tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-43178052992164942742024-03-13T13:34:15.763-04:00Soapsessed!meghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814389888748942067noreply@blogger.comBlogger26125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4317805299216494274.post-72143979179228338482009-10-26T21:44:00.001-04:002009-10-26T21:44:25.921-04:00Consolidating...Did you know I run upwards of 3 blogs? Most of them irregularly?<br /><br />Let's consolidate... <a href="http://www.metropolisbody.com/blog/">here</a>meghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814389888748942067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4317805299216494274.post-72910375248478474402009-09-07T22:00:00.002-04:002009-09-07T22:01:45.064-04:00Soap of the Week: Dirt Soap by The Pig and the Peacock<div style="margin-left: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/pigandpeacock/3124997019/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3195/3124997019_7472c22c2a_m.jpg" alt="" style="border: 2px solid rgb(0, 0, 0);" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-top: 0px;font-size:0.9em;" ><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/pigandpeacock/3124997019/">Dirt Soap</a></span><br /><span style="margin-top: 0px;font-size:0.9em;" >Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/pigandpeacock/">The Pig and the Peacock Handmade Gifts</a></span></div></div><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br /><br /><br />How do you pick your Soap of the Week?</span><br />SotWs are selected from three groups of flickr pools that I am on: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/76826188@N00/">Cold Processed Soap</a>, <a href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/60409913@N00/">Handmade Soap</a>, and <a href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/soapgroup/">Soap</a>. Each week I randomly select which pool to search through and find a striking soap to feature. The picture is usually professionally done, the colors are attractive, and the scent sounds desirable. Also, it has to be able to be blogged so if you post to those groups and you'd like me to take a look please make sure your privacy settings allow for the image to be blogged!</span>meghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814389888748942067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4317805299216494274.post-76806748511995177532009-09-03T03:33:00.002-04:002009-09-03T03:48:17.119-04:00The Five: Me!Woohoo, new feature! Soon I'll be posting some little features on soap artisans that sell their work all over the world...but just as a little teaser (and to get to know a little about me!) I decided to be the first guinea pig!<br /><br />My name is <span style="font-weight: bold;">Megan!</span><br />You can buy my stuff at <a href="http://www.metropolisbody.com">Metropolis Soap Co.</a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">How did you first get started?</span> I got started doing this as a sidenote, actually. I was making jewelry 6 years ago and decided that since I could make jewelry I could do it all! (HA.) I got a lipbalm-making kit from Michaels and caught the bug right then. I stopped making jewelry and got into some small-time bodycare stuff...basic melt and pour soaps, simple body scrub and butter recipes, etc.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">How did your first soap turn out?</span> My real first soap was pretty idiot-proof so it went well. Got some M&P base, liquid colorant, fragrance oil, and plastic soap mold from a craft store called Pat Catans. It wasn't anything special but I couldn't believe I made soap! My first cold process soap (many years later) ew, it was AWFUL. I made it with some rootbeer fragrance oil I had gotten on ebay and tried to do a brown swirl...I used too much mica and ruined my friends washcloth! Plus it sweat everywhere. Ugh!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Do you remember your first sale?</span> I remember my first sale ever: I sold a duct tape rose to a little girl who asked her mom for $1 to buy it. I don't remember my first M&P sale. My first Cold Process soap sold was to another vendor at a show!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Who has been a big influence in your craft?</span> I have a lot of friends who also make soap and I like to bounce ideas off of them. One girl, named Lela (of Naturally Lela, but I think she might have closed) I met at my first craft show when I was still making jewelry. She gave me 2 of her lip balms to try and they were great! The next show (about 6 months later) I saw her when I was making simple b&b stuff, and she congratulated me for joining her side and gave me ANOTHER lip balm! I still can't believe it to this day...on one hand I wasn't any competition because I wasn't making things at her level, but on the other hand I was still another competitor! Lela showed me that this is a community and there is no need for negativity or to be closed-off, even when you're dealing with direct competitors!