Handmade (Vegan) Soap
Creating cold-process soap can be fulfilling, but safety should always take precedence. Below, we’ve included a step-by-step outline intended solely for educational purposes only, highlighting the ingredients used and the general soap production process. This information thrives on elevating the standards for the ingredient list and labeling on the soap we offer for sale. As part of our commitment to transparency, we believe that the composition of our products should remain accessible to the public. Handling soap involves handling potentially hazardous substances like lye, so adhering to proper safety measures is crucial. If you are new to soap-making, starting with the Melt & Pour method is advisable.
Tools and Safety Equipment:
Safety goggles
Gloves
Long-sleeved clothing
Well-ventilated workspace
Digital scale
Heat-resistant containers
Stick blender
Silicone spatulas
Soap mold
Thermometer
Plastic wrap or towels
pH test strips (optional)
Ingredients:
Canola oil: 8.44 oz (12.5%)
Castor oil: 5 oz (7%)
Coconut oil: 20 oz (30%)
Rice Bran oil: 5.4 oz (25%)
Olive Oil: 5.4 oz (8%)
Shea butter: 8.44 oz (12.5%)
Jojoba oil: 3.4 oz (5%)
Water: 23.46 oz
Lye (sodium hydroxide): 9.12 oz
Optional: Sodium lactate 4.25 teaspoons (recommended for harder bars)
Optional: Up to 6 oz of essential or fragrance oil
Remember that making soap involves working with lye, which can be caustic. Follow all safety precautions and guidelines for handling lye and working with soap ingredients. This is for educational purposes only and for grasping a better understanding of the products we offer. This is Palm Oil FREE!
Safety Precautions:
Wear protective clothing, including safety goggles and gloves.
Work in a well-ventilated area.
Keep vinegar or another neutralizing agent nearby in case of accidental lye contact on skin.
Prepare the Workspace:
Clear a clean, flat surface for soap-making.
Ensure all necessary tools and ingredients are within easy reach.
Instructions:
Measure Oils and Butters:
Use a digital scale to measure out the Canola oil, Castor oil, Coconut oil, Rice Bran oil, Shea butter, and Jojoba oil. Combine these oils in a heat-resistant container.
Prepare the Lye Solution:
Measure the water using a digital scale and pour it into a heat-resistant container.
Measure the lye separately and carefully add it to the water while stirring gently. Always add lye to water, never the other way around. The mixture will heat up and release fumes, so keep your face away from the container.
Allow the lye solution to cool down to around 100-110°F (37-43°C) while stirring occasionally.
Combine Oils and Lye Solution:
Ensure both the lye solution and oils are around 100-110°F (37-43°C).
Slowly pour the lye solution into the oils while stirring with a stick blender.
Blend to Trace:
Use the stick blender to mix the oils and lye solution until you reach a thin trace. This is the point at which the mixture starts to thicken.
Add Essential or Fragrance Oil:
If desired, add up to 6 tablespoons of essential or fragrance oil to the soap mixture. Stir well to incorporate.
Optional: Add Sodium Lactate:
If using, add the recommended amount of sodium lactate to the mixture and stir well.
7. Pour into Mold:
Pour the soap mixture into your soap mold. Tap the mold on the counter to eliminate air bubbles.
Cover the mold with plastic wrap or towels to insulate the soap and promote saponification. Keep the soap mold in a warm, undisturbed place for 24-48 hours.
8. Unmold and Cut into Bars:
After the initial 24-48 hours, the soap should be firm enough to unmold. Carefully remove it from the mold.
Use a sharp knife or soap cutter to slice the soap loaf into bars of your preferred size.
9. Curing Process:
Place the cut soap bars on a drying rack or tray in a well-ventilated area. Allow the soap to cure for about 4-6 weeks. This curing period allows excess moisture to evaporate, resulting in a harder, longer-lasting bar.
10. Test and Package:
After the curing period, you can test the soap's pH using pH test strips. A pH range of 8-10 is typical for well-cured soap.
Once you're satisfied with the soap's texture and pH, you can package and label the soap bars.
NurtureSoap.com score: 28% Lye Concentration with a 5% Super-fat
27 Bubbley
24 Creamy
38 Hardness
20 Cleansing
53 Conditioning
Unveiling the Soap and Bio Diesel Connection: Investigating Chandler Bio's Intriguing Expansion
In a follow-up to our exposé, Gylicern Unmasked, we've uncovered another compelling thread in the web of bio diesel and soap production. Our investigative team delved into the intriguing expansion of Chandler Bio, a seemingly innocuous enterprise that has transformed into a major player in the world of bio diesel and homemade soap supplies.
