods - blends great with clove and eucalyptus oils

Bergamot - increases skins sensitivity to sunlight - blends well with pine and rosemary oils

Lavender - calming - may be used antidepressant - mixes well with ylang ylang and geranium oils - avoid if pregnant.

Tea Tree - anti fungal - fights infection very well - blends well with clove, lemon, pine and eucalyptus oils. THERE ARE MANY MORE - LEARN FROM A GREAT BOOK BELOW !!!

Visit my Amazon store for the best prices around - just click on a soap !!!

Patchouli 100% Pure & Natural Aromatherapy Herbal Soap- 4 oz (113g)Oatmeal Almond 100% Pure & Natural Aromatherapy Herbal Soap- 4 oz (113g)Coconut Lime 100% Pure & Natural Aromatherapy Herbal Soap- 4 oz (113g)Eucalyptus Aromatherapy Herbal Soap - 4 oz (113g)Ginger Berry Aromatherapy Herbal Soap - 4 oz Geisha Soap Organic Pirate's Rum Soap 4oz Bar Loaf of Lemongrass 100% Pure & Natural Aromatherapy Herbal Soap- 5.25 lbs.Ramie Reindeer with Oatberry Aromatherapy Soap Geisha Soap Organic Jasmine Flower Soap 4oz Bar Geisha Soap Organic Fuji San Soap 4oz Bar Geisha Soap Organic Dragon Soap 4oz Bar (for Men)Geisha Soap Organic Sacred Ganga Soap 4oz Bar Geisha Soap Organic Don Juan "The Lover" Soap 4 oz Bar Geisha Soap Organic Sea Dragon Soap 4oz Bar

RECOMMENDED READING FOR YOUR SOAPMAKING

Complete Book of Essential Oils and AromaTherapy - Aromatherapy & Oils

Aromatherapy 6 Week Course - Take Charge of your Health with Essential Oils!The Essential Oils Book: Creating Personal Blends for Mind & Body The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils: The Complete Guide to the Use of Oils in Aromatherapy & Herbalism The Complete Book of Incense, Oils and Brews (Llewellyn's Practical Magick)Healing Oils Of The Bible The Little Book of Aromatherapy

Soapmaking the Natural Way: 45 Melt-and-Pour Recipes Using Herbs, Flowers & Essential Oils Soap Maker's Workshop: The Art and Craft of Natural Homemade Soap The Soapmaker's Companion: A Comprehensive Guide with Recipes, Techniques & Know-How (Natural Body Series - The Natural Way to Enhance Your Life)Basic Soap Making: All the Skills and Tools You Need to Get Started (How To Basics)

The Many Benefits of Grapeseed Oil in Soapmaking

2011-01-30T07:04:00.001-08:00

Research suggests grapeseed oil has medicinal as wellas nutritional properties.

Grapeseed oil is a great source of vitamin E, flavanoids, essential fatty acids, and polyfenals.

Grapeseed oil is excellent for treating acne, some types of cancers, rheumatoid arthritis, stretch marks and wrinkles are just a few

Side effects from too large a dose may include headache, dizzyness, soft stools, diarrhea, as with any medicine, prescription or natural, follow instructions and check with your doctor to adjust your personal dosage.

Now lets have some fun and make some soap in a crockpot - this lady had the nicest and easiest to follow video possible, I use it as my favorite way to make soap now.

More on soapmaking

Taking Grapeseed extract twice daily can be beneficial in reparing damaged blood vessels which cause high blood pressure and hemorrhoids - again consult with your doctor.

Not only does Grapeseed oil soften your skin and may help lower your blood pressure, it is also used in massage oils, body and face moisturizers, ointments, sunblocks, and just about anything you put on your skin. I use it to make my homemade lip balms and in the winter it makes a huge difference in keeping my lips moist and eliminates the usual cracking associated with cold temperatures.

Soap Making Colorants

2010-06-19T07:28:00.000-07:00

Depending on which kind of soap you are making, coloring your soap is by choice. Some people add color, while some people choose to keep their soaps completely natural.
There are many ways to color your soaps. Newbies sometimes begin their journey with colorants from the craft store as they are the easiest to begin with. Make sure the color is for soaps and says non-bleeding on the package.

Others use more natural methods for adding color such as :

Paprika - for orange or peachy tones
Chlorophyl, Spirulina, or Alfalfa powder-makes green colors
Clays - makes shades of pinks or reds depending on the clay
Annatto seeds make a yellow color

Some people swirl a crayon through their soap to make swirling designs that temps the eyes.

FOR MORE COLOR AND RECIPE IDEAS VISIT;

http://www.squidoo.com/simplesoapmakingathome

A GREAT RECIPE

Always use caution and your safety equipment when necessary

use about 3 0z of melted white glycerine soap base cut into chunks and melt
melt in microwave safe measuring cup or heat in a double boiler pan on stove top(buy at craft store)

add: a few drops of non-bleeding red colorant (or your other choice)

stir in: 6 drops cinnamon fragrance oil
6 drops ginger fragrance oil

shaved cinnamon optional for appearance , can also add vitamin E from a capsule too !!

Pour into mold, let cool, use

Another good colorant which also adds a great aroma is Cinnamon, and when added to Cardamon, makes a nice bar of soap.

Soapmaking and Essential Oil Uses

2010-01-07T08:37:00.000-08:00

I see a lot of people are wondering what is the correct amount of herbs and oils to use in their soapmaking and other spa products. Well, the answer is not a simple one.