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">What advice would YOU give someone who wanted to sell soap? </span>Start SLOWLY. I didn't and that was really stupid. I had to learn as I went and that is never a good idea. Don't sell right away, give yourself time to learn and grow as a chemist (it is chemistry, after all!). Don't be afraid to use preservatives, they're made for a reason. Ask questions, accept critiques, and be graceful. You never know who is going to become a customer!meghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814389888748942067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4317805299216494274.post-12971270064882999842009-09-03T01:05:00.005-04:002009-09-03T01:15:53.552-04:00SoapSpaces: Skye of Elysium Bath and BodySkye from <a href="http://elysiumb.com.au/">Elysium Bath and Body</a> is celebrating the opening of her new SoapSpace and invited us in to take a look. Congratulations!!!!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_koKFJrlcvI8/Sp9QrsxggKI/AAAAAAAAAB4/24Z2-qjF1T0/s1600-h/Production+bench.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 239px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_koKFJrlcvI8/Sp9QrsxggKI/AAAAAAAAAB4/24Z2-qjF1T0/s400/Production+bench.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377105191787069602" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Your space is <span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">100sqm (1000sq feet) and has soap production, cutting, drying and wrapping areas, office, dispatch and storage and a spare room for the kids with TV, chairs, toys and games for when I work in the school holidays</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><br />It's located<span style="font-weight: bold;"> 20 minutes from home, I catch a car ferry across the harbor, a lovely way to go to work.</span><br />Your favorite find<span style="font-weight: bold;"> is stainless steel benches, brand new and half price at auction.</span><br />I've had my soapspace for <span style="font-weight: bold;">one month now, so it is still new and exciting</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_koKFJrlcvI8/Sp9QY0oG29I/AAAAAAAAABw/THpVzopvAsU/s1600-h/IMG_3099.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: right; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_koKFJrlcvI8/Sp9QY0oG29I/AAAAAAAAABw/THpVzopvAsU/s400/IMG_3099.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377104867477609426" border="0" /></a><br />Do you keep anything around for inspiration? <span style="font-weight: bold;">I have a lot of soap and aromatherapy books, soaps from swaps and gifts and an ideas folder for when I need shake myself out of a rut.</span><br />Do you like to have anything on in the background while you work? <span style="font-weight: bold;">The radio on quietly</span><br />How often do you visit your soapspace? <span style="font-weight: bold;">Every week day (5 days a week)</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span>Is your soapspace a public or private place? <span style="font-weight: bold;">It is my own space, but I expect clients will visit from time to time.</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_koKFJrlcvI8/Sp9QCjpj0WI/AAAAAAAAABo/PTZ9VjE4lsc/s1600-h/IMG_3089.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_koKFJrlcvI8/Sp9QCjpj0WI/AAAAAAAAABo/PTZ9VjE4lsc/s400/IMG_3089.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377104484963176802" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Thanks, Skye! Be sure to visit <a href="http://elysiumb.com.au/">Elysium Bath and Body</a> to check out all of the great stuff Skye is making in her new digs.meghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814389888748942067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4317805299216494274.post-21371491133675710002009-09-03T00:48:00.003-04:002009-09-03T00:51:27.404-04:00Soap of the Week: Pink Grapefruit by A Breath of French Air<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/16196716@N08/3866303316/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2617/3866303316_20cbbcdf83_m.jpg" alt="" style="border: 2px solid rgb(0, 0, 0);" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-top: 0px;font-size:0.9em;" ><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/16196716@N08/3866303316/">Pink Grapefruit</a></span><br /><span style="margin-top: 0px;font-size:0.9em;" >Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/16196716@N08/">abreathoffrenchair</a></span><br /></div><br /><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">How do you pick your Soap of the Week?</span><br />SotWs are selected from three groups of flickr pools that I am on: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/76826188@N00/">Cold Processed Soap</a>, <a href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/60409913@N00/">Handmade Soap</a>, and <a href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/soapgroup/">Soap</a>. Each week I randomly select which pool to search through and find a striking soap to feature. The picture is usually professionally done, the colors are attractive, and the scent sounds desirable. Also, it has to be able to be blogged so if you post to those groups and you'd like me to take a look please make sure your privacy settings allow for the image to be blogged!</span>meghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814389888748942067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4317805299216494274.post-74242015278017101002009-08-27T18:42:00.006-04:002009-08-27T18:57:11.183-04:00SoapSpaces: Debbie of Soapylove!Yes, the genius <a href="http://www.soapylove.com/">Debbie Chialtas of Soapylove</a> graciously opened up her home to us to show off her SoapSpace! She is living proof that SoapSpaces come in all sizes... you don't need a huge soapspace to make it big...you can use your diningroom table!