Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen

In episode 146 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola delves into the world of essential oils, focusing on their scarcity and value. The episode begins with a warm welcome and introduction to essential oils, setting the stage for a deeper exploration. Anne-Marie discusses the factors contributing to the scarcity and value of these oils, providing insight into their unique market dynamics. She then offers a practical segment on making a linen spray and incorporating essential oils into body care products, adding a hands-on element. The episode concludes with a roundup of resources and a thoughtful conclusion, equipping listeners with...

In episode 145 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola delves into diverse topics crucial for soapmakers. The episode begins with an introduction, leading into a discussion on the role of palm oil in soapmaking, addressing its benefits, controversies, and potential alternatives. Following a sponsor message from Bramble Berry, Anne-Marie provides essential oil safety guidelines, emphasizing proper usage. She then clarifies the differences between weight and volume in crafting, vital for accurate measurements. A DIY hot oil hair treatment recipe is shared, adding a personal care touch. The episode also covers photography tips to enhance soap business marketing. It concludes...

In episode 144 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola explores the aromatic world of essential oils in soapmaking. The episode kicks off with a warm welcome and introduction, setting the stage for a comprehensive overview of essential oils. Anne-Marie shares her top ten essential oils, highlighting their unique properties and benefits. She also discusses her favorite essential oil combinations, providing listeners with inspiration for creating custom scents. Usage calculations are covered, ensuring safe and effective incorporation of essential oils into soap recipes. The episode concludes with a sponsor message from BrambleBerry.com, offering additional resources for soapmakers. (0:00) Welcome and...

In episode 143 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola addresses the common challenge of soap discoloration and offers practical strategies to maintain the appearance of handmade soap. The episode begins with a warm welcome and introduction, setting the stage for the discussion. Anne-Marie then delves into techniques for preventing soap discoloration, emphasizing the importance of ingredient selection and storage conditions. She shares tips on maintaining soap's visual appeal, ensuring that finished products remain vibrant and attractive. The episode wraps up with a conclusion and a message from the episode's sponsor, providing additional resources for soapmakers. (0:00) Welcome & Introduction (0:42) Preventing Soap...

In episode 142 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola explores the creative process of crafting wedding soap favors. She begins with an introduction to the episode's theme, focusing on the art of color experimentation in soapmaking. The discussion includes insights into effective color blending techniques and the challenges posed by discontinued supplies. Anne-Marie presents her final color choices for the wedding favors, offering inspiration for listeners seeking to personalize their soap creations. The episode concludes with closing remarks, summarizing the key points and encouraging soapmakers to embrace creativity in their projects. (0:00) Welcome and introduction to Soapmaking 101 with the Soap...

In episode 141 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola delves into the fascinating world of natural dyeing. The episode begins with an introduction to natural dyeing, discussing the various factors that affect color outcomes in the dyeing process. Anne-Marie explains the concept of weight of goods (WOG) and the importance of light-fastness in achieving lasting colors. She provides an overview of common natural dyes, including onion skins, weld, cochineal, madder root, and indigo. The episode also covers the essential processes of scouring and mordanting, necessary for successful dyeing. Fun facts about dyeing techniques are shared, providing intriguing insights into...

In episode 140 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola introduces the concept of water white fragrance oils, highlighting their benefits in soapmaking. She compares water white fragrance oils to essential oils, offering guidance on when each type is best utilized in crafting soap. The episode also explores creative applications for non-water white fragrance oils, expanding the possibilities for soapmakers. Anne-Marie concludes by showcasing Bramble Berry's selection of fragrance oils and resources, providing listeners with a valuable source for enhancing their soapmaking endeavors. (0:00) Introduction to water white fragrance oils and their benefits (1:04) Water white vs. essential oils and when to...