It mostly depends on the recipe you are using. Whether it is melt and pour
(recommended for beginners), or hand-milled which is shaved soap or a base ingredient, or is it made from scratch which is the most difficult to learn.

Which ever method you use, you must have some sort of recipe.

I like recipes that are easy to understand like 2 ounces or 1 tbsp or 10 drops. Some people get carried away with calculations like 2.35 oz and such and that is ok if it works for them. If you are a beginner though, you need to find a good spot with easy to understand recipes.

MAKE YOURSELF PROUD - DESIGN YOUR OWN T SHIRT OR MUG OR WHATEVER

http://shop.cafepress.com/gift-center

I just recently read a new web page that recommended a great sight with tons of information on it from how to including a place to SHOP - that's right ladies, I said "shop" for herbs, supplies, it has recipes and loads of items to purchase.

Make your own soaps or buy some of theirs

Another fantastic place with really creative ideas for the more advanced soapmaker is

http://goplanetearth.blogspot.com

If you like Tea Tree Oil - this is my favorite ingredient, you can see my personal story at

MEET ME HERE !!!

http://www.teatreewonders.com/getting-rid-of-dry-hair.html

Getting rid of dry hair

by Debbie
(Oxford, Michigan)

Michigan Soapmaker

This is one of my favorite sites to visit regularly and I send people here from

my web pages and stuff as I love the endless possibilities for using tea tree oil.

I highlight and dye my hair regularly to hide the gray so my hair tends to be dry. I alternate using tea tree oil in my regular shampoo and when that is gone I add a few drops to my conditioner. My hair doesn't get greasy as fast and it is nowhere near as dry as it used to be.

My other favorite use is for a cleaning solution, it makes my kitchen smell good and it is a lot less caustic when absorbed into the skin.

Last but not least - tea tree oil is like none other in healing skin that has been damaged from cuts, sores, and bug bites etc... IT IS JUST PLAIN AWESOME STUFF!

IT ALSO WORKS GREAT FOR YOUR PETS TOO !!!

Learn all about it at: http://teatreewonders.com

THERE ARE MANY DIFFERENT TYPES OF OILS, BUT HERE

IS THE THREE MOST BASIC ;

What is the difference between carrier, essential, and fragrance oils

This is a quick basic, for more detailed info, buy a book about essential oils

CARRIER OILS - Act as a fixative and may help the evaporation of other oils and botanicals that give your soap mixture its beautiful fragrance. Oils include palm, coconut, almond, olive, castor etc. )

ESSENTIAL OILS - Should be mixed with base oils , carrier oils and fragrance oil, as they can be irritating to some skin types if used full strength. They are derived from the actual plant, leaves, roots and main plant parts. Cold pressed oils keep their vitamin and mineral content somewhat better than fragrance oils.

FRAGRANCE OILS - Blended oils - can also be expensive depending on what they are mixed with. Also adds to the fragrance of your soap.

STUDY OILS CAREFULLY BEFORE YOU BEGIN SOAPMAKING TO UNDERSTAND WHAT THEY ARE, WHICH OILS BLEND WELL TOGETHER, AND WHAT PART OF THE BODY THEY MAY COMPLIMENT.

MY best suggestion for beginners in soap making is to learn about essential oils and how they are so beneficial to your body before you start making soaps. Are they safe for children, how much oil should I use in my soapmaking, these and many more questions will be answered once you get to know about oils. Get a copy of one of the books below from Amazon, they are good reading.

Soap is an anionic surfactant used in conjunction with water for washing and cleaning, which historically comes either in solid bars or in the form of a viscous liquid.

Soap consists of sodium or potassium salts of fatty acids and is obtained by reacting common oils or fats with a strong alkaline solution (the base, popularly referred to as lye) in a process known as saponification. The fats are hydrolyzed by the base, yielding alkali salts of fatty acids (crude soap) and glycerol.

Today, soap is often replaced by other cleaning agents, such as synthetic detergents.

read the rest of the Wikipedia article

Essential oils

Aromatherapy Massage: Essential oils explained for health and pleasure

by: Margie Hare

Amazon Price: (as of 01/07/2010)

Learn the difference between carrier, essential, and fragrance oils

Australian Tea Tree Oil Handbook: 101 Plus Ways To Use Tea Tree

by: Cynthia Olsen

Amazon Price: $6.95 (as of 01/07/2010)

Tea Tree Oil: The Natural Antiseptic

by: Dr. Cass Ingram

Amazon Price: $11.86 (as of 01/07/2010)

FOR MORE RECIPES AND GOOD INFORMATION ;http//squidoo.com/thehandcrafterscompanion B2B Marketplace

Reviewing the Handcrafters Companion

2009-11-04T09:30:00.000-08:00

I finally decided to make a special post just about the Handcrafters Companion. I must say that all-in-all it is a good product. The best part is that you can get a discount for your purchase right from Jane Church just by becoming a member of her email list and reading the posts she gives. A lot of the ebook explains how to package and promote your product but if you are just looking for how-to information, the book is great for recipes that are interchangeable. There are also some good links to buy the products.

My favorite ingredient to use is tea tree oil and there are some good recipes for that as well so of course the e-book is a hit with me.

Here is a sneak preview of my Squidoo Lense with the full review of the product.

I thought people would enjoy an actual review of the Handcrafters Companion to see why they SHOULD get one.

So far all of the web pages I have visited say "review of the handcrafters companion" and all you get is a link to buy it.

Well, I don't have time to visit every page on the internet and maybe someone actually has a review, but, here is mine.

