Do I have to use a calculator?

[vice]

Last month I bought a lavender soap making kit for beginners from Essential Depot. My daughter and I made the soap and now we're ready to make a new batch with a different EO.

Could we make a new batch if we use the same ratios/types of oils and the only change would be the type of EO? For example: the kit came with 1oz of lavender EO and we want to change it to a blend of 2 different EO's (still equalling 1oz of EO).

Would this work?

 

[The Efficacious Gentleman]

You should always run a recipe through a calculator at least once - mistakes with typing/printing happen, which can cause major issues.

To get really in to soaping you have to do it at some point, so why not now? There is a sticky at the top of the section (http://www.soapmakingforum.com/showthread.php?t=49627) with a great guide on using SoapCalc.

But in direct answer to your question, you CAN just change the EO - as long as you stay within safe usage amounts for particular EOs!

 

[Cactuslily]

I'm a new soaper, but I've done this. Unless you're changing oils or butters, I don't think there's a problem. Just look to see if whatever you are changing it for affects trace. Some accelerate that process so it helps to know in advance, especially if you are a new soaper.

 

[dixiedragon]

It depends on the EO. For example, you could definitely use 1 oz of lemongrass EO, but I think 1 oz of cinnamon EO would be a bad idea. And 1 oz of peppermint EO would be VERY strong!

What EO are you using?

 

[vice]

Thanks for the replies. We're thinking about using lemon and lavender on our next batch.

 

[The Efficacious Gentleman]

I'd look to use lemongrass instead - very similar scent and it lasts longer in the soap than an actual citrus scent.

 

[Susie]

Be sure you are using the exact same oils used in the kit initially, and that you know how much of each, as well as exactly how much NaOH. Small differences can make a big difference. I have never used a kit, so I am not sure if it came with a precise recipe of what all is in there. I would be cautious if any of the oils were already blended.

BTW-Welcome to the forum!

 

[shunt2011]

I agree with using lemongrass. It's easy to use and it sticks. I love lemongrass straight up and blended with other EO's/FO's