In episode 139 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola delves into the chemistry of soapmaking, focusing on the role of triacylglycerides and their transformation during the process. The episode provides a detailed exploration of lye, discussing its significance in creating heavy soap, its impact on pH levels, and the concept of lye discounting. Anne-Marie offers insights into these core elements, emphasizing their importance in crafting high-quality soap. The episode concludes with a nod to BrambleBerry.com as a sponsor, highlighting their valuable resources for soapmakers looking to enhance their skills and knowledge. (0:00) Introduction to Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen (1:06...

In episode 138 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola explores the intricate science behind soapmaking with insights from Kevin Dunn's soap science concepts. The episode delves into a fascinating water bottle experiment, illustrating the different types of glycerol and their roles in soap formulation. Anne-Marie further discusses the concepts of lye discount and superfat, providing listeners with a deeper understanding of these crucial elements in crafting quality soap. The episode wraps up with closing notes and highlights BrambleBerry.com as a sponsor, offering valuable resources for soapmakers to enhance their craft. (0:00) Introduction and Kevin Dunn's soap science concepts (1:19) Water...

In episode 137 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola dives into the world of web optimization tailored specifically for soapmakers. She begins by introducing the Google Webmaster Zone and the significance of trust factors in enhancing online presence. The episode then explores the creation of relevant content, emphasizing the role of images and keywords in attracting and retaining audience interest. Anne-Marie also discusses the importance of being cautious with links and the nuances of off-page optimization. The episode concludes with Anne-Marie's key takeaways and highlights BrambleBerry.com as a sponsor, offering resources for soapmakers to enhance their craft. (0:00) Welcome...

In episode 136 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola delves into the foundational aspects of soapmaking, highlighting the importance of accurate measurements. She explores the critical distinction between weight and volume when dealing with soapmaking ingredients, emphasizing how precision impacts the quality and consistency of the final product. Anne-Marie offers practical advice and techniques to ensure accurate measurements, fostering a successful soapmaking process. The episode wraps up with closing thoughts and suggestions for additional resources, providing listeners with further guidance and support in their soapmaking endeavors. (0:00) Welcome and introduction to soapmaking essentials (0:22) Importance of accurate measurements in soapmaking (2:05) Weight...

In episode 135 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola introduces listeners to the critical topic of working safely with lye, specifically focusing on Potassium Hydroxide in soapmaking. She provides a comprehensive understanding of lye, including proper storage and handling techniques to ensure safety in the soapmaking process. Anne-Marie emphasizes the importance of essential safety gear and tools when working with lye to prevent accidents. She also offers practical advice on how to respond effectively to any incidents involving Potassium Hydroxide. The episode includes a segment highlighting Bramble Berry, the sponsor, offering resources for soapmakers. (0:00) Welcome and episode introduction (0:28) Lye...

In episode 134 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola welcomes listeners to a new session focused on the essentials of preparing soapmaking ingredients and exploring various colorant techniques. She provides detailed guidance on selecting and preparing ingredients to ensure a successful soapmaking process. Anne-Marie also discusses different methods for incorporating colorants, offering tips to achieve vibrant and consistent hues in soap. The episode includes a resource spotlight on BrambleBerry.com, highlighting valuable tools and materials available for soapmakers, enhancing their ability to create beautiful, customized soaps. (0:00) Welcome and Introduction (0:28) Preparing Ingredients and Colorant Techniques (1:40) Resource Spotlight: BrambleBerry.com

In episode 133 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola welcomes listeners to a practical discussion on managing common challenges in soapmaking. She addresses issues such as acceleration, ricing, and discoloration, offering insights into handling these problems effectively. Anne-Marie shares valuable tips for ensuring good soapy behavior, helping soapmakers achieve consistent and successful results. The episode concludes with closing remarks and highlights resources available from Bramble Berry, providing listeners with additional support and tools for their soapmaking projects. (0:00) Welcome and episode introduction (1:08) Handling acceleration, ricing, discoloration, and other soap issues (3:06) Tips for ensuring good soapy behavior (3:32) Closing remarks and Bramble...