First of all, Jane Church is the real spa-product queen as she has proven in her handcrafters companion, spa-products is just my squidoo name for my soapmaking stuff, as I am not an expert or anything. I just like to make home made soaps and stuff and recommend things from time to time when I find something interesting, I share it.

NOW FOR SOME REVIEW !!! P.S. JUST BY JOINING THE FREE COURSE OFFERED BY JANE CHURCH, YOU CAN PURCHASE THE HANDCRAFTERS COMPANION AT A SALE PRICE - JUST WAIT FOR AN OCCATIONAL SALE SENT TO YOUR INBOX VIA THE EMAIL ADDRESS YOU SENT WHEN YOU JOINED THE E-COURSE. I GOT MINE FOR $10 OFF - ALTHOUGH - THE HC IS WORTH EVERY PENNY AT FULL PRICE!!!

http://mentor51.results10.hop.clickbank.net

The simple thing to remember about the HC is that it does contain lots of information for turning your favorite hobby or craft if you will into a profitable business if that is your goal, or you can just use the HC for the fantastic recipes that can be used for more than just one product just by adding or eliminating some of the ingredients.

The Handcrafters Companion spa experience

The first thing you will see is getting started - ingredients and tools needed

The next thing you need to know is keeping it clean

The HC explains essential and fragrance oil safety, what not to use if you have high blood pressure, also what to avoid if you are pregnant, and has some kids recipes too. Some recipes don't have necessary precautions- the list is quite impressive.

My Favorite - handcrafted soaps

These recipes surprised my - I never thought of using wine in my recipe until I saw Janes recipes. Comes complete with a list of websites to purchase the ingredients and has variations to use. Like I said, the ingredients in the other recipes can be use for soap making as well - just use your imagination - I know you can !!!!

Other goodies you will find

1. Maya Gale Herbal Spa Clay Mask
2. Tropical Relaxation Bath Oil
3. Orange Spearmint Bath Oil
4. Bay Rum Spa Treatment
5. Spray Bath Oil
6. Spa Herbal Body Wrap
7. Peaches and Cream Mineral Blush

For the full post visit my squidoo lense:

About the Handcrafters Companion



If you need a marketing plan - I use :

One Week Marketing Plan

It gets you on page one of Google with constant free tips and free ebooks.



Till next time !!!

Soap Making and How Much Oil to Use

2009-09-19T07:12:00.000-07:00

The best thing I can say about oils in soap making is - STUDY OILS.

For handmilled soaps - 10 to 20 drops of essential oils is the usual amount for approximately
1 cup of soap mixture. You just have to experiment. The main scent will probably use
about 10 drops, then the complimentary oils will be 5 and 5 drops. When you study oils , you
will get to know the basics of blending oils and what compliments each other. Then you can invent your own mixture.

For other soap mixtures, there is no rule for the most part. You just have to pick the oils you would like to blend and try a few drops of each until the desired scent is achieved.

In the beginning, over scent your mix as some of the scent will evaporate over time. Trial and error will be your best education in the beginning.

For melt and pour, use the same approximate oil mixture as in hand milled. When you use a colorant for your soap mix from a craft store, make sure the color is non-bleeding as cheap colors will bleed and make your soap look tye-died. Non-bleeding should be listed on the package.

Get to know your skin type and choose your ingredients accordingly.

Cocoa butter is a skin emollient and may be used on sensitive skin.

Borax is a water softener and a whitener and may be too harsh for some skin although it
is used in cosmetics.

Buttermilk and goats milk soaps are usually a good choice for sensitive skin.

Soap made with real vegetables can be great for gifts as they make interesting soaps as well as adding a photo to a soap can also be fun.

Essential oils

Aromatherapy Massage: Essential oils explained for health and pleasure

by: Margie Hare

Amazon Price: (as of 09/19/2009)

MASSAGE OIL BAR RECIPE ::

1/2 cup melted cocoa butter

8 or 10 capsules vitamin E oil (breaking open capsules is less expensive than oil)

3/4 tbsp melted coconut oil

8 drops rose oil

5 drops ylang-ylang oil

5 drops peppermint oil

2 drops lemon oil

Mix all oils, cool slightly before pouring into mold, harden and use. This soap melts

easily when rubbed on the skin as cocoa butter and coconut oil melt quickly at

skin temperature.

ENJOY !!!

Free E-Course by Jane Church



For some of my other recipes - visit:

deb's soap and spa recipes


LAST BUT NOT LEAST, DON'T FORGET TO GET YOUR COPY OF
THE HANDCRAFTERS COMPANION
AFTER YOU FINISH JANES FREE E COURSE.
IT CONTAINS OVER 126 RECIPES WITH STEP BY
STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

THE HANDCRAFTERS COMPANION

Soap Making Marketing Plan

2009-08-26T06:18:00.000-07:00

One thing that is very difficult to get through online is not just your niche but marketing your niche. My soapmaking is just one of a few niches I market but in the beginning of my attempts online, I didn't know where to link to, where to feed my url and so on.

Now that I found potpiegirl and her one
week marketing plan, making better web pages is real easy.
You get to see the first 18 pages
free, and once you do that is it, you must buy the entire
plan. Being online is not easy and requires a lot of time
writing articles, making blog posts, Squidoo lenses,
promoting products but you have to know
where to promote them at.

Now people find my soapmaking lenses and articles
every day. I am on page one of Google and it is
so great to get visitors every day. I am working
on more domain names for every thing but I
work full time away from home so time is limited.
I have found that domain names gives your pages
more page rank so people find you better.

