Turtle and Frog Natural Soap

How We Make Our Soap - Part 1

Put very simply, soap is the result of a chemical reaction that occurs when fats, water and lye are combined.  Lye as a raw ingredient is a caustic substance.  Once the reaction has taken place the ingredients become soap.  When the soap is properly cured, it is not harsh.

But when we make soap we are beginning with raw materials, and so safety is a must!!!
We protect ourselves by wearing safety glasses, gloves, and long sleeves (when it's not too hot).
We make sure we have help, towels, and water (for fast washing) nearby in case it's needed.

First I put my shortening and olive oil in a large stainless steel pot.
I put the pot on low heat until they are thoroughly melted.

The oil is still pretty hot, so while it's cooling, I begin working on the lye and water pot.

Then I put the water in another large pot.  I take this pot of water OUTSIDE!!!!
If my safety glasses are not on at this point, I put them on.
I may skip the gloves from time to time, but I NEVER take chances with my eyes.

I carefully and slowly add the lye to the pot of water.
I hold my breath, stir and STAND BACK!
Some nasty vapors blow off at first, and the water quickly heats to very, very HOT.
I keep stirring until the lye is completely dissolved in the water.
I walk away from the pot to catch a fresh breath of air as I need to.

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This page was last updated on 09/12/06

All artwork and photographs copyright 1999 Jacqueline Irwin