In episode 132 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola begins by welcoming listeners and providing an overview of the distinctions between natural and organic in the context of soapmaking. She delves into the nuances of "natural" and "organic" labels, clarifying their meanings and implications for soapmakers. Throughout the episode, Anne-Marie offers key takeaways on using these terms accurately and responsibly in soapmaking practices. The discussion aims to equip listeners with a clearer understanding of these labels, empowering them to make informed choices in their soapmaking endeavors. (0:00) Welcome and Overview of Natural vs. Organic in Soapmaking (1:51) Understanding "Natural" and "Organic"...

In episode 131 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola welcomes listeners to an informative discussion on the role of olive oils in soapmaking. She dives into the nuances of testing and using store-bought olive oils, offering practical advice for soapmakers. Anne-Marie shares her recommendations and conclusions from various olive oil tests, emphasizing the importance of choosing reliable vendors. The episode also explores all-olive oil recipes, highlighting their unique qualities. It concludes with a sponsor message from Bramble Berry, featuring their Castile soap products, providing listeners with additional resources for their soapmaking endeavors. (0:00) Welcome and introduction to olive oils in...

In episode 130 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola opens with an introduction to the episode's focus on creating an efficient soapmaking environment. She explores the importance of organizing your workspace and shares practical decluttering principles to enhance productivity. Anne-Marie discusses the benefits of decluttering, emphasizing how a tidy workspace can improve the soapmaking process and overall creativity. The episode provides listeners with actionable steps to streamline their work area, fostering a more enjoyable and efficient soapmaking experience. (0:00) Introduction to the episode (0:23) Organizing your workspace and decluttering principles (2:09) Benefits of decluttering

In episode 129 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola opens with a warm welcome and sets the stage for a math-focused exploration of soapmaking. She delves into the importance of math, guiding listeners through calculating usage rates and understanding parts and ratios essential for crafting soap. The episode progresses into working with scent blends and the application of percentages in recipes, providing practical insights for soapmakers. Anne-Marie introduces the Lye Calculator, sharing valuable shortcuts and tips for soapy math. The episode concludes with closing remarks, equipping listeners with the mathematical tools to enhance their soapmaking journey. (0:00) Welcome and episode...

In episode 128 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola begins with a warm welcome, setting the stage for an engaging exploration of lip product crafting. She introduces the "spoon trick," a handy technique for creating lip products, providing listeners with detailed step-by-step instructions. The episode includes a demonstration using Coral Mica and a Lip Balm Base, enhancing the learning experience with practical examples. Anne-Marie encourages listeners to share their own tips and experiences, fostering a sense of community. The episode concludes with a sponsor message from BrambleBerry.com, offering resources for further exploration in soapmaking and beyond. (0:00) Introduction and...

In episode 127 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola kicks off the episode with a warm welcome and an introduction to the day's topics. She takes on a cleaning challenge, addressing the tricky task of cleaning oily and waxy containers using a melt and pour soap base. Anne-Marie highlights the environmental benefits of this approach, sharing tips on how to repurpose soap scraps effectively. Listener engagement is encouraged throughout, adding a community feel to the episode. The episode wraps up with closing remarks, leaving listeners inspired to incorporate sustainable practices into their soapmaking routine. (0:00) Welcome and introduction to the...

In episode 126 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola welcomes listeners to an exploration of exfoliants in soapmaking, alongside highlights from a recent conference. The episode provides a comprehensive overview of preparing the lye and oil mixture, a crucial step in cold process soapmaking. Anne-Marie then delves into the art of layering soaps with exfoliants and natural colorants, offering tips for achieving beautiful results. Listeners are treated to a showcase of finished soaps and insights from conference attendees. The episode concludes with a dose of inspiration and additional resources for soapmakers eager to expand their craft. (0:00) Welcome and episode...

In episode 125 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola introduces listeners to the art of creating beautiful swirl designs in soapmaking. The episode begins with a discussion on various swirl tools and techniques to enhance soap aesthetics. Anne-Marie provides a video demonstration on resizing swirl tools and explores additional creative projects. She also shares valuable resources on essential oils and DIY projects, offering inspiration for soapmakers looking to expand their repertoire. The episode wraps up with a sponsor message from BrambleBerry.com, guiding listeners to supplies and resources to elevate their soapmaking journey. (0:00) Welcome and introduction to swirl tools...