I use ::

Along with :

My one week marketing plan

Now my soapmaking gets visits every day. This marketing plan
is perfect for anything you would like to promote. It has
mind maps, check lists, and a daily plan for you to follow.
Before you know it, you are on
page ONE!! YIPPPEEE!!!

Now for my soap making, I use my domain name and my marketing
plan to teach people about making their own soaps at home.
I recommend getting a good book for that and you can find
that on any one of my Squidoo Lenses, I have seven
of them which have a little bit of different information
of each of them.

You can see some of my recipes for bar soap, shampoo,
handcream, etc at:

http://squidoo.com/simplesoapmakingathome

For 126 step by step recipes I recommend you purchase:

The Handcrafters Companion

Six simple and natural soap making recipes for learning how to make soap and spa recipes at home

In these busy times where both parents work just to make ends meet, why not detox and relax when you get home. First, download your copy of the handcrafters companion for some great recipes and easy to follow ideas to make your soapmaking a success.

Handcrafters Companion has 3 bonuses and a FREE ORANGE BODY SCRUB RECIPE with your purchase. Included are over 126 step by step recipes.

FREE SOAPMAKING REPORT

My new article at Go Articles

MAKING YOUR OWN SOAP MAKING SITE ? GET A GOOD MARKETING PLAN
one week marketing plan

I started making my own soaps and spa products when my son became allergic to our dog at the age of 14. That was when I started learning natural soap recipes by learning how to make organic soap .
.

You can find all the products you need on-line or at your nearest craft store.
Essential oils can be expensive so it's best to shop around for the best prices in your area. Essential oils can be purchased full strength or blended with other ingredients called callled carrier oils. Check labels carefully to make sure the oils will compliment your recipes. Then you just start creating. LOOK BELOW FOR A GOOD BOOK ABOUT ESSENTIAL OILS FROM AMAZON.

ALEC WHITEHOUSE HAS A 20 MINUTE VIDEO AND THE BEST "HOW TO" INSTRUCTIONS I HAVE EVER SEEN - EVEN PEOPLE WITH NO EXPERIENCE WHAT SO EVER CAN START MAKING SOAP.

soap making fun

Twitter Updates

follow me on Twitter

Ever hear of Qassia ?? Qassia is a place where you can write intel ( an article about your passions). My very favorite ingredient for soap making and spa products is tea tree oil and you can see my article on soap making with tea tree oil and see how an article on Qassia should look. Once you submit an article, and it gets visited by 12 people, then it gets published right to the Google search engine.

Here is my newest article: Homemade Soaps-How Do You Find a Good Site

Natural Soap Making

The Natural Soap Book: Making Herbal and Vegetable-Based Soaps

by: Susan Miller Cavitch

Amazon Price: $10.17 (as of 08/26/2009)

Making Natural Liquid Soaps: Herbal Shower Gels / Conditioning Shampoos / Moisturizing Hand Soaps

by: Catherine Failor

Amazon Price: $10.17 (as of 08/26/2009)

Milk-Based Soaps: Making Natural, Skin-Nourishing Soap

by: Casey Makela

Amazon Price: $10.36 (as of 08/26/2009)

Here's my favorite link:

Relax - Let Go and ENJOY !!!

Great Stuff on Amazon

The Tea Tree Oil Bible: Your Essential Guide for Health and Home Uses/Your First Aid Kit in a Bottle

by: Elvis Ali, George Grant, Selim, M.D. Nakla, Don Patel, Ken Vegotsky

Amazon Price: (as of 08/26/2009)

Australian Tea Tree Oil Handbook: 101 Plus Ways To Use Tea Tree

by: Cynthia Olsen

Amazon Price: $6.95 (as of 08/26/2009)

Australian Tea Tree Oil Guide

by: Cynthia Olsen

Amazon Price: $9.95 (as of 08/26/2009)

# 1 Easiest melt and mold soap making

8 oz of melt and pour chunks
8 drops of honeysuckle essential oil
4 drops of clarysage essential oil
4 drops of mango essential oil
1 tsp of coconut oil
1 tsp of ground oatmeal

melt chunks and add oils
add oatmeal
pour into mold

#2 Make your own organic shampoo

add 4-6 drops of essential oil to unscented shampoo

For normal hair use : lavender, chamomile, or geranium

For dry hair: use rosemary or ylang ylang

For dandruff problems: try juniper or tea tree oils

And for Greasy lank hair : eucalyptus and citris oils

Remember to mix essential oils before using as they can be irritating to some skin types if used full strength.

#3 Essential oil skin tonics for the face and neck

Use glass bottles and store in a dark place like a cabinet or drawer as some oils are light sensitive. Also do not use on babies or young children as essential oils are strong. . Do not use near the eyes.

For dry skin: summer rose toner

1 1/2 oz fresh rose petals ( buy at local health store)
1 1/2 cups boiling water
1 tbsp cider vinegar
Put rose petals into heat proof bowl, pour boiling water over petals, add cider vinegar -

LET STEEP AND REMOVE LEAVES - THEN USE AFTER COOLING

#4 Comfrey and rose water mask

For summer dry skin

Mix ingredients to make a smooth paste and apply evenly to face and neck around the eyes ( not too close) and let dry for about 10 minutes, rinse and use your tonic. Excellent refresher for getting ready for just about any occasion - the beach, a summer BBQ or whatever. Apply make-up gently after.

6 comfrey leaves
2 tbsp fine ground oatmeal
1 egg yolk
1 tsp honey
add a little milk or plain yoguart
1 tsp rose water

Adding herbs to boiling water in a bowl and make a tent with a towel over head and shoulders makes a relaxing steam to open pores and gently remove dirt from your skin .Chamomile (dry skin), rosemary ( oily skin) lavender (normal skin), and eucalyptus is excellent for a breathing treatment.

