Basic Instructions for M & P soaps.
Basic Melt and Pour Soaps (M&P)
Not pictured is waxed paper, which you can place under your work space for easier clean up, and Saran Wrap which you can use to cover your container when melting to keep in moisture.
Step 2: Place soap in microwave and melt for 10-30 second intervals, depending on amount of soap. 1 1/2 cups of chunks usually takes about 45 seconds (30 seconds, stir, then back in for 15 seconds), in my microwave. But since microwave ovens vary, you want to keep a close watch on your soap. You don't want the soap to get too hot (see hints and tips). Check the soap every now and then, giving it a gentle stir, repeating until lumps are melted.
Step 3: When the soap is melted, add your soap safe fragrance oil (about ½ - 1 TBSP per pound of soap), stir and add coloring. (Note: sometimes the fragrance oil can discolor the soap. This is why I like to add the fragrance first, then the dye.) Do not add your fragrance oil when the soap is too hot, or the oil can burn off. Let the soap cool enough that you can stick your finger in it without having to call the paramedics, but not so cool that a skin starts to form on the top.
After adding your fragrance and dye, stir gently until all additives are mixed in with the melted soap.
Step 4: Carefully pour your soap into clean molds. I like to line my molds with a thin coating of petroleum jelly. This helps with the removal of the soaps.
Now is the time where you would kill the bubbles by spritzing the soap with a bit of alcohol. This is an optional step. Personally, I like to squirt the bubbles and watch them disappear, but some people don't like the thought of putting alcohol on their soap.
Let the soap sit until hardened. If you are impatient like me, wait 10 minutes, then carefully move the mold to fridge until they are solid.
Step 5: When your soaps are hard and set (usually in about 1/2 hour to an hour), you can try to gently remove them from the mold. Sometimes they pop out, and sometimes they are more stubborn. If they do not come out with gentle prying, place them in the fridge for a half-hour (you can also try the freezer for a little bit) and try removing them again.
Soaps are ready to use as soon as they harden!!
Helpful Hints and Tips