I enjoy making rebatched/hand milled soap. This soap making method uses ready made soap as the base. You usually grate it, melt it, then mix in your additives, pour it into the mold and wait for it to set..

It’s essential to use a good recipe though, so the amount of additives you use is correct. Otherwise you can end up with a disastrous bar of soap.

Wear protective clothing is also important. The last time I made hand milled soap, I was glad I was wearing safety goggles as otherwise I would have gotten grated soap flakes in my eyes!

Wearing safety goggles, protective gloves, clothes and shoes is key to making soap safely. Melted soap is very hot and if you accidentally splashed yourself, you wouldn’t want it land on bare skin. Ouch!

It’s fun to think up what kind of additives you want to use, eg glitter, oatmeal, herbs or flower petals. I love creating my own color and scent combinations, such as peppermint vanilla or vanilla mocha swirl.

There are so many different kinds of soap molds out there. Think up one and you can probably buy it! There also soap stamps available, such as a “Hand Made” stamp to show everyone that you really did make the soap yourself.

Rebatched/hand milled soap takes from 24 hours to two weeks to set at room temperature. Once the soap has set in the molds, it’s time to unmold it. Just turn the mold upside down on a clean soft surface (so the soap doesn’t chip if it comes out with a rush) and the soap should pop out. If you’re having trouble getting the soap out of the mold, run some warm water over the base of the mold and try again.

Soap making is an addictive hobby. It’s so satisfying to look at a gorgeous bar of soap you’ve made yourself and is enjoyable to use as well. So what are you waiting for? Start making your own soap today!