Instructions for Making Cold Process Lye Soap

1. Gain a basic understanding of the theory.
2. Read the helpful hints.
3. Decide which ingredients to use.
4. Carefully measure and mix the oils.
5. Calculate the quantity of lye and water needed.
6. Mix the lye and water. Caution: this step is hazardous!
7. Carefully pour the lye solution into the oil solution and stir.
8. Add any desired special ingredients.
9. Age the soap in a covered container until it is stiff enough to cut (generally 1-2 weeks).
10. Cut the soap into bars.
11. Age the soap in the same covered container until it is stiff enough to remove the bars (another 1-2 weeks).
12. Remove the bars of soap and set them out to dry. You may need to cut them again.
13. Age the soap until it is hard enough to use. The total time should be at least six weeks. Many soap makers recommend that the soap be aged for a total of at least three months.

Note: If you find any of this set of pages difficult to understand, please send your questions to me. If you have any corrections or suggestions, please send email.