Last weekend, I made another batch of soap — the first one on my own and not in class.  I used a different recipe because I wanted to try something new.  This one was mostly olive oil, but also had some shea butter, palm oil, and I think the other one was coconut oil (I don’t have the recipe with me right now).  I used a rain forest scent to make something more refreshing (and less girly so I could gift it to male friends and family).

It went pretty well, but it seems like I had a hard time getting it to trace.  I think the wand mixer I bought isn’t as powerful as the one I used in class (I just couldn’t justify spending $40 on one) and maybe the combination of oils I used just take longer to trace.  Or maybe I was so nervous and excited about my soap in class that I didn’t notice how long it took.  Anyway, it finally did trace and it seems to be setting up just fine.

Right now, it’s a pale yellow color, but on the edges where it’s already starting to dry, it’s becoming a darker, golden color.  Almost like amber.  And it’s making my spare bedroom smell really nice!

My oatmeal/honey soap I made in class is now ready to use, but I haven’t tried it yet.

I’m going on a trip the weekend after next and I’m thinking of getting some cotton thread and making washcloths.  It’s an easy, portable project I can do on the plane, or carry in my purse, and starting now I can get plenty made to have on hand for gifts.  I think a bar of handmade soap, with a small container of handmade lotion and a handmade washcloth would make a really nice gift for Christmas or just to have on hand when you need a gift.  Of all those items, the washcloths take the longest to make (if you don’t count curing time for the soap)!