Cold Process Soap Making Projects

Making cold-process soap from scratch can feel overwhelming when you are first starting out. These projects have customized recipes with step-by-step instructions that walk you through mixing lye, melting oils, emulsifying, colorants, and more. 

These projects work well for small groups and parties because everyone can follow the same recipe. Groups can work through each step of the process together, unlike some other projects that can be difficult to synchronize. If you are looking for an even more guided experience, Bramble Berry offers cold process soap-making kits that include all of the ingredients, instructions, and supplies in one box.

When you select a cold process soap project and add it to your cart, you will be able to edit the shopping cart by adding or removing any ingredients or supplies. This is great for makers who already own some cold process soap-making supplies or would like to personalize the Bramble Berry recipe to match their own vibe.

Signs Your Cold Process Soap Is Ready to Unmold

• Edges have pulled away slightly from the mold
• Surface feels firm and doesn't indent when pressed gently
• No soft or gel-like spots in the center
• Bars hold their shape when the mold is tilted
• Color has fully set, and the surface looks matte

Can I unmold my cold process soap the next day, or does it need longer in the mold?

Most cold process soap needs 24 to 48 hours in the mold before you can safely unmold it. Recipes with higher amounts of hard oils like coconut oil unmold faster, while recipes with mostly olive oil can take up to a week. The instructions in each project will tell you the recommended amount of time. You can also look for the common signs that your soap is ready to unmold. Adding sodium lactate at 1 tsp. per pound of oils can also help the soap unmold quicker.

How long does the cold process soap need to cure before I can use it?

Cold process soap needs four to six weeks to cure after you unmold and cut it. During this time, water evaporates from the bars and the soap becomes harder and milder. You can technically use it sooner, but it will not last as long in the shower and will be drying and irritating on your skin.

What happens if my cold process soap gets too thick while I am mixing it?

Some fragrances and essential oils can cause soap to thicken faster than expected. If your batter gets too thick to pour smoothly, scoop it into the mold with a spatula instead. Most of the time, the soap will still turn out fine. The project instructions note which fragrances may accelerate trace, so you can blend more quickly when you are working with them.