Pencil Line ???

[sjconner]

How do you do a pencil line? I have a couple soap/scent ideas I want to try but can't seem to wrap my head around how to do a pencil line. I think my teen aged students have sucked out all my brain cells.

Thanks in advance,

Susan

[FarmerJill]

Here's how I do it:

Pour the first layer at a not too thin trace.

Then sprinkle on whatever you're using for a line. I use cocoa powder a lot but also red, green or white clay, depending on the color scheme I'm after. I use those cups from Pampered Chef that have a sifting screen on top. Works great! Just tip it over and shake. There are also less expensive versions out there. It generally takes less than what you think except for the white clay which doesn't show up quite as well. I've also sprinkled on mica a few times but always worried about straight color like that staining a wash cloth.

Then carefully pour the rest of your soap batter over the top, trying not to disturb the line. Some people pour over a spatula or the back of a spoon. I usually ladle it on. This is why the bottom layer has to be a bit thick or everything will just mix together. Also, I tend to prefer lines which aren't straight so with a thicker batter I'll sometimes make dips and valleys with a spoon before sprinkling on the line. Adds eye-appeal IMO.

If your line is too thick your soap can fall apart so I always gel because IMO gelling binds it together better.

Have fun!!

[Kitn]

I do similar to previous poster, I use a salt shaker with a piece of pantyhose stretched over the top and the lid screwed back on. I use a piece of board the same width as my mold to pour the soap on top of the pencil line.

[FarmerJill]

I use a piece of board the same width as my mold to pour the soap on top of the pencil line.

Great idea!

[Kitn]

Thank you, it seems to work the best,no soap plopping off the side etc.

[sjconner]

Thank you for your replies. I thought about sprinkling mica on but was worrid the soap would fall apart there. I have a batch of cedar and saffron I used to mmuch oxide in. I shredded it to reuse in another batch. I am going to try this - I have nothing to lose with this batch!

Thanks again!

Susan