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Handmade soaps are becoming a preferred choice of skin-care experts and users around the globe as they are away from harsh chemicals and fillers, unlike commercial soaps. Moreover, homemade soaps are carefully crafted in small batches that help in maintaining the quality and therapeutic benefits of soap.
When it comes to making handmade soaps, melt-and-pour soap base offers a convenient and beginner-friendly option for soap-making. This versatile method offers numerous benefits and allows soap makers to unleash creativity without the need to handle lye and the complex process of machine-based soap making.
If you are new to handmade soap making or prefer a simpler method, using Vedanum ultra-premium melt and pour soap base is an excellent option. Our soap bases also allow you to customize your soap creations without the need for any commercial equipment and chemical ingredients.
This detailed guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of making handmade soap using Vedanum melt and pour soap base and soap-making raw material.
Here Are The Top Steps To Create Handmade Soap Making
Step1: Gather Your Supplies
To get started, gather the following supplies:
Vedanum melt and pour soap base
Sturdy soap mold(s) of choice and shape
Vedanum organic plant essential oils and soap-making fragrance oils
Skin-safe liquid colorants or water-soluble dyes
Natural sun-dried additives
Heat-resistant container or double boiler
Microwave or stovetop for melting
Heat-safe spoon or wooden spatula
Rubbing alcohol (in a spray bottle) [Optional]
Plastic wrap or parchment paper
Kitchen scale and damp clothes for cleaning
Step 2: Select Your Soap Base
Choose a melt-and-pour soap base that suits your preferences and skin needs. Glycerin soap bases are popular for their clarity and moisturizing properties, while options like shea butter or goat milk soap bases provide additional nourishment for the skin. A transparent soap base also provides the flexibility to play around with vibrant colors.
Step 3: Get Your Workspace Ready
Soap-making requires a clear and clutter-free space. You can cover your workspace or kitchen floor with plastic wrap or parchment paper to protect it from any spills. Ensure all your supplies are handy before starting the soap-making process.
Step 4: Cut and Melt the Soap Base
Weigh the desired amount of soap base onto a kitchen scale as per mold cavity and the size of soap you wish to make. Using a sharp knife, cut the Vedanum melt & pour the soap base into small cubes of 1 inch or small chunks for easier and faster melting. Put the soap base pieces into a heat-resistant container or double boiler. If using a microwave, heat the soap base in short intervals of 60 seconds, stirring in between each interval until fully melted. If using a stovetop, melt the soap base into a double boiler over low heat, stirring constantly to prevent over-boiling.
Pro Tip: Never boil the soap base while melting, as it may evaporate fatty acids and other essential ingredients. It is recommended to melt the soap base with continuous stirring gently.
Step 5: Add Essential Oils and Fragrance
Once the soap base is melted completely, remove it from the heat source and let it cool for 30 seconds. Add your preferred Vedanum essential oils or fragrance while gently stirring. Ensure not to exceed the recommended usage rate of 10% of the total soap base volume, as it may hamper the soap's healthy pH. For instance: to 1000 gm (1KG) of melted soap base, add 100 ml of essential oil or fragrance compound.
Pro Tip: Always prefer nonsynthetic 100% organic essential oils and alcohol-free fragrances to keep your handmade soap as natural as possible.
Step 6: Incorporate Color and Additives
Add liquid soap colors (optional) to the melted soap base and mix well to distribute the fragrance and color evenly. To generate the desired shade, start adding a few drops of color and keep checking to avoid exceeding the expected color tone. If you wish to add natural additives like dried herbs, flower petals, or exfoliants, gently fold them into the soap mixture and stir. Be mindful not to use excessive amounts, as they can affect the soap's ability to lather.
Pro Tip: Always use additives that are completely dried and might not impact the viscosity of the soap base. Do not increase the recommended usage rate of 2% of the total soap base volume.
Step 7: Pour and Set into Mould
After adding all the required ingredients, if required, the soap base mix can be melted for more than 60 seconds in the microwave or on a double boiler to ensure the soap mixture is ready to pour. Clean your chosen soap mold with a cloth or rubbing alcohol (optional). Gently pour the soap base into the mold and allow the base to set for 30 seconds under the fan/ air source. Check if any bubbles form on the surface, and spritz them with rubbing alcohol from a spray bottle to eliminate them. Tap the mold gently on a countertop to release any remaining air bubbles inside the soap base.
Pro Tip: To keep soap 100% chemical free, avoid using rubbing alcohol. Use a simple cream extraction method to remove excess cream formed at the top of the milk vessel at home.
Allow soap to cool for 60 seconds, and carefully pierce a toothpick into the upper layer of the poured soap base. Separate the upper layers from the mold edges and gently lift the waste layer with the help of the tip of a toothpick. Repeat the process for all other soaps. Contact our soap experts to learn more about this pro tip.
Step 8: Allow the Soap to Set
Let the soap cool and solidify completely in the mold. This typically takes a few hours in winter and up to half a day in summer. To speed up the process, mold can also be placed in the refrigerator after the soap base is cooled to room temperature. Once the soap is firm and fully set, gently press on the bottom of the mold to release the soap bars. If any difficulty arises, placing the molds in the freezer for a short time can help loosen the soap automatically.
Step 9: Mature and Pack Your Soaps
It is recommended to allow the handmade soap bars to mature for two days before packing to help them harden and extend their shelf life. Place the soaps in a cool, dry area with good ventilation. Once cured, you can wrap them with plastic wrap and pack them in your favorite soap box.
Final Word:
Creating handmade soaps using melt-and-pour soap base is a rewarding and enjoyable experience. With Vedanum's high-quality products and your own creativity, you can make unique and personalized soaps that are gentle on the skin and free from harsh chemicals. Start your soap-making journey today and discover the joy of crafting your own beautiful and nourishing handmade soaps.