A Humble Beginnings
Chandler Bio, formerly known as Nebraska Bio Pro, traces its roots back to 2007 when the cost of diesel fuel prompted its founder, Norman McFarling, to explore more cost-effective alternatives for his service vehicle. A dedicated entrepreneur, McFarling embarked on the journey of producing bio diesel, capitalizing on his keen understanding of the chemical catalysts and processes involved. His motive was simple yet groundbreaking – to find a greener and more economical way to traverse the vast Midwest.
From Bulk Buying to Exponential Growth
McFarling's vision soon expanded beyond just personal use. Struggling to find the necessary supplies for his venture, he began buying in bulk and reselling essential components required for bio diesel production. Teaming up with one of the largest bio diesel platforms worldwide gave him the exposure needed to transform his enterprise from offering a mere 10 items to boasting an inventory of over 300 within a remarkably short span of time.
Yet, the remarkable twist in this tale emerged from the byproduct of McFarling's bio diesel operation – glycerin. This unassuming substance, often discarded as a mere byproduct, triggered his interest in crafting homemade soaps. McFarling's ingenuity saw potential where others saw waste, leading him to explore ways to transform glycerin into a high-quality soap base. By adding oils and fragrances, he managed to turn this once-neglected byproduct into a treasure trove of possibilities.
McFarling's journey didn't stop at basic soap production. He ventured into more advanced techniques, delving into cold process soaps that require intricate knowledge and precision. This exploration gave birth to a thriving business that not only provided bio diesel enthusiasts with essential materials but also catered to soap makers seeking high-quality supplies for their craft.
Today, Chandler Bio stands as a testament to McFarling's ingenuity and resourcefulness. Operating from Chandler, Arizona, the company thrives as a part of the Health Services sector, estimated to generate a substantial $1.7 million in annual revenues. Employing approximately nine individuals, it has evolved from a modest enterprise into a significant contributor to the local economy.
The Local Connection: Arizona Soap Supply
Connecting the dots, our investigation led us to an intriguing local connection – Arizona Soap Supply. Situated at 2050 N Alma School Rd Suite 27, Chandler, AZ, this establishment appears to play a pivotal role in the supply chain of Chandler Bio. Our sources indicate that Norman McFarling sources the products locally from this very entity.
If the online reviews on platforms like Yelp are any indication, Arizona Soap Supply is at the helm of the soap supply industry. The establishment, reportedly owned by the same Norman McFarling behind Chandler Bio, emerges as a crucial link that feeds into the web of bio diesel and soap production.
As we continue to peel back the layers of this intricate narrative, one can't help but be captivated by the fascinating journey of Norman McFarling and his brainchild, Chandler Bio. From a desperate need to cut fuel costs to creating a thriving business that bridges the gap between bio diesel and soap production, McFarling's story is a testament to human ingenuity and the untapped potential that often lies in unexpected places.
Our investigation into Chandler Bio's expansion doesn't end here. Stay tuned as we dive deeper into the entwined worlds of bio diesel and homemade soap, unraveling connections that might lead us to even more revelations about this remarkable enterprise.
If you're eager to delve deeper into the fascinating world of handmade soap, we’d like to invite you to visit 2050 N Alma School Rd, W Warner Rd #27, Chandler, AZ 85224. Discover all things soap!
In an online comment on Yelp.com, Norman discusses the commitment to customer support while acknowledging occasional logistics setbacks. Online dated 2/14/2021 he shared insights into the company's customer-oriented approach during a candid reply. Amidst the various challenges faced by businesses he emphasized their unwavering dedication to providing exceptional support to customers.
"We try to be as supportive to our customers as possible," Norman stated. "Sometimes logistics just won't work and we fail to meet expectations. Every business does."
He underscored the reality that even with meticulous planning, unforeseen issues can disrupt the smooth functioning of business operations. He acknowledged that logistical challenges occasionally arise, leading to situations where the business might fall short of meeting customer expectations.
However, the business owner was keen to point out that these instances are inherent in running a business and do not diminish their commitment to offering excellent customer service. Norman's perspective highlights the delicate balance businesses must strike between striving for excellence and navigating the practical complexities that can arise. While logistical hiccups are inevitable in any business, his dedication to customer satisfaction remains steadfast.
As Norman continues to steer his businesses through the dynamic landscape of commerce, his unwavering commitment to transparency, customer support, and open communication inspire fellow entrepreneurs facing similar challenges. Thank you.