Ok, for some reason, I can't check the box that says "quote message in reply". I'm guessing I may have to post a few times before it's enabled? No biggie...
Paula (sprklngsaphire), thanks! I was nervous about the lye at first too, just be sure to mix it in a well ventilated area and slowly add the lye to the water, not the other way around. I have a very small kitchen so when I mixed, I did it on the stove top and turned the exhaust fan on or placed it on the windowsill with the window open to allow air to circulate. For initial start-up, I probably spent more than I should have so to answer your question, yes, there certainly is a lot you can buy. I have enough supplies to last a long time and didn't think about the shelf life of some of the oils I purchased. I've also been making my own lotions/insect repellent/sunscreen so the oils are going to other uses, just not as quickly as I had originally thought. I hope I don't end up having to throw anything away, that's for sure.
summerflyy, eucalyptus alone is a very strong scent! EO's can be hit or miss and if you use too much, well, I guess you already figured that one out! lol. The best way I can describe the Cedarwood and Tea Tree mix would be something similar to an evergreen type smell, sort of like a mix of different types of pines or a woodsy type scent. It's not my everyday soap though, I mostly use it when I return from hiking as a prevention against ticks, etc. since they don't like the smell. EO's are proving to be a challenge to me as well, I'm still learning about them as I go so it also adds another challenge to my soap making, but it's been fun so far!
Hi there! And welcome aboard!!
