Teach Soap

I have read the posts regarding Lye but don't believe I see this addressed. I have only used the Lye Flakes from BB. I can buy 100% Lye Crystals from the local hardware store. The manfacturer is Rooto. The cost is less plus no shipping costs (24 cents per oz) but the biggie for me is being able to buy it when I need it. The hardest thing about soaping for me is having the ingredients on hand when I want to "soap"! I guess I am running my soap kitchen just like I run my food kitchen ... there's never anything to put together a meal! : ) Is there a reason that I should not buy Lye from the Hardware vs a Soap Supply House? And what is the defference between crystals and flakes? I'm interested in hearing what some of the more experienced soapers are using?

That's actually the brand I've been using. I get mine at my local Ace Hardware and it's been doing fine turning my oils to soap. I really haven't run into any problems yet.

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Tamra
New to soaping, long time crafter and artisan, avid learner of new things!

There is no difference between crystals and flakes. There are also beads. I prefer the flakes as they don't fly all over.

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

If you wipe your meauring cup, etc. with a dryer sheet before measuring your lye, it will help cut down the static and keep it from bouncing around.

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

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

This is all good information. I've never had the experience of my lye "flying" around like I have read on some of these posts but I think I'll get some of those sheets to keep on hand anyway. So it seems like a personal preference then, or maybe whatever type available to you. Thanks, everyone!

I haven't had any problems with the Rooto brand getting static-y on me... I simply turn my tap on cold and open my bottle over the sink with the cold water running just in case any of the crystals do decide to jump (hasn't happened yet) and do the same thing when I close the bottle!

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Tamra
New to soaping, long time crafter and artisan, avid learner of new things!

I always use the flakes; I buy it from my local chemist. Have no idea where to find the crystals. Haven't had any problems though..