# 5 Homemade talc

To customize your own talcum powder

Mix 5 drops of your fav scent 1 tsp of cornstarch

Mix with 5 or more tbsp of unscented talk

Men love sandlewood or other earthy scents

Women love lavender or rosemary

# 6 Rich hand cream

Hand creams are best used with freshly washed hands in warm water

Use 8 oz unscented hand cream

Add: 12 drops of chamomile essential oil
7 drops lemon essential oil
7 drops geranium essential oil

Chamomile soothes while lemon and geranium may whiten and has antiseptic properties.

With any recipe you may add or subtract whatever you wish to accomplish the desired scent that helps you relax.

Get a good book for soapmaking

2009-08-22T05:10:00.000-07:00

I see people typing in keywords for soapmaking recipes to find my sights but I don't see people buying any good books to get the recipes they are looking for. Everyone needs to study essential oils and get a good book for natural soapmaking. Then your questions will be answered. I started making soap years ago, I am NOT an expert by any means and I don't make tons of it but I have been through the good, bad and ugly mistakes because I didn't study well in the beginning.

Just go to any one of my sights and get a good book, then you can get a copy of

 126 recipes withthe handcrafters companion

soap making with tea tree oil

soap making sites


If you need a good marketing plan -
I use the one by potpiegirl -
that's how you found me on Google

one week marketing plan

Get great results with these soap making sites and ideas for making soap at home

I have put together some of my favorite soap making sites that I like and I am happy to share them with you. This a short list but it will get you started.

FREE SOAPMAKING REPORT

soap making essentials

Denises Yadda Yadda

the handcrafters companion

If you need a great marketing plan, try the best one week marketing plan

soap making sites

Tom's of Maine

CHOOSE A CATCHY DOMAIN FOR YOUR NEW SOAP MAKING SITE AT:

You can read my latest article from Ezine Articles here:

Homemade Soaps-How Do You Find a Good Site

Benefits of soap making

Basic Soap Making: All the Skills and Tools You Need to Get Started (Basics)

Amazon Price: $15.61 (as of 08/22/2009)

Essential oils explained

Essential Oils Desk Reference

Amazon Price: $39.96 (as of 08/22/2009)

natural soap making

Making Natural Liquid Soaps: Herbal Shower Gels / Conditioning Shampoos / Moisturizing Hand Soaps

by: Catherine Failor

Amazon Price: $10.17 (as of 08/22/2009)

soap making from scratch

Making Soap From Scratch - A Beginner's Guide and Beyond

by: Gregory White

Amazon Price: (as of 08/22/2009)

Soap Making can be Easy

2009-08-04T06:59:00.001-07:00

Soap making really is easy and fun, even
when you make mistakes. Most of the time you can just shave you goof up, add some water and some different oils and try again. Some of the most fun recipes I have found is at :

Denises Yadda Yadda

where you can find some of the coolest ideas ever
for soap making. I have to admit, I am now where into it as she is. She has excellent ideas for
packaging and everything.


My soap making lather-letter

My marketing plan

Another great sight to visit is Burgundy where Burgundy Shank offers a

Free Soap Making Report
and learn how to avoid mistakes.





I
didn't realize just how important it is to pamper your
entire body until i began my own soapmaking and now
that I have some great recipes,
the aroma is even more uplifting than ever. When I
came across the
beautifully balanced scent
created in the recipes in the handcrafters companion,
it taught me to further my search to learn about
essential oils and everything involved
in soapmaking at home.

I had some recipes, but the
biggest and best collection I have gotten is with
the handcrafters
companion. Most people who have visited my other
articles or my soapmaking blog, know that one
of my favorite ingredients is tea tree oil as
it is useful for acne, shampooing your pets,
household cleaning and so on.

TEA TREE OIL - MELALEUCA ALTERNIFOLIA
best used as an antiseptic - may irritate
sensitive skin and blends
well with
eucalyptus, rosemary and lavender.

BY THE WAY - HERE IS MY FAVORITE TEA TREE OIL RECIPE:

I use it as a breathing treatment as well in bar soaps

make your favorite soap base then:

MY TEA TREE OIL RECIPE :

add 10 drops clary sage essential oil
8 drops tea tree oil
1 tsp ground adzuki beans (go planet earth )
1 tsp ground oatmeal

As a breathing treatment,
I add 6 drops tea tree oil and some eucalyptus leaves to a
bowl of boiling water, cover my head with a towel to make
a tent. and breathe
deeply. Cleans your pours as well as helps your lungs.

Newbies wanted

Need recipes

If you don't have 126 recipes yet, you can

get the handcrafters companion

Give it a try - you won't be sorry !!

people love to hear your stories

Using the Handcrafters Companion for Soapmaking

2009-07-11T08:23:00.000-07:00

Learning how to make soap at home can have it's quirks just like any other new hobby but once you learn, it can be really fun. I like using

the handcrafters companion

so I have my recipes, tips and everything in one spot.

Learn how to make soap at home with the Handcrafters Companion

Imagine having all the information you need for soapmaking in one spot. Learn how much oil to use, how to avoid mistakes, and get over 100 recipes right in one guide.

Download 126 recipes

My best suggestion for beginners in soap making is to learn about essential oils and how they are so beneficial to your body before you start making soaps. Are they safe for children, how much oil should I use in my soapmaking, these and many more questions will be answered once you get to know about oils. Get a copy of one of the books below from Amazon, they are good reading.

