Frequently, I have people ask me how I learned to make my own soap. They are always surprised by my answer. I am a self-taught soap maker. I had no instruction other than that of a book. I learned the most by trial and error. A lot of error; but that is how one learns the best, by one's mistakes.

I had always been interested in soap making. It was something I had always wanted to try, but never had the time or the knowledge. Where would one even start?

For me, it started four years ago at a library when I found Sandy Maine's book, "Clean, Naturally". Although I learned basic soap-making knowledge from this book, it took me a long time before I had an acceptable bar of soap. My first few batches were dry and crumbly, yes, when I say crumbly I mean they were falling apart, literally. It was very discouraging; but it only made me more determined to succeed. 

I read every book I could find on the subject and to my surprise there were quite a few. I wanted so desperately to turn out a batch of soap that was smooth and soft, not dry and brittle. I wanted it to be moisturizing for my dry skin. I wanted it to have a thick, luxurious lather and a wonderful smell. I experimented with many different oils and butters searching for the right combination. All of my hard work and research paid off. It took me about a year and a half to come up with a bar that I thought had those qualities and more. Finally, a bar of soap that had all of the aspects I was striving for. Today, I have something that my family and I can enjoy and take comfort in using.

Now when people ask me how I learned to make my own soap, I just look at them and smile. I know exactly what their response will be - surprise, delight, curiosity and satisfaction! They are especially pleased with the knowledge that I took the time and effort to produce something extra special - just for them!