There are many steps in creating soap. The first challenge I face is figuring out what scent I want in my soap. This to me is one of the hardest parts. There are so many different scents that I like. The next one is to weight and measure all my ingredients. This does take a little bit of time as it needs to be done carefully. A mistake of an ounce could make my soap not come out right. The I begin the process of mixing the sodium hydroxide to the distilled water. While that is cooling down next is melting and mixing the oils. While this is happening, I can find the colors to add in. Once I have done that the process of blending the lye water and oils together begins. I do have to be careful not to overmix it. Once it is emulsified, I can divide the batter into different containers to mix the colors in. Then the real fun begins. I have to bring the colors to light trace in the correct order so that I can achieve the design/results I want. That is when I can start pouring the batter into the mold. Once this is done it is time to wrap the mold to insulate it for at least 24 hours. Once I uncover the mold and take the soap out, I can usually cut it into bars. This is the point where I can see if the design is what I was aiming for. Sometimes it is a complete surprise. So far, those surprises are good ones. Then the waiting begins. The soap then needs to cure for 4 - 6 weeks. The longer the bars cure the better. After the 4-6 weeks of curing time the bars are ready. Yes, I do sample one of every scent I created. I do not sell products that I would not use.
A note regarding the scents I use. As with my lotion I only use essential oils. Also, as with the lotion there isn't a strong scent.
This is the same process use for shampoo bars.
If you have any suggestions on scents/essential oils to use, please sent me an email and I will try to use it.