Test batches

FifthCap · May 24, 2014

When y'all come up with a new recipe or try a completely different kind of soap how big do y'all make your test batches?

Susie · May 24, 2014

I make a minimum of a 1 lb batch. Any smaller, and any slight overages or shortages(1-2 gm either way) will play too big a role in the outcome.

IrishLass · May 24, 2014

Mine are 1.3 lbs., which fills my tester mold up to the top and gives me just enough over-pour to fill up a single-cavity guest-size mold. That way I can test how the FOs and /or colorants behave gelled and non-gelled (my main tester mold always goes through gel, while the singe-cavity mold does not).

IrisjLass

PinkCupcake · May 24, 2014

I have made 1 lb batches, but I prefer my 2 lb mold. With the 1 lb batch, if I like the soap, I don't have enough to share! The 2 lb mold is big enough to make 7 good bars and 2 end slivers, but if a batch isn't quite right, I don't feel like I have wasted too much.

Lynnz · May 24, 2014

Now that I am not selling I have a 1.7lb mold and love it to bits. I think I can handle testing at this size and if I really don't like the soap then it will become curls or balls or decoration bits of some sorts for other soaps

Skatergirl46 · May 24, 2014

I use my 2 pound mold. I don't usually do smaller batches for the same reason as PinkCupcake. It's nice to have some left to share if it turns out to be good.

AustinStraight · May 24, 2014

I just do 2 pounds, too. I'm too scared to go low because I know it can make a big difference if you add a tiny bit of extra lye or a tiny bit less than you should when you make a really small batch.

LunaSkye · May 24, 2014

I usually make 5 oz. to 10 oz. of soap to test out. I know a few people who liked what I made, but I don't want to make guinea pigs out of them when it comes to some of my ideas. I like to save the skin irritation for myself first.