If you’re an aspiring soap-maker, then the melt-and-pour technique is a good way to get started. It’s simple and you (almost) can’t go wrong with it. Usually, artisans start with this method before moving on to cold process soap making.
It's easy to put together.
This method uses pre-made soap bases that are melted and customized according to the desired outcome. You can add fragrances, colorants, and exfoliants, then pour the mixture into a mold to create soap bars. It's very beginner-friendly.
What you'll need:
- Soap base
- Fragrance oil
- Colorants (optional)
- Molds
- Heat-proof container
- Silicone spatula
- Rubbing alcohol
- Cutter
Prepare your workspace and supplies.
To avoid cross-contamination, sanitize your workspace. You can spray the area with rubbing alcohol and wipe it dry with a clean towel. Wash and dry your containers, spatula, and molds. Everything should be completely dry.
- Using the cutter, cut your soap base into small pieces. Doing this makes it easy to melt the base evenly.
- In a heat-proof container, melt the base in a double boiler or microwave. Stir gently to break up clumps. If needed, heat the base in 30-second intervals.
- If the soap starts to foam, that means it's too hot. Remove it from the microwave and stir to continue melting.
- Once you have melted your soap base, remove it from the heat and add your oil, colorants, or fragrance. Gradually add these until you achieve your desired results. Stir gently. Time is of the essence here. Your choice of additives may accelerate the setting time of your soap, so work quickly.
- While the melted solution is still warm, pour your mixture into the mold. If you plan to create a layered soap, allow each layer to sit and cool down to harden before making the next layer and pouring it in.
- To remove air bubbles and ensure optimal adhesion between layers, lightly spritz rubbing alcohol onto the poured soap surface.
Allow your soap bars to cool and harden completely in the mold. It might take longer if you have thicker soap bars. Remove the bars from the molds and trim any rough edges if necessary.
That’s it! You have a soap bar of your own.
