Just getting started in MN

[songwind]

I got interested in soap making (and soap in general) while learning about how shaving soap works. When I realized how straightforward the process was, I started thinking about making my own.

I'm just about to get started, so I'm here to learn a lot.

Eric

 

[melstan775]

Welcome to the forum Eric! We have a fair number of men here, so you're not alone. So what do you mean you'er about to get started? Assumably you're not going off to the kitchen this minute?

 

[ruby61]

There is alot to learn and this is a good place to start

 

[Genny]

Welcome to the forum

 

[Badger]

Welcome to the forum, Eric!

 

[MaitriBB]

Welcome, happy to have you!

 

[maya]

Welcome! I am in Minnesota, too!

 

[songwind]

Welcome to the forum Eric! We have a fair number of men here, so you're not alone. So what do you mean you'er about to get started? Assumably you're not going off to the kitchen this minute?

Hah. No, I mean I have done my research about what's involved and made the decision I want to try it. Now I have to get my stuff, which is what I'm up to, now.

For other MN residents, is there anywhere to get reasonably priced supplies in the Twin Cities area? Or is mail order my only option?

 

[Genny]

I'm not in MN, I'm over in Eau Claire, WI, but you can get most of your base oils (olive, coconut, castor, etc) at Wal Mart or the grocery store. Lye you may be able to get at Menards or Ace Hardware.
I know Sweet Cakes is in Minnetonka http://www.sweetcakes.com/default.php but I think they're an online only supplier.
Bitter Creek North is up in Ashland, WI.

You might want to check out http://suppliersbystate.com

 

[Genny]

I just thought of another supplier in MN & it's in St. Paul, http://www.shawneesoapmaker.com
They sell their own soaps & soap making supplies. I've never bought from them, so I don't know if you can pick up your orders. You could always contact them & find out though.

 

[songwind]

Thanks, Genny!

KOH is definitely a pain to find (My ultimate current goal will be a soft shaving soap, which all seem to use a mix of NaOH and KOH) but everything else is turning out easier. I think Menards has 100% Lye drain cleaner, at least according to their website. I think a trip to Wal-Mart and/or Valley Natural Foods is in order, too.

Eric

 

[crysvan]

I too have just discovered soapmaking and I am from Minneapolis!

 

[Hazel]

Hi Eric,

Welcome to the forum! :grin:

 

[maya]

Several Ace hardwares have lye in the cities or will happily order it for you. One that has it in stock is Welna hardware in the Seward neighborhood of Minneapolis.