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_koKFJrlcvI8/SpcOnkFjUtI/AAAAAAAAABg/bmzzO5W_qYc/s1600-h/debbie3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 370px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_koKFJrlcvI8/SpcOnkFjUtI/AAAAAAAAABg/bmzzO5W_qYc/s400/debbie3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5374780753154626258" border="0" /></a><br />Your space is <span style="font-weight: bold;"> the kitchen and dinner table</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">I work on new designs and tutorial projects in my kitchen and on the di</span><span style="font-weight: bold;">nner table. </span><br />It's located <span style="font-weight: bold;">in our little condo in San Diego</span><br />Your favorite find is <span style="font-weight: bold;">my 9" square silicone brownie pan with a super glossy surface. It's my workhorse!</span><br />I've had my soapspace for <span style="font-weight: bold;">over 4 years but we're moving to a house this weekend! </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">Yahoo! </span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_koKFJrlcvI8/SpcOfwGN3pI/AAAAAAAAABQ/GmMnvk552iA/s1600-h/debbie1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_koKFJrlcvI8/SpcOfwGN3pI/AAAAAAAAABQ/GmMnvk552iA/s400/debbie1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5374780618939686546" border="0" /></a><br />Do you keep anything around for inspiration? <span style="font-weight: bold;">Yes, I have a collection of supplies and little things I want to try "someday." I mainly collect photos and catalogs of details or ideas I like, though. </span><br />Do you like to have anything on in the background while you work? <span style="font-weight: bold;">No, I find music </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">distracting when I'm working. Either it's too fast or too slow - I'd rather just have peace and quiet since that's very rare for me. I have a 4 yr old and 1 1/2 yr old, so you can imagine the chaos!</span><br />How often do you visit your soapspace? <span style="font-weight: bold;">Constantly, but I wish I had a dedicated soap space. That would be amazing! </span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_koKFJrlcvI8/SpcOkIlIOTI/AAAAAAAAABY/PAoy4Yd1XZ8/s1600-h/debbie2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_koKFJrlcvI8/SpcOkIlIOTI/AAAAAAAAABY/PAoy4Yd1XZ8/s400/debbie2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5374780694231267634" border="0" /></a><br />Is your soapspace a public or private place? <span style="font-weight: bold;">My kitchen is very public - the family is in there constantly!<br /></span><br /><br />Thanks so much, Debbie! Please check out all Debbie has to offer: <a href="http://www.soapylove.com/">Her infamous Soapsicles and other M&P art</a>, and did you know she's also an incredibly talented author who <a href="http://www.soapylove.com/learn.html">sends out M&P e-zines</a> and will soon be <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1600611702?ie=UTF8&tag=soutgirl-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1600611702">releasing a book!</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=soutgirl-20&l=as2&o=1&a=1600611702" alt="" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important;" width="1" border="0" height="1" /><br />How fun is that?<br />-------------------------------<br />Want to show off your SoapSpace? Post it to our flickr group:<a href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/soapspaces/"> SoapSpaces</a>meghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814389888748942067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4317805299216494274.post-89643607798198582542009-08-25T23:32:00.003-04:002009-08-25T23:39:58.421-04:00Etsy 6 Picks: Patchouli!Patchouli is a great scent; it's a base for many perfume and blends wonderfully with many other scents. Here's 6 picks that show how versatile patchouli can be!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_koKFJrlcvI8/SpStBraoifI/AAAAAAAAABI/ajYCfWEa_X4/s1600-h/patchouli.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_koKFJrlcvI8/SpStBraoifI/AAAAAAAAABI/ajYCfWEa_X4/s400/patchouli.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5374110499705752050" border="0" /></a><br /><br />1. <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=25966948" target="new">Chocolate Patchouli</a> by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5002306" target="new">the Soap Nut</a><br />2. <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=29621847" target="new">Patchouli with Sandalwood Powder and Calendula Petals</a> by <a href="http://solsticescents.etsy.com/" target="new">Solstice Scents</a><br />3. <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=16502162" target="new">Patchouli Grapefruit</a> by <a href="http://luckylather.etsy.com/" target="new">Lucky Lather</a><br />4. <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=21150733" target="new">Patchouli and Cedarwood</a> by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5974804" target="new">Sweet Sallys Soaps</a><br />5. <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=11878501" target="new">Patchouli Rose</a> by <a href="http://faeriemadesoaps.etsy.com/" target="new">Faerie