Soapmaking the Natural Way

Book excerpt: This book offers simple techniques and sophisticated, 100% natural soaps that please the eye and the environment. The melt-and-pour method offers readers a safe and accessible way to make soaps at home without investing in elaborate tools or supplies and author Rebecca Ittner's friendly, you-can-too writing style invites both the novice and the aficionado to delve into the world of soapmaking. The eco-friendly, animal-free ingredients featured in each project span a delicious range from oatmeal, lavender, sweet almond butter and coconut milk to honeysuckle, orange cream, clay and fresh mint. Types of soap bases are discussed in detail and readers learn the ins-and-outs of essential oils and their benefits, the scientific properties of clays and how to recognise and use types of colorants. Not only are the ingredients used luscious, they (and the basic soapmaking tools and supplies) are all readily available at standard craft supply shops. The reader will find this book to be an affordable, inviting and informative resource as well as an inspiring collection of projects.