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The cherry is the fruit of many plants of the genus Prunus. Prunus is a genus of trees and shrubs, which includes plums, cherries, peaches, nectarines, apricots and almonds. The fruit from this genus are commonly called stone fruit. Plants can be deciduous or evergreen and the fruit is a fleshy drupe with a single relatively large, hard-coated seed (called a “stone”).

Blended soaps can be the best when it comes to cleansing your skin. By understanding the properties of oils, you can control the outcome of your homemade soaps. Here are some common oils that you may consider adding to your next recipe.

They Say They Love You, but They Don’t Support Your Entrepreneurial Goals. 

In a previous column I discussed the amazing work of Clara Lindberg (AuntieClaras.com) using the partial gel effect for artistic purposes. This month features her pioneering work exploring the phenomenon of Glycerin Rivers, a crackling of soap texture seen by some as an annoying problem and by others as an exotic feature. Clara’s experiments have gone a long way toward finding the conditions under which rivers appear, but many interesting questions remain unanswered. This article reports my progress on these issues, working with my students, Myshak Abdi, Adam Christenson, and John Sheffield.

A frequently asked question in soap-making workshops concerns the best methods for wrapping handmade soap. This section shares effective techniques that balance functionality with aesthetic appeal. Cold-process soaps are commonly packaged in cotton muslin bags. These bags not only allow the soap to breathe but also protect it from light exposure and shelf wear, extending the soap's lifespan. Attached to each bag is a folded business card-sized hang tag, providing ample space for listing all ingredients and compliance details and explaining the story behind the meticulously formulated soaps.In contrast, clear glycerin soaps require a different approach due to their hygroscopic nature—they attract environmental moisture. This can lead to moisture forming on the soap, similar to condensation on a cold glass. To combat this, it is recommended to use stretch AEP wrap, which offers better stretchability and adherence compared to regular wraps like Saran or Reynolds Clear Wrap. For retail setups, cold-processed soaps are often presented in a way that allows customers to see and smell a sample bar. One bar is left open, and a stainless steel deli pin attaches the hang tag. This setup helps customers match the tag with the soap they wish to purchase.For glycerin soaps, after wrapping them neatly in AEP stretch wrap, it is advisable to place them in a clear cello bag sealed with a label that meets all labeling requirements. This label should include the soap name, a full ingredient list, and the producer's contact information. This protects the soap from humidity and enhances its shelf appeal. Step 1: Stretch the AEP wrap before it contacts the soap to ensure a tight and smooth fit.Step 2: Carefully lower the pre-stretched wrap to contact the top of the soap, ensuring it covers smoothly without any creases.Step 3: Stretch and pull the wrap tightly across all sides of the soap, directing any excess wrap towards the back.Step 4: Trim the excess wrap and neatly press the seams together at the back. The wrap sticks to itself effectively, but a small piece of clear scotch tape can be used for additional security. The presentation of soap can significantly enhance its appeal, especially in gift-giving or retail scenarios. Consider these decorative options: Muslin Bags for Rustic Charm: Ideal for cold-process soaps, these bags can be customized with stamps or heat transfers to reflect the brand or the soap's unique qualities. Clear Cello Bags for Visibility: Perfect for showcasing glycerin soaps, these bags protect the soap while allowing its color and texture to be visible. Custom Labels for a Professional Touch: Labels must be informative and visually appealing, reflecting the quality and craftsmanship of the handmade product. With these techniques and tips, anyone can ensure that their homemade soaps are well-protected and beautifully presented, whether on store shelves or wrapped as thoughtful gifts.

This video showcases our Oval Column Silicone Soap Mold. In this short video, we offer some tips and tricks for using this fun soap making tool. Create embeds for loaf molds with this mold, when the loaf is sliced the oval design will appear in each bar of soap! We love this mold for Easter and making soaps with 'egg' embeds. It can also be used in conjunction with other small column shape molds to create your own unique designs!

