Thank you for the tips! Like you, I am afraid of thicker trace and think the end of my working time is looming when soap starts to thicken. Full panic mode ensues, and then things go haywire. A lot of my swirl design soaps don't turn out right because I usually take a soap to emulsion, color, and go. The other day I made a batch and it thickened up on me so I thought the planned swirl was doomed. It turned out to be one of my favorite swirls to date, so I think a light bulb is starting to go off (after 1.5 years and dozens of batches). lol Your mention of pudding-like consistency is going to be ringing in my ears when I try this - very much appreciated!