RIGHT NOW FOR A LIMITED TIME, JON AT soap making fun IS OFFERING HIS SOAP MAKING VIDEO AND BUSINESS GUIDE PACKAGE FOR 50% OFF - HE IS CELEBRATING HIS 3RD ANNIVERSARY SO DON'T MISS OUT.

Get 126 recipes from expert Jane Church when you buy The handcrafters companion
THE HANDCRAFTERS COMPANION COMES WITH OVER 126 STEP BY STEP RECIPES AND A FREE ORANGE BODY SCRUB RECIPE WITH YOUR DOWNLOAD. YOU WILL ALSO GET 3 MORE BONUSES:

IF YOU NEED A DAILY PLAN TO FOLLOW FOR MARKETING ANY OF YOUR NICHES, I USE one week marketing plan

Free Report

Here's my favorite link:

Get your handcrafters companion here

Here's my favorite link:

Get your handcrafters companion here

Essential oils

Essential Oils Desk Reference

Amazon Price: $39.96 (as of 07/11/2009)

The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy: Over 600 Natural, Non-Toxic and Fragrant Recipes to Create Health - Beauty - a Safe Home Environment

by: Valerie Ann Worwood

Amazon Price: $13.57 (as of 07/11/2009)

Quick Reference Guide for Using Essential Oils 11th Edition November 2008

by: Connie and Alan Higley

Amazon Price: (as of 07/11/2009)

Soap Making and Making Soap at Home: If you would like to turn your home into an oasis - just learn how to make your own spa quality products in the comfort of your home. Once you download your copy of The Handcrafters Companion for only $27, you can learn how to make aromatherapy blend...
Soap Making Sites for Making Soap at Home: After you download the handcrafters companion , making soaps and spa products is easy. This guide will give you all the tips and tricks you need. The handcrafters companion comes complete with over 126 step by step recipes, 3 FREE bonuses and a FREE...
Simple Soap Making and Soap Making Recipes: In these busy times where both parents work just to make ends meet, why not detox and relax when you get home. First, download your copy of the handcrafters companion for some great recipes and easy to follow ideas to make your soapmaking a success....

If you have children, make sure the recipe is specified just for kids

Purchase a book from Amazon on kids soap making at the bottom of this page !!

Essential oils can be harsh on young skin so be sure to research a little on what is safe for kids. Make sure the recipe is good for the age of the children you are planing to make soap for. We want our young one to stay cute - just like they are so be gentle.

Crayon Soap - for kids of all ages - ALWAYS WITH PARENTAL SUPERVISION

You will need : 1 ice cube tray or crayon shaped soap mold
1 cup of snow flakes (from craft store), or shave an unscented bar of vegetable soap
food coloring of your choice, add until desired color
2 or more tbsp. hot water

In a small cup or bowl:

Mix hot water with snow flakes, add color, stir until dissolved, pour into ice cube tray. Let harden for about 2 hours or until completely cool. THEN ENJOY !!!

P.S. Please do not eat !!!

Visit go planet earth for some really fun ideas for kids, holidays - everyone !

Making soap at home is easy

Making your own soaps and spa products is worth the time

You can start out with a kit, or you can surf for a place for easy soap making instructions. The rest is up to you to BE SAFE, and most of all HAVE FUN, try the Best Bath Store for some cool ideas.

What are your favorite recipes

Share your best recipe with the world

Do you have some recipes or even bloopers you can share to help others just getting started - let the world know. You feed back is very important so tell us what you found.

coldwind

I have bought the handcrafters companion, its a good product overall, you can read
my review here =>> http://mypsreview.com/2009/07/the-hand-crafters-companion-review/

Posted July 11, 2009

spa-products wrote...

in reply to Shaun Hi Shaun,

Good job with soap making - it is so fun !!! Just a quick note, one of the best ingredients I found for my soaps lately is called ADZUKI BEAN, you grind them up (tsp full) and add to your soap. I use them in melt and pour goats milk base and also add ground oatmeal, add your fav essential oils and makes your skin so soft. Adzuki Bean is know to help your skin retain moisture.

Keep soap making ladies

Deb

Posted June 25, 2009

Lensmaster

Shaun wrote

I am fairly new to the art of soap making but have made quite a few Glycerin soap base soaps, especialy colorful ones with added frangrances like vanilla or lavender.

I have gathered a few recipes and posted it to my blog, they are very basic but as I become more advanced so will my recipes become more complex!

Keep soap making and have fun

spa products

Beneficial tea tree oil for soap making

2009-05-06T06:30:00.000-07:00

I never thought that discovering one little essential oil could turn out to be so beneficial but tea tree oil is off the charts with me. I have just been added to the awesome website tea tree wonders.com which has some of the best information and recipes using tea tree oil I have ever seen. You can read my new blog post on the sight by Debra Tollefson - I have shared one of my favorite stories. Never has one product brought so many people such great
results.

tea tree oil

You can read the full story

tea tree oil heals naturally


Well, I have just finished another article over at squidoo,
which is my favorite place to write to tell you about my favorite things.

Visit all my lenses at squidoo:

soap making with tea tree oil


The Handcrafters Companion

Soap making recipes

making soap at home

Soap making sites

soap making



OTHER ARTICLES RELATED TO THIS BLOG POST ;


 
Luxurious Homemade Soaps


If you like crafting of any kind I recommend you join



Visit twitter moms: the influential moms network

Soap Making - If You Only Knew

2009-05-01T08:00:00.000-07:00

Soap making - If I had only known about
this site, I would have visited it sooner.
Wow !!!

