Teach Soap

When one rebatches how much water should one use? I typically shred my soap with my salad shooter and then put it in a pan over low heat. I wait for it to warm just a bit and then put in 2tbs - 1/4c of water to mix in so it doesn't burn. Then I add more shreds and melt and add more H2O and so on.
I'm wondering if I can actually add too much water. My rebatching never becomes fluid and stays pretty thick but I don't want to compromise my soap.
Answers/advice...pleeeaaassee!

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~Rachel~

Yes - you can add too much water. Rebatch should be thick... does not get as liquid as other soap making methods.

How much you add depends on how old and dry the soap is. Whoever you bought the soap from can advise you on how much to add.

It sounds like what are doing is good. Start with a little water and mix more in if needed. 2tbs to 1/4 a cup per pound of gratings.

The more water you add the longer it can take to harden and be released from the molds.

Thanks! That really helps!

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~Rachel~

You are better off misting your shreds with water and mixing them up with your hands before you start introducing heat.

Direct heat isn't really the best way to go with rebatching. Too much of a chance of scorching the soap. There are many methods, but I prefer the microwave. Some people do a boiling bag or crock pot. I just think the micro is the quickest...and least messy method.

I prefer not to rebatch, but if I must, I like the boiling bag method.

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Irena
Closed minds are like faulty parachutes; they refuse to open.

Just re-read your original post... and I would definitely do a double boiler method as well. Cooking the soap directly in the hot
pan is only going to give you more difficulties than you need!

Turkey bags usually work really good.