CP Soapmaking Classes in Miami, FL

[La Casita de Ali]

Is anyone aware of any CP soapmaking classes in the Miami, Florida area. Am willing to travel a bit. I've never made soap but I would LOVE to get over my initial fears and have someone show me. Thanks.

 

[Hazel]

I don't know of any but it might help some if you watch soapqueentv's cold process method series on youtube. http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLAADF6209996265D2

BTW, there's really nothing to be afraid of with making CP soap. I was fearful at first and after I made my first batch I wondered why I had been so scared. Read as much as you can about the process, watch the videos, use protective gear and allow yourself some uninterrupted time. The only disagreement I have about soapqueen's lye video is she shows mixing the lye in a Pyrex cup. Please don't use glass for mixing lye - it can potentially shatter. I recommend a plastic container with either PP #5 on the bottom or HDPE #2 (#2 isn't as heat resistant but it will work) or a stainless steel container. Also, please don't use wooden utensils. The lye will degrade the wood over time and cause it to splinter.

Just a thought - have you called local craft stores and asked them about soapmaking classes?

 

[La Casita de Ali]

Thank you so much for your quick reply. I have bought about a half dozen books and have some DVD's. I live in an apt. and am a bit concerned about the lye fumes though. Not sure if I should venture out on the terrace since it is sometimes windy. I'll follow your suggestion and look into some craft stores to see what they offer. It's a desert here in the South Florida area when it comes to these types of classes. I purchased a couple of DVD's from Marla Bosworth (Back Porch Soap Company) and I know she has workshops but they're either up north or in California. I guess I'll just keep educating myself and eventually bite the bullet. Thanks for a great forum. I was very impressed with the information and the variety. I'll post updates as I progress with this. Thanks again.

 

[La Casita de Ali]

Just looked over the Soap Queen videos on You Tube. Absolutely awesome. She goes over things pretty quick so multiple viewings are needed but this is a great link and her website is terrific. Thanks!!!

 

[Hazel]

You're welcome. The lye fumes aren't bad if you're making small batches. I generally make 2lb or smaller batches and the fumes are hardly noticeable. You still might find some info if you call local craft stores. Perhaps try calling adult education schools - we have a small vocational school in town which offers evening classes like flower arranging, stained glass, air brushing, etc. They're never offered a soapmaking class but the area you live in might have something.

Please be patient. You still may get an answer but it might take a few days. If you don't get another answer by tomorrow, just bump your post so it will show up under "view new topics".

 

[La Casita de Ali]

Hey Nicole, I wish I had known this a month ago. I went to Mossy Creek Soap Studio in Georgia for a two day workshop. It was great and I finally got over my lye jitters. Good to know you're there though. Do you have a website? Thanks, Alicia