Made Soaps</a><br />6. <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=28021848" target="new">Patchouli, Fir Needle, Tangerine, and Oakmoss (Gentlemens Club)</a> by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5227412" target="new">Morgan Street</a>meghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814389888748942067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4317805299216494274.post-31218575877579826712009-08-24T13:46:00.001-04:002009-08-24T13:46:39.921-04:00Soap of the Week: Lime Cilantro<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/27787767@N07/3846976857/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2461/3846976857_ddb104a3f8_m.jpg" alt="" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: 0.9em; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/27787767@N07/3846976857/">Lime Cilantro cut pic</a><br />Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/27787767@N07/">littlebitsoapworks</a></span></div><br clear="all" />meghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814389888748942067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4317805299216494274.post-38560388603135865642009-08-14T00:19:00.002-04:002009-08-14T00:19:42.999-04:00Soap of the Week: Sweet Ambra<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/annia316/3717390219/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2665/3717390219_15bbe9c4cc_m.jpg" alt="" style="border: 2px solid rgb(0, 0, 0);" /></a><br /><span style="margin-top: 0px;font-size:0;" ><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/annia316/3717390219/">Sweet Ambra soap</a><br />Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/annia316/">annia316</a></span></div>meghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814389888748942067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4317805299216494274.post-77686691790824127562009-08-12T15:40:00.003-04:002009-08-12T15:52:34.519-04:00SoapSpaces: Irena of Gingers Garden!The incredible and super-helpful Irena of <a href="http://www.gingersgarden.com/" target="new">Gingers Garden</a> opened up her SoapSpace for us to drool over!<br />---------------------------------<br />My space is <span style="font-weight: bold;">a sealed off former formal living room.</span><br />It's located <span style="font-weight: bold;">in my house.</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3561/3815763748_3ec465084b.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 339px; height: 468px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3561/3815763748_3ec465084b.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />My favorite find is<span style="font-weight: bold;"> my curing racks that I found at a restaurant supply that was going out of business.</span><br />I've had my soapspace for <span style="font-weight: bold;">12 years here in the desert. Before that I've had a retail space and a studio in Santa Barbara.</span><br />Do you keep anything around for inspiration? <span style="font-weight: bold;">I keep my mother's handmade soap as a reminder how much harder it was for her to make soaps then. It's a little shop worn, but it's still a good soap.</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2569/3814952883_630a2ec056.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 324px; height: 500px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2569/3814952883_630a2ec056.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />Do you like to have anything on in the background while you work? <span style="font-weight: bold;">Techno and Adult Contemporary music keep my pace up.</span><br />How often do you visit your soapspace? <span style="font-weight: bold;">I go to my soap space at least once a day. On soapmaking or shipping days much more than that.</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2640/3815763786_3535706286.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 319px; height: 467px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2640/3815763786_3535706286.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Is your soapspace a public or private place?<span style="font-weight: bold;"> My soap space is mostly private. I did let my mail lady and my USPS man come and choose a soap of their liking in thanks for their help over the years.</span><br /><br />Thanks, Irena! Be sure to check out her incredible selection of products...you'll definitely be able to find something there for everyone! <a href="http://www.gingersgarden.com/" target="new">Gingers Garden</a><br />--------------------------------------<br />Want to show off your SoapSpace? Post it to our flickr group: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/soapspaces">SoapSpaces</a>meghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814389888748942067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4317805299216494274.post-70789052472057136152009-08-11T21:14:00.006-04:002009-08-11T21:25:04.471-04:00Etsy 6 Picks: Absinthe!I stumbled across an absinthe bar on etsy a couple of weeks ago randomly. I thought it was such a cool concept I should see if anyone else makes absinthe soap...turns out some do! There aren't many on etsy that make it, so consider this weeks Etsy 6 Picks your guide to absinthe soap on etsy!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_koKFJrlcvI8/SoIXxqGAIvI/AAAAAAAAAAg/g-_QkED3CDU/s1600-h/absinthe.