Getting Started: Make Simple Bar of Melt & Pour Soap

Soap Base - For more information on soap bases, read Getting Started: Choosing a Melt & Pour Soap Base
Colorant - For more information on colorants, read Getting Started: Coloring Melt & Pour Soap Base
Scent
Other Additives

Double Boiler Setup: You can use a Pyrex glass measuring container or a stainless steel pitcher set inside a pot of boiling water to melt your soap. Using a double boiler setup ensures that your MP Soap Base is not overheated during the melting process and not too much water is evaporated out.

Stirring Utensil: A silicone spatula works well but you can use a large wooden craft stick, a metal spoon or any other high-heat mixing utensil.

Digital Scale: A scale is needed to weigh your soap base and scent.

Thermometer - A thermometer is needed to take the temperature of your melted soap base. You can use a candy thermometer or an infrared thermometer. Be aware that an infrared thermometer takes the surface temperature, so you will need to stir the soap before you take the temperature.

Soap Mold - You’ll need to decide on a soapmaking mold. Click Here to view soap molds.

Spray Bottle with Rubbing Alcohol - Alcohol is needed to pop bubbles after you pour your soap into the mold. A fine-mist sprayer is recommended to control the mist. We recommend using Isopropyl Rubbing Alcohol. Click Here for Bottles. Click Here for Sprayer Tops.

Step 1: Cut your soap base into small 1” cube sized pieces.

Step 2: Put the cubed soap into a double boiler and melt, stirring occasionally. Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature, as you don’t want it to overheat. The melt point of most MP Soap Base is 115°-125°F. You never want to let your base get hotter than 30°F above the melt point as many issues can arise including dehydration, soap bloom and brittleness. A good range is 145°-155°F. This will allow you time to color, fragrance and pour your soap without it hardening before you have time to do so.

Step 3: Remove your melted soap base from the double boiler. Once your soap cools to about 140°F, add your scent, color and any additives that you want to use. Stir well to incorporate.

Step 4: Pour your soap into molds. The ideal pour temperature is 140°F. If you are doing a layered soap or