Loaf Cutting

[Hux]

I have been using a lined wooden mold lately, doing some HP soap making. One thing I notice is that the outer edges of the loaf, when finished, aren't that smooth....especially the top!

I can cut the loaf into individual bars just fine, but I'm finding that, after I do that, I end up individually trimming each of the side edges of the bar. This sort of results in bars not being the exact same shape/size.

Anybody have any suggestions on a better way to do this? Possibly taking care of all of the outer edges of the loaf at once before cutting down into bars?

Are there maybe any tips on filling the mold I could use to try and improve this?

Thanks!

 

[Guest]

I'm just new at soaping as well, but I find that HP soap comes out bumpy on the top, but I like that rustic look.

Mine have smooth sides though. What are you using the line the mold? I use parchment paper and try to make sure it's very smooth, using different pieces for the ends and the sides so there aren't any folded parts. The soap doesn't stick hard and peels right off when it's cool.

 

[LJA]

A beveler/planer is a great investment. I love mine...

 

[Gramma Judy]

I have used freezer paper but, have now switched to contact paper to line the mold. Do not remove the paper part that exposes the sticky. Use that side of the paper for the inside of the mold. I can use up to four or five times and also nice crisp sides. Plus the contact paper has cutting lines on the back of it so it is easy to measure to fit the mold. HTH

 

[TheSoapyEwe]

Are you removing the soap from the mold and removing the freezer paper before it's totally cool?
I notice if I take it out of the mold when still warm that my edges are what I call "fuzzy looking".

I don't mind though because I'm really not going for the perfect store bought look, I really like the rustic look of hot process, fuzzy edges, heaping tops and all

 

[Jody63]

I know the silicone molds are expensive, but to me they are worth thier weight in soap! The soap comes out smooth and perfect. I have several molds from this company and LOVE them. www.uplandsoapfactory.com They are great people to order from as well. It is so nice to just peel away the sides of my soap and it comes right out.

 

[Jody63]

P.S. I own two slab molds and two log molds, meant to put that in previous post

 

[Guest]

WSP has some fantastic new silicone molds with free shipping , they aren't spendy at all.

Kitn