Handmade Soap FAQ’s

• by Judi on Jan 24, 2006

Q: I was given handmade soap as a gift. Is there any special care I need to take with it?
A: Handmade soap needs to be kept in a dry, cool, dark storage space to maximize it’s lifespan. When in use, make sure it has sufficient drainage, as water will literally wash the soap away. In other words, make sure it is able to dry out between uses.

Q: I made soap a few years ago, but your soap looks different than what I made.
A: My handmade soap is made from scratch, using oils, butters, liquid (distilled water or milk, typically) and sodium hydroxide. We use a process called Cold-Process to make our soap. It’s likely the soap you made was glycerin soap - chipped off of a block, melted and added fragrance and coloring, possibly botanicals; then poured into a mold. Many people like glycerin soap. Many glycerin soaps are very beautiful.

Q: How big is each soap and what is the cost?
A: Each soap weighs between 4.5 - 5 ounces, with some slightly more - any soaps which weigh less are set aside. At some point, they may be sold as “Ugly Soap” for a discounted price. They measure approximately 3.5″ x 2.25″ and just over an inch thick. Our individual handmade soaps are $6.00.

Q: How much soap do you keep on hand?
A: All our handmade soap is made in small batches, usually 8 pounds or less. Our soaps are made fresh for the season to ensure freshness and quality. Because of this, quantities are limited, however, we continue to make new batches. If you need to purchase a large amount of soap, please allow 4-6 weeks to process the order. Feel free to contact us for specifics.

Q: I am looking for a specific fragrance I previously purchased, but I don’t see it listed. Will you ever have it in stock again?
A: We try to make and keep on hand the most requested. If there is a fragrance, or non-fragrance, you’d like to purchase, contact us to let us know what you are looking for.

Q: What if a soap I order is already sold-out?
A: We do our best to keep the website updated, but it happens. Should a soap you ordered be out of stock, we will contact you with the date it will be available (usually only a couple weeks) or offer suggestions on replacement soaps. Or we will refund your money for that fragrance.

Q: Do you take special orders?
A: Absolutely! We love making soap, and am happy to fill special requests. Depending on the time of year and the soap requested, we may require a minimum quantity purchased. Inquiries are welcome - contact us.

Q: Would you do personalized labels for special occasions?
A: Yes, we do personlized labels, but require a small one-time, set-up fee. We would need to discuss the options. Some ideas for personalized labels: party favors, wedding gifts (brides maids), holiday gifts, new home purchases (realtors love these! It’s an alternative to the typical bottle of wine. ). Please contact us for more information.

Q: On one visit to your site, I saw “Ugly Soap” that was discounted. What exactly is that?
A: Periodically ugly soaps are available. These are generally soaps I’m just ready to get off the shelves. They are good soaps, possibly faded a bit, in both color and fragrance. Or maybe I’ve just made a new batch and I want to cycle through the older batches. Ugly soaps may be a bit thinner than our regular size bar, or may be not. Like our regular handmade soaps, our ugly soap requires a cool, dry storage space to maximize it’s life as well as proper drainage.

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