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_koKFJrlcvI8/SoIXxqGAIvI/AAAAAAAAAAg/g-_QkED3CDU/s400/absinthe.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5368879847659545330" border="0" /></a><br /><br />1. <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=29105723" target="new">Dracula Soap Bar</a> by <a href="http://artspot.etsy.com/" target="new">Art Spot</a><br />2. <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=28471239" target="new">The Green Fairy</a> by <a href="http://spartasoap.etsy.com/" target="new">Sparta Soap</a><br />3. <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=29164171" target="new">All Natural Absinthe Soap</a> by <a href="http://sweetolivesoapworks.etsy.com/" target="new">Sweet Olive Soapworks</a><br />4. <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=28976830" target="new">Absinthe, Soft Mint, Lemon Balm, and Wormwood</a> by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6016058" target="new">Gloi</a><br />5. <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=26587952" target="new">Absinthe Glycerin Soap</a> by <a href="http://amandalouise.etsy.com/" target="new">Squeaky Queen</a><br />6. <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=14160826" target="new">A Fistful of Yorick</a> by <a href="http://dugshop.etsy.com/" target="new">dugshop</a>meghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814389888748942067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4317805299216494274.post-44154772134413481192009-08-07T20:43:00.002-04:002009-08-07T20:47:36.043-04:00Weekend Homework: Rose Moisturizer<span style="font-style: italic;">Every Friday I'll post an easy DIY beauty recipe for you to try over the weekend. Good luck!</span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"><br />Rose Moisturizer</span><br /><p>1 cup water<br />1/2 cup fresh red rose petals<br />1 cup liquid glycerin (available at drugstores)<br />1 tablespoon aloe vera juice (available at health food stores)<br />16 oz. empty bottle</p> <p>In a small saucepan, heat water and rose petals just until boiling. Let the rose water cool, then strain out the petals.</p> <p>Pour rose water into your bottle. Then, pour in glycerin and aloe vera juice. Place the cap on your bottle securely and shake well to blend.</p> Store your moisturizer in the fridge. Shake gently before each use. Try to avoid getting it in your eyes when applying to your face. This recipe does not have a long shelf life so use soon!meghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814389888748942067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4317805299216494274.post-82253311878264846172009-08-05T23:12:00.003-04:002009-08-05T23:13:53.180-04:00Weekly SpecialsOnce a week I like to bring you specials and deals from soap companies online. Here's this weeks list of specials:<br />-----------------------------<br /><a href="http://www.vibrantnaturals.com/" target="new">Vibrant Naturals</a> is having a special on their Spring Blossom Bath Formula with Dead Sea Saltmeghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814389888748942067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4317805299216494274.post-23291515444670205402009-08-04T19:39:00.003-04:002009-08-04T19:56:40.333-04:00SoapSpaces: Ann of Millstream Cottage CraftsOur first SoapSpace interview is by Ann of <a href="http://www.millstreamcrafts.com/">Millstream Cottage Crafts </a> who graciously opened up her basement studio to us!<br />---------------------------------<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3419/3789788833_509c20f938.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 500px; height: 333px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3419/3789788833_509c20f938.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />Your SoapSpace is <span style="font-weight: bold;">basement</span><br />It's located <span style="font-weight: bold;">in my home</span><br />I've had it for <span style="font-weight: bold;">almost 11 months</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2455/3789788875_4a037cafee.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 500px; height: 366px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2455/3789788875_4a037cafee.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />Do you keep anything around for inspiration? <span style="font-weight: bold;">Not re</span><span style="font-weight: bold;">ally. Inspiration comes from seeing product on the shelf.</span><br />Do you like to have anything on in the background while you work? <span style="font-weight: bold;">I usually have the radio on set to CBC (Canadian Broadcasting Corporation) FM1</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3513/3789788917_044f2ec89f.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 500px; height: 333px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3513/3789788917_044f2ec89f.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />How often do you visit your soapspace? <span style="font-weight: bold;"> Daily</span><br />Is your soapspace a public or private place?<span style="font-weight: bold;">It depends...on how friendly I am with the person, and how messy it is at the time.</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2669/3790602824_6f56c96395.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 500px; height: 333px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2669/3790602824_6f56c96395.