CP Newbie

[Bubbles00]

Hello
I'm interested in all CP methods for soap making and would love to learn about 'layering' soaps (dont know if there is a proper word for the technique) and the use of essential oils and fragrances.
I'm also interested in knowing more about the CP procedure and math equation (!!) ie 'this goes in = end product
Also does soap have a 'sell by date'?
I'd love to make a lemon/citrus soap but have been told it can make the skin photosensitive? Not good in hot weather.....

I hope you all dont mind all the questions!!! (and these are only a few :shock: )!!

xxxxx

 

[Genny]

Welcome to the forum. There's a lof of info here that can probably answer most of your questions. For vidoes on basic cold processing, I suggest http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL ... ature=plcp

I'm interested in all CP methods for soap making and would love to learn about 'layering' soaps"

It matters what kind of layering you want to do. If it's just one color on top of another, you just divide your soap batter into 2 different containers, color them, pour one in. Then gently pour the next one in over the first.

I'm also interested in knowing more about the CP procedure and math equation (!!) ie 'this goes in = end product

Like calculating recipes? If so, I recommend http://www.soapcalc.net and http://millersoap.com/soapdesign.html and learning what quality each oil, butter, etc brings to soap

Also does soap have a 'sell by date'?

Not that I know of. I have some soaps that are a few years old and are good. But it matters what oils you are using and how fast they go bad. But if you've never made cp soap, I wouldn't think about selling just yet

I'd love to make a lemon/citrus soap but have been told it can make the skin photosensitive?

It matters what citrus essential oils you want to use and how the citrus oils were extracted. Steam distilled lime is not phototoxic, bergaptene free citrus oils are not phototoxic, folded orange is not phototoxic. Also, lemongrass EO has a nice lemony scent, but is not phototoxic.

 

[Bubbles00]

Thank you Genny for taking the time to answer all my questions!!!!
I am interested in Essential Oil production too... the whole subject fascinates me and I know there is a LOT to learn.
I would like to produce a soap using local italian products olive oil lavender citrus... grapes. I have been making olive oil soap, but I think I need to mix it with another oil as it is very creamy and not so foamy..
Anyway thanks for your help.
More questions to follow :roll:

 

[judymoody]

Welcome to the forum!

You can make a mostly olive oil soap that is very satisfying by adding a small amount of coconut oil - say 20% of your recipe. Have fun roaming around here, there's lots of information to be had.

 

[Hazel]

Hello and welcome!

 

[IrishLass]

Welcome to the forum!


IrishLass