Hello Soapers! (Soapmakers? Soapists? What is the correct term?)
I'm new to soap-making, and also haven't been on a forum since the ICQ days so hopefully I'm doing this right!
I love learning all manner of new hobbies, and when I recently turned over the labels from soaps made by one of my favourite local makers I got to wondering if it might be something I could make. Fast forward two weeks, and my first loaf worth is currently curing in an IKEA LENNART drawer cabinet while I research and dream up other concoctions! I also committed to some clays, butters, and even my first order of bulk essential oils. We're going whole-hog! I think for now I want to stick to natural colourants and essential oils, as that's what my favourite maker uses and I absolutely love her soaps - beautiful, natural scents that give a little aromatherapy session in the shower, and muted, natural colours.
I'm also fascinated by all the different factors that come into play in soap-making. Formulating test recipes in soapcalc and taking a look at the fatty acid content brought me right back to my undergrad chemistry days, and it feels good to use that part of my brain again. I'm very much looking forward to learning from everyone on this forum!
I'm new to soap-making, and also haven't been on a forum since the ICQ days so hopefully I'm doing this right!
I love learning all manner of new hobbies, and when I recently turned over the labels from soaps made by one of my favourite local makers I got to wondering if it might be something I could make. Fast forward two weeks, and my first loaf worth is currently curing in an IKEA LENNART drawer cabinet while I research and dream up other concoctions! I also committed to some clays, butters, and even my first order of bulk essential oils. We're going whole-hog! I think for now I want to stick to natural colourants and essential oils, as that's what my favourite maker uses and I absolutely love her soaps - beautiful, natural scents that give a little aromatherapy session in the shower, and muted, natural colours.
I'm also fascinated by all the different factors that come into play in soap-making. Formulating test recipes in soapcalc and taking a look at the fatty acid content brought me right back to my undergrad chemistry days, and it feels good to use that part of my brain again. I'm very much looking forward to learning from everyone on this forum!
Even though your curing cart is coated steel, it's always best to put a layer of something in between soap and anything metal, to avoid possible rancidity. Parchment paper or waxed paper are good choices. Oh, and we love soap pictures around here. 