I will regularly be posting about
new sites I have visited for you
to explore. I love trying new
sites and letting you know about
them . Enjoy !!!

First you need to
get your copy of





The Handcrafters Companion
and then you can visit .
soap making essentials


Need a unique gift idea - learn how to put a
photo on your soaps : Photos for your soaps


MY FAVORITE INGREDIENT TO USE IN SOAPS AND SPA PRODUCTS
IS 


tea tree oil

and my story was just published on teatreewonders.com

There you have it. Your own personal
guide about soap making in one spot,
and a map to one of the best sites
I can recommend.

Both are fantastic. Soap making essentials has a place for you
to advertise your craft site, no matter what it is. It also has a
super blog, lots of links to other crafters, GREAT INFO FOR
NEWBIES AND OTHERS TO LEARN ABOUT
WHY SOAP MAKING IS SO GREAT !! At the end of this blog post -
please share your link to your craft site as long as it is in good taste.
I have a friend who loves to make jewelry, maybe you like
scrapbooking, or just about any craft is great.

So please - share !!!

I have written some great articles about my favorite
things and I am always looking for new things
to write about.

Visit my articles here :

Ezine articles about soap making



For the new people who don't know me very well, my
favorite ingredient to use in my crafting for soaps
and spa products is
tea tree oil,
I started using tea tree oil because
tea tree oil
has some pretty potent healing potential. I discovered
tea tree oil years ago when I started soap making,
but I really  began to like it a couple of years ago
when I cut my foot on vacation. After my vacation,
I was at a medieval festival in town and
bought some healing salve from a vendor and used it,
my foot practically healed overnight.  Tea tree oil
stinks sort of, but it works !!!


By the way, if you have some crafts you would like to write
about, you can join Qassia for a one time $5 membership
fee (going rate - may change ) and when 12 people visit
your article, it gets published and goes straight to
the search engines.




 My other sites to visit, with more links and sites
to visit,plus great ideas to promote your business
One Week Marketing Plan

 I use this marketing plan for all my niches I have and the one
I will start real soon.


If you haven't gotten your copy of the handcrafters companion,

get it here:

The Handcrafters Companion

Get another free report from simple soapmaking so you
don't botch your batch

Free Report

If you like videos then have some
soap making fun 


I am also a member of these awesome places to socalize with
fellow crafters and moms who have home-based businesses.





Visit twitter moms: the influential moms network

SO WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR - TELL THE WORLD WHAT
YOUR CRAFT IS - JOIN US NOW

Soap Making- The Benefits of Your Own Soap

2009-04-27T11:18:00.000-07:00

What are the benefits of making your own soap??

Well - lots of things -they are all natural,
made by YOU !!! They don't contain some
of the toxic chemicals contained in store bought
soaps, and you get to choose the aroma, the price,
any just about everything !!!

Does it get better than that ???

First - pick up your copy of

The Handcrafters Companion


Then you can get some really great recipes from my
squidoo lenses at :

the handcrafters companion

Simple Soapmaking

Soap making recipes


By the way, my favorite ingredient of all time is :

tea tree oil


Bonus :: For a one time fee of $5 you can join
Qassia and get your articles sent right to the
search engines - cool huh ???






What is the alternative ??


MAKE YOUR OWN SOAPS AND OTHER PRODUCTS



Antibacterial soaps contain a toxic
chemical called Triclosan

You can read about it at:


Triclosan Just type triclosan into the search bar
for some great articles. 


That is why commercial soaps are called
"beauty bars", in some instances they cannot
legally call them soaps
because they are really a detergent bar.


You can get started making your own soap at
home by watching this video :

soap making fun video



You can read my Ezine articles at:


 My Ezine Articles about soap making

Soap Making - How You Make Your Own Laundry Soap

2009-04-22T08:25:00.000-07:00

Visit twitter moms: the influential moms network

SquidRank Lens Directory

First visit the

soap making fun video 

I WOULD LIKE TO THANK EVERYONE INVOLVED IN THE SOAP MAKING
BUSINESS AND FOR ALL THE GREAT RECIPES WE HAVE ALL PUT OUT
THERE TO SHARE WITH EACH OTHER !!!!  TOGETHER
WE HAVE PUT SOME AWESOME TALENT INTO OUR PROJECTS !!!

LADIES - KEEP COOKING !!!!

I never knew how much money you can save by making your own laundry soap.
You can decide how much you want to make and adjust the recipe yourself but
the recipe is still the same. Here it is ::

1 quart boiling water
1 cup grated bar soap ( home made of course)
1 1/2 cups of borax (avoids dingy clothes in hard water)
2 cups washing soda ( available at grocery store)
5 to 10 drops of essential oil ( you decide strength)

I use an empty container from a store bought brand.
Already has a pour spout.

***Some people use grated ivory soap, or fels naptha which is
great for stain removal. ***

You can visit my ezine articles at:

Luxurious Homemade Soaps



I also have some squidoo lenses with more recipes
and great ideas:


The Handcrafters Companion


Soap Making

make soap at home

soap making at home

soap making recipes

If you like Ezine Articles:

Soap Making Articles

Homemade soaps - I Found A Good Site

2009-04-09T13:39:00.000-07:00

Well, the fun never stops, I found a good sight called :

soap making fun


It is the best newbie sight
for beginnining soap making.











You should visit this sight just because it is so easy to
use and  beginners can learn step-by-step "how to" make
soap. There are many sites out there but this one is
the most user friendly I have found.

