Hello from Surf City (Santa Cruz, that is)

[manydogs]

Hello to all! I've been reading all the wonderful posts on SMF for some time and finally decided to post and say "hello". I've been dabbling with various bath products for years (for myself and family) but have always been interested in CP soap making. The thought of working with lye was a little unnerving; however, I finally took a class at a local crafter's studio and found that it wasn't all that hard ... if you use your head. Well, my husband said that class created a monster. Like many "newbies", I went overboard and started buying all kinds of oils, clays, butters, molds, etc. Now I have soaps everywhere and my hobby area is overflowing with "stuff" ... but it's so much fun I just can't help myself.

My friends had talked me into selling some products at their upcoming office Crafts Fair; however, being a rather wary person, and after reading some of the business forum posts, I've decided to hold off on selling anything until I 1) get some 'base' products nailed down, 2) get more experience under my belt, and, most importantly, 3) get all the proper licenses, insurance, etc. in order. (You see, I have a great fear of losing all our hard earned savings in a lawsuit . Having worked for over thirty+ years in the Corporate world, I know a bit about people wanting to make a living off of filing lawsuits). So, I have to thank this site for their valuable information and bringing me down to earth!

Anyway, I look forward to gathering valuable information from experienced soapmakers and, hopefully, being able to help others in any way I can in the future (and maybe one day selling soap).

Jan

 

[pixybratt]

Welcome Neighbor!
I'm a little north of you in Redwood city!

 

[artisan soaps]

..

 

[IanT]

whats up!!! So... your from surf city!?!?! but do you SURF!?!?! ...


If so.... yaaaaay that makes 2 people who surf on the forum (and I would be one ... lol)

 

[manydogs]

Sorry Ian, my "surfing" is restricted to the web (although, I love to watch others tempt fate on the waves). I can barely swim let alone think of being out there in the cold water with all those ... fish.

And hello pixybratt. I'm very familiar with RC having worked in Mtn View for many years and frequenting Pete's Harbor ... a lot.

Yes, my addition is pretty bad. :wink: I have good intentions of getting a lot done around the house when I wake up, but I always end up making a batch of soap (or my other love ... bath fizzies and whipped lotions). Not to mention I have to use up some of these oils and butters that I bought ... in bulk. (Always shopping for a bargain, I decided it was cheaper to buy in bulk that a little here and there.) Now I'm sitting here with some oils with a short shelf life. Oh well, just an excuse to make more soap!

Anyway, thank you all for your warm welcome and I really do look forward to listening and learning.