If you want to add a personal touch to your gift-giving, one
of the easier DIY ideas is to melt and pour soap. Not only is it easy, but it
is also an affordable option that can even become a side hustle.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
Materials Needed
·
Melt and pour soap base (clear or white
glycerin, shea butter, goat’s milk, etc.)
·
Soap molds (silicone molds work best)
·
Fragrance oil or essential oils (lavender,
peppermint, citrus, etc.)
·
Colorants (mica powders, soap dyes, or natural
ingredients like turmeric or cocoa powder)
·
Mix-ins (dried flowers, herbs, exfoliants like
oatmeal, coffee grounds, or poppy seeds)
·
Alcohol spray (to reduce bubbles)
·
Microwave-safe bowl or double boiler
·
Wooden skewer or spoon (for stirring)
·
Knife or soap cutter (if using a large soap
block)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cut and Melt the Soap Base
·
Chop the melt and pour the soap base into small
chunks.
·
Place the chunks into a microwave-safe bowl.
·
Microwave in 15-30 second intervals, stirring in
between, until fully melted. Alternatively, use a double boiler to melt it
slowly.
2. Add Fragrance and Colour
·
Once melted, add 5-10 drops of essential oil per 113g of soap base.
·
Stir in a small amount of colourant until evenly
mixed.
3. Customize with Add-Ins
·
Add dried flowers, exfoliants, or other mix-ins.
·
Stir gently to distribute evenly.
4. Pour into Molds
·
Carefully pour the melted soap into the mold
·
Lightly spray the top with rubbing alcohol to
remove bubbles.
5. Let the Soap Set
·
Allow the soap to cool and harden at room
temperature for 2-4 hours.
·
Once solid, gently remove from the mold.
6. Store and Use
·
Wrap the soap in plastic wrap to prevent
sweating (glycerin soaps attract moisture).
·
Store in a dry place and enjoy or give as a
gift.
Optional Additions
- Layered Soap: Pour different colored layers, letting each layer set slightly before adding the next.
- Swirl Designs: Use a skewer to create swirls with different colors.
- Embedded Objects: Place small toys, loofah, or flower petals inside before pouring.
There are many DIY supply stores around; one or two that I
have used include ‘Fun with Soap’ and ‘The Soap Barn.’ However, check to see if
there isn’t a supplier located closer to where you live. You can also try out
the soap-making kit from Just Bliss.
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