Teach Soap

Hi All,

I'm new to soap making, but I've been lurking around for a few weeks reading and following along on other people’s posts. I’m somewhat familiar with batch manufacturing as I work for a company that is a contract manufacture of skincare products that are sold to dermatologists, plastic surgeons and cosmetic surgeons.

I have a dumb question. If I’m trying to come up with a 5lb batch, is the water/lye also calculated into the weight of the batch? I’m assuming that there will be some evaporation from the chemical process?

Olive Oil |26.5oz |1.65625
Coconut Oil |16.5oz |1.03125
Palm Oil |10oz |0.62500
Lye |209g |0.46077
Distilled Water |20oz |1.25000
Total Weight: 5.02327

Hi and welcome to soapmaking! Yes, the water and lye weight are calculated into the total weight of the batch of soap. If you want to make a 5lb batch of soap then it is oils+water+lye. However, if you have never made soap before please, start off with a smaller batch like only 1 or 2 pounds. It is best to start small and get a feel for making it before making such a big batch. The best way to start are with little 1lb batches uncolored & without fragrance. Have fun and good luck!!

Hi and welcome! Ditto what Toni said.

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Linda
I know the voices in my head aren't real, but they sure have some great ideas!

Thanks for the replies and the direction.

Welcome, bmoscato!

This part used to confuse me also. Usually when we refer to a 5 lb batch (or whatever size) we mean oil weight since most additives, colorants, and fragrances are calculated by the weight of the oils only. Mold size goes by total weight since the whole thing has to fit into the mold, not just oils. So if I say I'm making a 2 lb batch, it's 2lbs of oils, but if I say I'm using my 2 lb log mold to make a batch, it's more like 20 oz of oils. Hope that helps!

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Linda

I learn so much when I can't leave well enough alone!