Joanne

Has anyone purchased the log soap mold and cutter from www.soapequipment.com ? They are pricey but I'm tired of paper lining and waste and thought I would try something new. Any thoughts or suggestions would be appreciated. Thank you

I thought I posted this question yesterday and cannt find it - if it is here twice I apologize. Does anyone have a better way to fill tea lights other than with the pour pot? My results are less then satisfactory. I was going to try using syringes for better control and less spilling or a smaller container with a sharper pour spout. Thanks in advance ...

I've been filling my tea lights using the pour pot with less then satifactory results. I was thinking of purchasing syringes and using those. Does anyone have a better idea? Thank you.

Does anyone know if putting EO's in a hot tub will create problems for the tub? Friends of mine are renting a house with a hot tub at the beach for a week and I thought it would be fun to include a 'party' basket for them to enjoy.

I'm not sure if this is what you are asking but www.candleScience.com under wick guide gives wick suggestions depending on wax and size of candle.

I make and sell soap and tell 'customers' who want to know who my suppliers are that 'it varies'. If they are too persistent I name the highest price supplier in my area that I know of. I have a neighbor (not a good friend by any means) that pestered me over and over again to show her how I make soap. I was vague and finally told her that when I make my batches I begin at 4:00 a.m. and that I really don't want anyone over that early because I didn't want to wake up the entire household. Although I've altered my schedule to make soap with friends I wasn't going to do the same for her. For other 'customers' I will suggest one book and tell them that is the way I learned how to make it - they can do the same. It takes money and lots of practice. I don't think you need to be rude especially if there is a friendship or a potential sale involved. You are still a business and need to keep that in mind.

I'm stumped ... what are they?

Thank You! I'll send them privately. I'm using the example our teacher provided - so if you don't want to answer them or they don't apply - just skit it. Joanne

I use Fetpack or Nashville wraps

I hope I don't post this twice (computer problem with last posting) I'm taking a business class through the local JC and as usual during the holiday season I've bitten off more than I can chew. I have a term paper due Monday and along with the term paper, I can submit (up to 4) interviews with small or large business owners. Just so you know, I sell CP soap, want to sell candles and other body products and plan on expanding my business to an on-line store and wholesale (one of the reasons for taking this class). Anyhow it's a legit class you can check on me - I don't want anyone to think I'm asking for the interview just to steal ideas. In fact, I'm not sure what questions I would ask - I just know it will be a short interview. I only need two interviews from anyone on the board who owns or manages a business. Anyone interested?

Although M&P and CP are soap, the process is the different. The FO in CP may cause a reaction to the oils/lye mixture that's not desirable for the final product. I would imagine if it's OK in M&P then it's skin safe. You could always make a test batch or check with the company you purchased the FO from and ask them way they state that it's good for M&P only. Just a thought ...

I admit it ... I'm a lover. I mix 1/4 patchouli EO with sweet orange EO ... it's yummy!

I'll get off my high horse and stop being so picky; I do realize that shipping would be cheaper so I'll give it a go. I've been selling for 9 years now and it's difficult to add new suppliers and keep it straight ... there are SO MANY companies out there now but I'm hopelessly addicted ....

Almond from Brambleberry. I scent 1/2 in CP; it makes me gag but sells well.

I am looking for a Carnation FO at the request of a customer with very little luck. I found one but the company uses plastic bottles. (I have an aversion to companies using plastic bottles from an experience I had years ago with cheap smelling fo's that I threw away). Thank you in advance ...

I use Lab Colors - they have some colors that are specifically formulated for soap recipes containing Olive/Pomace oils. Brambleberry carries them. HTH

Hi everyone! I'm new at this also. I decided to make tea lights for my first effort. How do you secure the wick in the bottom of the cup? I used wick stickers but it seemed like a waste of $ for something so small. Is there a better system to use?

I just checked out Bathandbody.com Look at 'Davies Gate' soap - it looks like it may be the soap your customer described. I don't know what the blue specks are but they tell you what the scrubbies are that they use. I like cornmeal and poppy seed myself.

I've been making and selling soap/body products for 9 years and am ready to venture into candle making beginning with jar candles to compliment my soaps. I've used the one pour waxes but this feels like cheating in a 'melt and pour' soap making sort of way. I would rather develop my own personal blend and get a 'feel' for wax and candle making. Although the FO's I use for my soaps seem to be more expensive, I understand I can use those in candles as well; I really want the scents to match exactly with my soaps. I'm thinking of purchasing several different types of waxes, wicks, and colorants and begin experimenting now to be ready by this time next year (hopefully). I've glanced through and printed the VERY helpful TIPS and FAQ's for newbies (that I will be reading today at my real job when the boss isn't watching) but if anyone can give me a push as to what would be a good starting point with waxes and supplies I would be greatful. Also, my santa saver is ready to kick into my checking account so $ isn't too much of an object. Thank you.