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />Thanks so much, Ann! Her space is drool-worthy, isn't it? Be sure to visit her website, <a href="http://www.millstreamcrafts.com/">www.millstreamcrafts.com</a><br />--------------------------<br />Want to share off your soapspace? Post pics to our Flickr group: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/soapspaces/">SoapSpaces</a>meghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814389888748942067noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4317805299216494274.post-91664965159163852832009-08-03T15:25:00.001-04:002009-08-03T15:25:49.332-04:00Wanna be featured?There's some opportunities to be featured that are listed on Soapsesseds <a href=http://www.twitter.com/soapsessed target=new>twitter</a> so make sure to follow it!meghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814389888748942067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4317805299216494274.post-73754683669649229402009-08-03T12:07:00.000-04:002009-08-03T12:07:40.020-04:00Soap of the Week: Earth Flower<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/spiraltreesoap/3655344880/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3404/3655344880_c73e88a4f3_m.jpg" alt="" style="border: 2px solid rgb(0, 0, 0);" /></a><br /><span style="margin-top: 0px;font-size:0;" ><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/spiraltreesoap/3655344880/">Earth Flower Soap Bar</a><br />Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/spiraltreesoap/">SpiralTreeSoap</a></span></div>By <a href="http://spiraltreesoap.etsy.com/" target="new">Spiral Tree Soap</a>meghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814389888748942067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4317805299216494274.post-72657022672333435652009-08-02T21:56:00.006-04:002009-08-02T22:19:40.868-04:00Learn! Cream Soap<a href="http://www.gingersgarden.com/" target="new">Irena</a>, soaper extraordinaire, gently reminded me that I had forgotten a popular type of soap: Cream Soap!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_koKFJrlcvI8/SnZJJK3JQqI/AAAAAAAAAAM/NbgYfGDI-yw/s1600-h/Shaving+Cream+Soap+Almond.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 296px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_koKFJrlcvI8/SnZJJK3JQqI/AAAAAAAAAAM/NbgYfGDI-yw/s320/Shaving+Cream+Soap+Almond.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365556427941823138" border="0" /></a><br /><br />What is Cream Soap?<br /><i>Cream soap is a combination of solid and liquid soap. It is made with both sodium and potassium hydroxide. It has a creamy texture and can be whipped into a souffle like consistency if desired. It has also been compared to fresh whipped cream or a thick pudding. It can be used as a facial soap to clean away make-up or as a shaving soap with a brush for men with additional ingredients. Can be applied by hand or with a wash cloth.</i>meghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814389888748942067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4317805299216494274.post-26184526206345165522009-08-02T20:08:00.001-04:002009-08-02T20:09:05.366-04:00Woohoo!We're now on Twitter, so come and <a href=http://twitter.com/soapsessed target=new>Follow Soapsessed!</a>meghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814389888748942067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4317805299216494274.post-68343467234156884542009-08-02T19:29:00.003-04:002009-08-02T22:05:33.033-04:00Etsy 6 Picks: Rethinking LavenderAlmost every soap company has a lavender soap; its tried and true scent makes it a sure-sell. But all of the lavender soaps can get so boring and overdone, so this weeks Etsy 6 Picks have rethought lavender and made it something fresh!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3425/3783211414_ca3c6d63e9_o.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3425/3783211414_ca3c6d63e9_o.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>1. <a href=http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=28408292 target=new>Lavender, Orange, and Ginger</a> by <a href=http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6258755 target=new>De Shawn Marie</a><br />2. <a href=http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=28708218 target=new>Lavender Patchouli</a> by <a href=http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5462267 target=new>Zozca</a><br />3. <a href=http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=28599515 target=new>Lavender Eucalyptus</a> by <a href=http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=7435475 target=new>Dauns Soap and Such</a><br />4. <a href=http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=28624508 target=new>Renegade (Bergamont, Geranium, Lavender, Cedarwood, and Oak)</a> by <a href=http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5515709 target=new>Ten Digit Creations</a><br />5. <a href=http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=28579742 target=new>Lavender Cedarwood</a> by <a href=http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=20548 target=new>Shower Treat Soap</a><br />6. <a href=http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=22922573 target=new>Lavender Chocolate</a> by <a href=http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=3293 target=new>Flowering Tree Botanicals</a>meghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814389888748942067noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4317805299216494274.post-6252614641367145272009-07-14T22:24:00.001-04:002009-07-14T22:24:03.055-04:00Soap of the Week<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/soapmarket/2689360191/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3166/2689360191_1326a4ee02_m.jpg" alt="" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: 0.9em; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/soapmarket/2689360191/">soap_12</a><br />Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/soapmarket/">soapmaker</a></span></div>Don't know the scent, but it looks gorgeous!