Making your own bathing soap at home is a rewarding DIY project that lets you control the ingredients, fragrance, and appearance of what you use on your skin. This guide will walk you through a simple cold process soap making method using natural ingredients like shea butter and palm kernel oil. No advanced tools or skills are needed, just some patience and the right steps and you will be good to go.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup shea butter
– 2 cups palm kernel oil
– 2 tablespoons calcium powder
– 1 cup lye solution (diluted lime water)
– 2 tablespoons glycerine
– Few drops of perfume or essential oil (optional)
– Soap colorant (any color of your choice)
Note: Make sure all ingredients are clean and measured properly. Use gloves and safety glasses if needed, especially when handling the lye solution.
Tools You’ll Need:
– 2 mixing bowls (preferably heat-resistant)
– Stirring stick or hand whisk
– Fine sieve or strainer
– Soap molds (plastic or silicone)
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Clean towel or tray to keep the molds on
Step by Step Procedure:
1. Melt the Shea Butter
Place your shea butter in a bowl and gently melt it using low heat. You can use a double boiling method or microwave in short bursts.
2. Add Palm Kernel Oil
Once the shea butter is fully melted, add the palm kernel oil. Stir well to combine. Strain the mixture through a fine sieve to remove any particles or impurities. Pour the clean oil back into the bowl.
3. Prepare the Calcium-Lye Solution
In a separate bowl, add the calcium powder. Slowly pour in the lye solution while stirring continuously until the powder is fully dissolved. This may take a minute or two.
4. Combine the Mixtures
Add your chosen perfume or essential oil to the oil mixture. Slowly and carefully pour the calcium-lye solution into the oil bowl, stirring (in one direction only). Continue mixing until the mixture thickens to a smooth, paste-like consistency. This is a crucial step, so take your time and stir steadily.
5. Add Glycerine and Color
Once your mixture is thick and even, add glycerine and a few drops of your chosen color. Stir again in one direction for another minute or two until fully blended.
6. Pour into Molds
Pour the soap mixture into your molds. Gently tap or shake the molds to remove air bubbles and ensure the soap settles properly.
7. Let It Set
Place the molds in a cool, dry place, away from heat and sunlight; and leave them undisturbed for (at least 5 hours) or until fully solidified.
Final Tips for Beginners
– Be patient; don’t rush the mixing or setting process.
– Always stir in (one direction) to get a smooth and stable soap texture.
– Customize your soap with essential oils or natural additives like oats or herbs (optional for later practice).
With this simple guide, you’re well on your way to making your own nourishing soap at home. Enjoy your DIY creation as you click below 👇 to watch it step by step from the short video tutorial.