We just love this soap- nothing cooler looking than a soap pouf on a rope. It’s a soft nylon bath pouf embedded in your favorite glycerin soap. It’s super easy, fun to create, and makes the greatest lather in the shower or bath. We’ve scented this batch with Sweet Rain fragrance oil- lovely orchid petals and fresh rain with just a touch of powder – gorgeous! Learning how to make soap couldn’t be easier.Supplies and equipment needed:MicrowaveMicrowave safe glass containersSharp knife to cut soap into cubesSpray bottle with rubbing alcoholButter knives for stirring soapRubber glovesDisposable pipettesLarge Bath Bomb Mold (4 cavities: 3 ounces per cavity) Not just for bath bombs!Thermometer to monitor soap base temperaturePopsicle sticksBath Poufs (we were able to pick up 5 small poufs for $1 at the Dollar Store)- score!!!16 ounces Clear Melt & Pour soap baseSweet Rain Fragrance OilVariety of Gel Soap Colorants of your choice. I used Lime, Melon Red, Aqua, Purple and Black Cherry. Step 1: Cut up 16 ounces of Clear Melt & Pour soap base into small cubes using a sharp knife.Step 2: We’re going to melt the entire batch at one time so that the process goes faster. Melt the soap base in a microwave safe glass container. Melt in the microwave in 30-second bursts until melted. Do not burn or boil, this will result in a poor quality rubbery soap. If you have any small chunks of soap left, don’t use the microwave, just stir slowly; the heat of the soap will melt these small chunks.Step 3: Using a disposable pipette, add 4 ml of Orchid Rain Fragrance Oil. Stir in slowly until fully incorporated. Always stir your soap base slowly to avoid forming bubbles in the soap.Step 4: Pour 4 ounces of your fragranced soap base into a separate container and mix in 2 drops of Gel Soap Colorant in Lime. Stir slowly until mixed well. Lime is a vibrant yellow/lime color- this one will wake you up! Check your soap temperature with a thermometer- you don’t want the soap base to be too hot. You’ll want to pour it into the soap mold at around 135 degrees.Step 5: First, pour a small amount of your prepared 4 ounces of soap base into one of the cavities of the large Bath Bomb Mold (the picture shown is the color Melon Red being poured into the mold). Second, spritz your Nylon Bath Pouf with alcohol to make sure the soap travels well.Step 6: Carefully place the pouf into your mold cavity and squish it into the soap (gently). Wait a bit till the pouf stays in the mold without floating up – this won’t take too long. Slowly pour some of the glycerin soap base over the bath pouf, being careful to not embed the nylon rope of the pouf.Step 7: Use a popsicle stick to push the edges of the pouf into the mold cavity (picture shown is the aqua soap pouf). Continue to pour the remainder of your soap base into the cavity. The reason you are pouring 4 oz of soap into a 3 oz soap mold is that the soap wicks up into the nylon pouf – you need a bit more to fill the mold with the soap base. You can choose to pour the soap over your pouf, or right down the center of the pouf. Stop when the soap reaches the top of the mold.Step 8: To change up your color, choose another pouf and repeat steps 4 to 7.Note: It is not necessary to color your soap base because the bath pouf will bring color to your soap – however, it does add some nice contrast. Go on- experiment and have fun!Step 9: Wait 2-3 hours for the soap to completely harden.Step 10: Turn the mold over carefully and slowly press on the bottom of the cavity to release the soap. Do not force it. If the soap won’t come out, wait another 1/2 hour or so. You can even pop the soap in the freezer for 5 minutes then try again. Creating your own bath pouf with soap is a fun and rewarding DIY project that can add a touch of personalization to your bath routine. Here are some tips to help you make the perfect soap pouf: Choose the Right Soap Base: For a bath pouf with soap, select a soap base that suits your skin type and preferences. Glycerin soap bases are great for moisturizing, while shea butter bases provide extra nourishment. Add Exfoliants: To enhance the scrubbing action, consider adding exfoliants like oatmeal, poppy seeds, or ground coffee to your soap base. These natural ingredients help remove dead skin cells and leave your skin feeling smooth. Use a Durable Mesh: The quality of the mesh you use for the pouf is crucial. Look for a sturdy, high-quality mesh material that will hold up well and provide a good lather. Nylon mesh is a popular choice for DIY bath poufs. Properly Melt and Pour the Soap: When melting the soap base, do so slowly and evenly to avoid any air bubbles or uneven textures. Pour the melted soap into the mold and allow it to set completely before assembling your pouf. What type of soap is best for making a DIY soap pouf?The best type of soap for a DIY soap pouf is a glycerin or shea butter soap base. These bases are moisturizing and gentle on the skin, making them ideal for everyday use.How long does a homemade soap pouf last?The lifespan of a homemade soap pouf depends on usage and care. Typically, a well-made soap pouf can last several weeks. To extend its life, allow the pouf to dry completely between uses and avoid leaving it in standing water.What are the benefits of using a soap pouf compared to regular soap?A soap pouf provides gentle exfoliation, creating a rich lather that helps to cleanse the skin more effectively. It also helps to distribute the soap evenly, ensuring that you use the right amount and avoid wastage.Can I add exfoliating ingredients to my soap pouf?Yes, you can add exfoliating ingredients like oatmeal, poppy seeds, or ground coffee to your DIY soap pouf. These ingredients help to gently scrub away dead skin cells, leaving your skin smooth and refreshed.