<br clear="all" />meghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814389888748942067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4317805299216494274.post-15521201273104949012009-07-05T14:25:00.002-04:002009-07-06T10:38:18.668-04:00Stuff in soap: CharcoalActivated charcoal makes for some gorgeous black soap, but other than the color whats so great about charcoal?<br /><br />Charcoal can absorb toxins and excess oil from the surface layer of skin. It can also help to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. The lather of these soaps can range from light grey to black depending on how much charcoal is used in the soaps. It can also be used straight as a colorant in the soap:<br /><center><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/disquietingdesigns/3634088622/" title="brooklyn by metropolisbody, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2242/3634088622_f62fcdf020.jpg" alt="brooklyn" width="500" height="345"></a><br /><br /><font size="2">Brooklyn Soap by <a href="http://www.metropolisbody.com/" target="new">Metropolis</a></font></center><br /><br />Or as a swirl color:<br /><center><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3057/3409405700_4699c4115d.jpg"><br /><br /><font size="2">Charcoal Soap by <a href="http://www.blogger.com/betweenfriends.etsy.com" target="new">Between Friends</a></font><br /></center>meghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814389888748942067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4317805299216494274.post-27001677480902432632009-07-05T14:21:00.001-04:002009-07-05T14:21:23.269-04:00Soap of the Week: Badedas by ZAJA Natural<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/zajanatural/2592395925/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3142/2592395925_839d9b89b0_m.jpg" alt="" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: 0.9em; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/zajanatural/2592395925/">Badedas Soap</a><br />Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/zajanatural/">ZAJA Natural & The Beer Soap Company</a></span></div><br clear="all" />meghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814389888748942067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4317805299216494274.post-69752768320617513722009-07-04T23:21:00.007-04:002009-09-03T02:27:29.342-04:00Sponsor our blog!<p>Advertise your soap, handmade, indie, or blog website on Soapsessed! We post about handmade soap, products, recipes, as well as interviews with soap artisans. This blog targets not only buyers of handmade soap, but the soap artisans, as well. We welcome supply websites to advertise on our blog.</p>Images can be static or animated. Please, no flash.<br /><br />There are three levels of advertising: <span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />Super Sponsor!</span> which is a 200x200 image + link to your website posted at the top right of the blog.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sponsor! </span>which is 150x100 image + link to your website posted along the right side of the blog.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Giveaway!</span> Please see below for information<br /><br /><p>Our tiers are below:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Super Sponsor! </span>(1 spot available)<br /></p><p> Includes: Your banner posted exclusively in the Super Sponsor! box and a blog post featuring your company.<br /><b>2 weeks of advertising $15.00<br /><br />1 month advertising $25.00</b><br /></p><br /><p><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Sponsor!</span> level (multiple spots available)<br />Includes: Your banner ad in rotation, your companys info/link included on our bi-weekly sponsor post.<br /><b>2 weeks of advertising: $5.00<br /><br />1 month of advertising: $10.00</b></p><p><br /></p><br /><br /><br />--------------------<span style="font-weight: bold;">Sponsor a Giveaway!</span>------------------------<br />We also are happy to have to opportunity to have a more affordable solution: giveaways! Soapsessed is happy to advertise your company by promoting an item you produce in a weekly giveaway. We will promote this not only on our blog, but on various prize blogs ensuring that you receive the maximum amount of exposure. On top of your giveaway post, we will direct readers to your website and will post reminders throughout the duration of your giveaway.