I just made a new squidoo lense, you can check them all out at:

soap making recipes

soap making at home

making soap at home

Soap Making

Soap Making








Don't forget to get your copy of  
The Handcrafters Companion
it is a very useful thing to have, I wish I had one
when I got started.

I will let you know when my new Ezine Article :
How Do You Find a Good Site comes out but for now it is
pending. I have been writing all day so this blog post
will be brief as I need to get some other things done
before I burn up my computer lol !!!

So, if you haven't read any Free Report
your can read this one. It will tell you the things you
can avoid to ruin a batch of soap.  My first soaps
were terrible, but I learned. So will you.

In the end, you will be able to laugh at your beginning
projects and say, wow,I used to do that and then I
learned better. It is difficult to teach a new person
when you get good at something because you are advanced
now so you forget to tell them the little stuff. Things
come naturally to you so you give directions like the
person knows what they are doing when in reality
they don't.


So, its like I said, this blog post is really short and I apologize
for that but I just had to brag about the new sight I found and let
you know that my new article will be coming out soon.


Cheers !!

dtoll



 
Luxurious Homemade Soaps

Natural Home-made soaps

2009-04-01T08:05:00.000-07:00

Isn't is great that our ancient ancestors began the process of

Soap Making

with animal fats and dried herbs and we still enjoy that process today - even in these busy times. While transparent soaps began in the 1700's, the first soaps were made before then. Then in the 1920's people all over the world began obtaining patents for their products. The most famous was Pears.

Even now there are many web sights to choose from for beginners
to advanced soap-makers.

It is very easy to get started, just get a copy of :
Handcrafters Companion

and get tips and tricks on how to get started,
find your perfect recipe, put on your safety
equipment and there you go.  JUST ONE
WORD OF CAUTION : ESSENTIAL OILS ARE CONCENTRATED
SO MIX WITH ANOTHER OIL BEFORE PUTTING ON YOUR
SKIN.STRAIGHT ESSENTIAL OIL CAN BE IRRITATING
IF USED FULL STRENGTH.

ALEC WHITEHOUSE HAS A 20 MINUTE VIDEO AND THE BEST
STEP-BY-STEP TRAINING FOR NEWBIES I HAVE EVER SEEN.

HE CAN EXPLAIN "HOW TO" BETTER THAN I CAN:
soap making fun



I also have an expert authors article posted at
Ezine Articles worth reading.



I learned to promote my homemade soapmaking from the best
marketer on the internet- Potpiegirl with her
One Week Marketing Plan, so if you have products
you want to promote, I strongly suggest you use this plan.
It gives you a PEAK AT THE FIRST 18 PAGES FREE.  Once I saw
the first 18 pages, I knew that was the best day-by-day
program for promoting what ever I needed to promote.
Marketing your products is difficult but OWM will show you
what to do each day,where to submit your articles, blogs,
and how to do keyword research.  When you
become a OWM owner, Jennifer will send you a free
ebook on keyword research, Squidoo lense 101 guide (free)
and give you great new suggestions on "how to" make a
successful campaign.


Now, back to soapmaking.  There are kits available for
you to buy so beginners can get everything they need
to get started in pre-measured amounts for the base
of the soap,oils to be used, utensils, a thermometer
etc...
They are inexpensive and the best  way to go.
I didn't have a kit so my first soaps were O.k.
but need improvement. Luckily I found the
handcrafters companion and got more
tips from Simple Soapmaking that comes with a free
report
on the  mistakes that can ruin a batch of soap.

Just do some research on the lingo for soapmaking to learn
what saponification means, tracing, essential oils,
fragrance oils, herbs, colorants, and all the things you
need to make your best batch of soap. Make sure you use
safety equipment.

Another favorite place of mine to submit an article to that
goes straight to the search engines is Qassia.  For $5 one
time registration fee you can write intel (intel is an
article about what you promote),and have people visit
your sight. Links are not allowed in the article body just
like Ezine Articles but you can link to your sight at the
end of your post. After 12 people visit your article,
it becomes published in the search engines and it gives
you another quality backlink to your sight.
Just go to Qassia and join, create your profile with your
pic, write intel, submit, and you have another great place
to promote your soap and spa products.




Here is the link to my Qassia Natural Products Article:
http://qassia.com/tea-tree-oil-heals-naturally


At Zimbio, they treat a Squidoo lense like a blog so you
can submit there too.




You can visit my Squidoo lenses at:

The Handcrafters Companion

soap making

make soap at home

soap making at home

Soap making recipes







What I did in the beginning of soap making was get
some simple recipes for melt and pour recipes,
they are easy and you can use
the soap in a few hours if you wish. You don't
have to wait for them to cure forever. I am impatient
sometimes so instant results are good !!!

Soapmaking is fun, easy and can turn into the best
thing for your health because you have full control
of what you put on your skin, in your hair, on your
face and body. I like being in control of what
I use so I don't purchase bar soap  from the
store anymore. I love the aroma of my own soaps
so stuff in the store just doesn't compare.

My squidoo lense simple soap making at home as a
small few of my favorite recipes. I have many
more I now use.

Benefits of soap making at home :

1.  YOU CONTROL THE INGREDIENTS - MAKING THEM MORE
NATURAL AND     SAFE TO USE

2.  YOU CREATE YOUR OWN UNIQUE BLEND

3.  YOU CONTROL WHAT YOU WANT TO SPEND

4.  THE RECIPE IS PERFECT - YOU MADE IT !!!

Disadvantages:
1. YOU SPEND TIME FINDING THAT PERFECT RECIPE
THAT DOESN'T ALWAYS COME OUT PERFECT.



 
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