Wondering if you could sell more of your products by experimenting with different pricing offers, or perhaps capture more sales by presenting your existing pricing promotions differently? Here’s consumer psychology you can use to structure your pricing in a way to will boost website conversion and response to your marketing pieces, and tempt the customers you’ve already won to buy more.

Creating your own hanger swirl tool is a simple and effective way to add intricate swirl patterns to your homemade soaps. The hanger swirl soap technique is a popular method among soap makers for achieving stunning visual effects. If you're looking to delve into soap swirl techniques without purchasing specialized equipment, crafting a diy hanger swirl tool from everyday items is a practical solution. This guide outlines how to construct a functional soap swirl tool, leveraging materials likely already available in your household. Difficulty Level: Easy- Outcome: 1 DIY Soap Swirling ToolTime Investment- Preparation: 5 minutes- Assembly: 10 minutes- Total: 15 minutesRequired Materials- A non-coated silver metal hanger or a 24-inch length of plastic-coated clothesline wire, avoiding any coated hangers to prevent flaking in the soap.- Two flexible drinking straws- Scissors- Pliers with wire cutter functionality (having an additional set of pliers may be beneficial)- The soap mold you intend to use for sizing the tool Step 1. Prepare the Wire: Begin by cutting the hanger on both sides to open and straighten the wire, forming the base of your hanger swirl tool for soap making.Step 2. Adjust the Straws: Align the straws inside your mold to gauge the required length, allowing them to slightly overlap before trimming the excess, leaving about an inch protruding.Step 3. Assemble the Straws: Interlock the cut straws by tucking one end into the other, ensuring they fit snugly within the mold and can move without hindrance.Step 4. Combine Wire and Straws: Pry the straws apart and thread the wire through them, centering the straws along the wire. At one end of the straw-wire assembly, create a bend at the flexible part of the straw to secure it, using pliers if necessary.Step 5. Finalize the Shape: Bend the opposite end of the wire to ensure the tool can comfortably reach both ends of the mold while maintaining free movement. It's important that the tool does not catch on the mold edges, so you may need to adjust the bends accordingly.Step 6. Trim Excess Wire: Once satisfied with the fit and freedom of movement, cut off any excess wire from both ends to finalize your metal swirl pattern tool. Your diy hanger swirl tool is now ready to use. Enjoy experimenting with different hanger swirl techniques to create unique patterns in your soaps. This diy approach not only saves money but also adds a personal touch to your soap-making process. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced soap maker, utilizing a hanger swirl tool in your projects can elevate the aesthetic of your homemade soaps, making each one a unique piece of art.