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><i>To advertise or sponsor a giveaway please contact Megan at soapsessed@gmail.com</i>meghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814389888748942067noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4317805299216494274.post-33854878873654068092009-06-23T18:56:00.005-04:002009-06-23T19:46:41.616-04:00Types of soap<span style="font-family: verdana;font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:100%;" >There are a number of ways soap is created by hand...here are a rundown of the most popular techniques:<br /><br /><b>Cold Process</b><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/disquietingdesigns/3634089046/" title="als fruit stand by metropolisbody, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3611/3634089046_6ae8810915_m.jpg" alt="als fruit stand" width="240" height="179" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: verdana;font-size:78%;" ><span style=";font-size:100%;" ><i><span style="font-size:85%;">Al's Fruit Stand by <a href="http://www.metropolisbody.com/" target="new">Metropolis</a></span><br /><br /></i></span><span style=";font-size:100%;" >Cold Process is the method that is most popular by seasoned soapers. It involves using lye and a combination of oils and fats to create the process of Saponification, or turning the oils into soap! The fresh soap must cure for a period of 4-6 weeks before being used safely. This method allows for a number of artistic designs and can be vegan or use tallow and/or lard.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >Hot Process</span><br /><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3324/3453807171_75b09e071f_m.jpg" /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:85%;" >Tangerine Pomegranate Soap by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5901553" target="new">Soapy Blessings</a></span><br /><br /><span style=";font-size:100%;" >Hot Process is the oldest method of soap, dating back to the middle ages! It involves using lye and a combination of oils and fats, but unlike Cold Process it involves using heat to speed up saponification, usually resulting in ready-to-use soap! It has a different texture than Cold Process because the soap solidifies so quickly that it usually has to be "glopped" into the molds. This method is a little less giving than cold process, but some have been able to create beautiful artisan soaps using Hot Process.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >Melt and Pour</span><br /><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3169/2722412983_9746134e52_m.jpg" /><br /><span style=";font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;">Floating Dots Soap by </span><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://soapylove.blogspot.com/" target="new">Soapy Love</a></span><br /><br /><span style=";font-size:100%;" >Melt and Pour is created by melting down a soap-like base, adding colorants and additives, then pouring into molds. The soap is usually ready to use as soon as it cools. Melt and Pour is usually how a lot of artisans get into soap-making because it's very easy to use. It is great for starters but there are some really advanced techniques that lend to some highly advanced artistic soaps.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >Whipped Soap</span><br /><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2271/2397595263_6483b6d17f_m.jpg" /><br /><span style=";font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;">Lemon Sugar Creme Soap by </span><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5250593" target="new">Cozy Moments</a></span><br /><br /><span style=";font-size:100%;" >Whipped soap, like melt and pour, comes from a base and involves adding coloring and fragrance then glopping into containers. Whipped soap is pretty fun and there are some great layering techniques that can be used.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >Liquid Soap</span><br /><img style="width: 247px; height: 247px;" src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_430xN.74160296.jpg" /><br /><span style=";font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;">Spring Blossom Liquid Soap by </span><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=7481345" target="new">Vibrant Naturals</a></span><br /><br /><span style=";font-size:100%;" >Handmade Liquid Soap can be created either from a base like Melt and Pour, or from a process similar to Cold Process soaps involving oils and a form of lye called Potassium Hydroxide. Since it's liquid it has little give for artistic variations, but it can be colored and fragranced.</span><br /></span>meghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814389888748942067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4317805299216494274.post-81281741472965151112009-06-23T18:16:00.001-04:002009-06-23T18:26:53.948-04:00So you wanna be a soapie?A Soapie is a special contributor to the blog who sends us fantastic stories/interviews/pics/whatever!<br /><br />Here's what we're looking for on the blog:<br /><B>Soap Shops</b> - Got a review of a little soap boutique in your area? Send us pics and some info!<br /><br /><B>Interviews</b> - Know of a soaper who makes fantastic art soaps? Send us pics and an interview!<br /><br /><B>Projects/Techniques</b> - Got a great tutorial for a bath/beauty project or want to update us on the newest soaping technique? Send us the info with some pics!<br /><br />We'll of course be happy to give you credit and link to your super-fantastic website or blog.<br /><br />Send all submissions to <I>soapsessed@gmail.com</i>meghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814389888748942067noreply@blogger.com0