Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
utensil. When you reach the trace—when there is a grooved trail left behind the stir
stick as it moves through the mix—prepare to pour into the prepared molds.
(2) When adding all the mixed ingredients (except the fragrance) to the oil/lye mix, it is
important to stir thoroughly.
(3) This is the trace stage, when the mix is pudding-like. This is when you add the fra-
grance. If you add it too soon, it will volatilize and may even become part of the oil mix,
changing the chemistry of your final product.
(4) Pour into your flat mold and treat as before. But if you are using a mold that isn't flat,
be sure to partially fill the mold and then stir a little to make sure air bubbles don't get
trapped in the bottom of the final product.
(5) A finished flower made from your soap is attractive, and makes a great gift or item to
sell.
Some soapmakers use a large pan when they make mixes, similar to what you see in
the photos here. This pan is lined and after cutting and drying is lifted out of the pan,
sometime destroying the corner bars. This pan is heavy enough that turning isn't prac-
tical by hand, so keep the scale of your operation in mind when making up new formu-
lae.