Pumpkin seed oil has recently gained popularity as a natural remedy for promoting healthy hair. This nutrient-rich oil, extracted from pumpkin seeds, is packed with vitamins and minerals that nourish the scalp, strengthen hair follicles, and even support hair growth. Whether you’re looking to add shine to your locks or address hair thinning, pumpkin seed oil can be a valuable addition to your hair care routine. Let’s explore the benefits of pumpkin seed oil and how to incorporate it into your hair care regimen. Pumpkin seed oil is derived from the seeds of pumpkins, specifically from the Cucurbita pepo variety. The oil is typically extracted through a cold-press method, which helps retain its rich nutritional profile. Known for its deep green or reddish color and nutty aroma, pumpkin seed oil has been used for centuries for its health and beauty benefits. When applied to hair, it provides essential nutrients that nourish and support the scalp and hair follicles, helping you achieve healthier, stronger hair. Pumpkin seed oil is a powerhouse of nutrients that contribute to hair health. Here are some of the key nutrients in pumpkin seed oil that make it beneficial for hair: Vitamin E: This antioxidant is believed to help protect hair from damage caused by environmental factors like pollution and UV rays. It also said to improve blood circulation in the scalp, promoting healthier hair growth. Zinc: Essential for hair tissue growth and repair, zinc also helps maintain the oil glands around hair follicles, preventing dryness and flakiness on the scalp. Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acids: These essential fatty acids help nourish the scalp, reduce inflammation, and improve the overall health of hair strands, making them less prone to breakage. Phytosterols: These compounds may block the conversion of testosterone into DHT (dihydrotestosterone), a hormone linked to hair thinning and loss, making pumpkin seed oil a potential natural remedy for hair loss. Magnesium: Known for its ability to strengthen hair and reduce hair thinning, magnesium is known for maintaining hair’s structural integrity. Incorporating pumpkin seed oil into your hair care routine can result in several benefits: Nourishes and Hydrates: Pumpkin seed oil deeply moisturizes both the scalp and hair, making it especially beneficial for dry, brittle hair. Its rich composition of essential fatty acids ensures hydration and keeps hair soft and manageable. Strengthens Hair: The combination of vitamins and minerals in pumpkin seed oil helps strengthen hair follicles, preventing breakage and improving hair texture. Prevents Hair Thinning and Hair Loss: The phytosterols in pumpkin seed oil may help block DHT, a hormone that contributes to hair loss, making it a great natural option for those struggling with thinning hair or alopecia. Promotes a Healthy Scalp: By nourishing the scalp and balancing oil production, pumpkin seed oil can help reduce issues like dandruff, flakiness, and itching. A healthy scalp is key to promoting stronger hair growth. Adds Shine: Pumpkin seed oil gives hair a healthy shine by sealing moisture into the strands, reducing frizz, and giving the hair a smooth, glossy appearance. There are several ways to incorporate pumpkin seed oil into your hair care routine to maximize its benefits: Scalp Massage: One of the best ways to use pumpkin seed oil is by massaging it into your scalp. Warm a small amount of oil and apply it to your scalp using gentle circular motions. This helps improve blood circulation, nourish hair follicles, and promote hair growth. Leave the oil on for at least 30 minutes or overnight for deeper penetration, then wash it out with a gentle shampoo. Hair Mask: For a deep conditioning treatment, mix pumpkin seed oil with other nourishing oils like coconut or olive oil. Apply the mixture to your hair from roots to tips, cover with a shower cap, and let it sit for 30-60 minutes before rinsing. This treatment hydrates and revitalizes dry, damaged hair. Leave-In Treatment: For added shine and protection against frizz, apply a small amount of pumpkin seed oil to the ends of damp hair. This works especially well for curly or textured hair, keeping it soft and manageable. Add to Shampoo or Conditioner: You can also add a few drops of pumpkin seed oil to your regular shampoo or conditioner for an extra boost of hydration and nourishment. One of the most talked-about benefits of pumpkin seed oil for hair is its potential to stimulate hair growth. Studies suggest that the phytosterols in pumpkin seed oil may inhibit the production of DHT, a hormone associated with hair loss, particularly in individuals with androgenic alopecia (male or female pattern baldness). By blocking DHT, pumpkin seed oil can help maintain the health of hair follicles and promote hair regrowth.In addition to its potential in slowing hair loss, the high concentration of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals in pumpkin seed oil helps nourish the scalp and improve overall hair health, creating an optimal environment for hair growth. Regular scalp massages with pumpkin seed oil can further stimulate blood flow to the hair follicles, encouraging thicker, fuller hair over time. Q: Can pumpkin seed oil help with hair loss?A: Yes, the phytosterols in pumpkin seed oil may block DHT, a hormone linked to hair loss. This makes it a potential natural remedy for reducing hair thinning and promoting hair regrowth, especially for those with androgenic alopecia.Q: How often should I use pumpkin seed oil on my hair?A: You can use pumpkin seed oil 1-2 times per week, either as a scalp treatment or as part of a hair mask. If using it as a leave-in conditioner, apply a small amount after every wash to maintain hydration and shine.Q: Is pumpkin seed oil safe for all hair types?A: Yes, pumpkin seed oil is suitable for all hair types, including dry, oily, curly, and straight hair. Its lightweight texture ensures that it doesn’t weigh hair down or leave a greasy residue, making it a versatile option for different hair needs.Q: Can pumpkin seed oil prevent dandruff?A: Yes, pumpkin seed oil’s nourishing and moisturizing properties help balance the scalp’s oil production, reducing dryness and flakiness that can lead to dandruff.

Guest-Size PackagingSmall guest-size soap bars can help you expand your soap making endeavor. You could sell them so new customers can try your soap, give them away as samples to your best customers, gift them to house guests (who will hopefully spread the word about your business) or wholesale them to local inns. Whichever avenue fits your soaping venture, you'll want quality packaging. Professional packaging speaks louder than just pretty wrappings. It tells your customers and friends that you are serious about your soap making, and taking necessary steps to research the handmade industry. Here are some tips for packaging guest-size bars of cold process soap.

Did you know that not all soap is exempt from FDA regulation as a cosmetic? The FDA Cosmetic exemption for soap is very, very specific and it is much more than just naming a bar of soap "soap".