Crafting Bliss: Discover the Art of Homemade Old-Fashioned Lye Soap!

In the world of DIY projects, few things can compare to the satisfaction of making your own soap.

While I’ve scaled back a bit on canning, I’ve developed a new passion: crafting homemade old-fashioned lye soap. Not only is this soap a wonderful addition to your daily routine, but it also fills your home with delightful scents that bring warmth and comfort. Let’s explore the art of soap making and a simple recipe to get you started.

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Why Choose Homemade Lye Soap?

Homemade lye soap is not only a sustainable choice but also allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring that you know exactly what goes onto your skin. Unlike commercial soaps that often contain synthetic additives, lye soap is made from natural oils and fats, making it gentle and nourishing. Plus, the process of making soap can be incredibly therapeutic, allowing you to unleash your creativity while enjoying the rich aromas of essential oils and botanicals.

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The Recipe for Old-Fashioned Lye Soap

Ingredients

16 oz coconut oil
16 oz olive oil
16 oz palm oil
16 oz distilled water
6.5 oz lye (sodium hydroxide)
Essential oils (optional, for fragrance)

Equipment Needed

Safety goggles and gloves
Kitchen scale
Heat-resistant container for mixing lye
Stainless steel or plastic mixing bowl
Stick blender
Soap mold
Measuring spoons
Thermometer

Instructions

Step 1: Safety First

Before you begin, ensure you’re wearing safety goggles and gloves. Lye is caustic and can cause burns, so handling it with care is essential.

Step 2: Prepare the Lye Solution

Measure Water and Lye: In a heat-resistant container, measure out 16 oz of distilled water. In a separate container, carefully measure 6.5 oz of lye.
Mix: Slowly add the lye to the water (never the other way around) while stirring gently. The mixture will heat up and produce fumes, so do this in a well-ventilated area. Set aside to cool.

Step 3: Melt the Oils

Combine Oils: In a stainless steel pot, measure out the coconut oil, olive oil, and palm oil. Heat gently until all oils are melted and combined.
Cool: Allow the oils to cool to around 100-110°F (38-43°C).

Step 4: Combine Lye and Oils

Check Temperatures: Ensure both the lye solution and the oils are at a similar temperature (around 100-110°F).
Mix Together: Slowly pour the lye solution into the oils while stirring continuously.

Step 5: Blend to Trace

Blend: Use a stick blender to mix the soap batter until it reaches “trace” (when it thickens and leaves a trail on the surface).
Add Fragrance: If desired, add essential oils for fragrance at this stage and mix well.

Step 6: Pour into Mold

Mold the Soap: Pour the soap batter into the mold and smooth the top with a spatula.
Insulate: Cover the mold with a towel or blanket to keep it warm as it saponifies.

Step 7: Cure the Soap

Set Aside: Allow the soap to sit in the mold for 24-48 hours until it hardens.
Unmold: Once firm, carefully remove the soap from the mold and cut it into bars.
Cure Time: Place the bars on a drying rack and let them cure for 4-6 weeks. This allows the soap to fully saponify and ensures it’s safe for use.

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Making homemade old-fashioned lye soap is a rewarding experience that not only fills your home with wonderful aromas but also gives you a sense of accomplishment.

With just a few natural ingredients, you can create luxurious soap that is gentle on your skin and free from harmful additives. So why not give it a try? Your skin—and your home—will thank you! Happy soap making!