In episode 124 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola introduces the world of body butters and scrubs, providing an overview of their benefits and uses. Joining her is Marla Bosworth, who shares insights into the formulation of these luxurious skincare products. Listeners are treated to a detailed recipe for a sugar scrub featuring Black Amber and Lavender, perfect for a home spa experience. The discussion extends to understanding oil absorption rates and the art of scenting body butters to achieve the desired aroma. The episode concludes with a mention of BrambleBerry.com, offering resources and supplies for crafting body...

In episode 123 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola delves into the historical significance and modern use of tallow in soapmaking. The episode opens with a warm welcome and explores the roots of tallow in traditional soap crafting. Anne-Marie shares guest insights into the unique properties of tallow, followed by a discussion on its production and the benefits it brings to soap formulations. She also covers tallow substitutes and alternatives for those seeking different options. The episode concludes with a mention of additional resources and a sponsor message, providing listeners with tools to enhance their soapmaking experience. (0:00) Welcome and...

In episode 122 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola emphasizes the importance of safety and organization in the soapmaking process. The episode starts with a warm welcome and essential safety tips to ensure a secure environment while crafting soap. Anne-Marie then delves into the necessary tools and equipment, along with guidance on preparing additives for your soap creations. She highlights the significance of an organized workspace, offering practical advice for efficient setup. The episode concludes with a message from BrambleBerry.com, directing listeners to resources and supplies to support their soapmaking endeavors. (0:00) Welcome and Safety Tips (1:17) Tools, Equipment, and...

In episode 121 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola focuses on the often-overlooked aspect of cleaning tools and methods in soapmaking. The episode starts with an introduction to the importance of maintaining clean equipment for successful soapmaking. Anne-Marie shares effective cleaning techniques and methods to ensure your tools are ready for use. She also offers final cleanup tips and encourages listeners to contribute their own cleaning strategies. The episode wraps up with a mention of resources and supplies available from BrambleBerry.com, aimed at enhancing the soapmaking experience. (0:00) Introduction to the episode (0:31) Cleaning tools and methods in soapmaking (2:03) Final...

In episode 120 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola shares valuable insights into creating professional-looking soap. The episode begins with a warm welcome and introduction, setting the stage for Anne-Marie's expert advice. She outlines five essential tips to elevate the appearance of your homemade soap, ensuring it looks polished and expertly crafted. The episode also features a segment highlighting resources and supplies from BrambleBerry.com, providing listeners with access to tools and materials to enhance their soapmaking journey. (0:00) Welcome and introduction (0:19) Five tips for professional-looking soap (2:49) Sponsor: BrambleBerry.com

In episode 119 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola explores the fun and creativity of hosting a DIY sugar scrub party. The episode begins with an introduction to the concept of crafting a Winter Gardenia Sugar Scrub. Anne-Marie provides a detailed recipe and step-by-step instructions for making this luxurious scrub. She shares tips on setting up and demonstrating the scrub-making process at your party, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for guests. The episode also touches on incorporating food and drinks to enhance the party atmosphere. Listeners are directed to BrambleBerry.com for additional soapmaking resources and supplies. (0:00) Introduction...

In episode 118 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola dives into the concept of trace in soapmaking. The episode begins with a welcome and introduction to the topic, explaining the significance of trace in the soapmaking process. Anne-Marie guides listeners through the various stages of trace, offering insights on how to recognize and utilize each stage effectively. She discusses factors that affect trace, including false trace, and examines how ingredients and temperature play a role. The episode concludes with encouragement and practical tips for mastering trace, along with a segment featuring resources and supplies from BrambleBerry.com. (0:00) Welcome and...

In episode 117 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola introduces listeners to the essentials of soapmaking, with a focus on understanding and testing pH levels. The episode begins with a warm welcome and an introduction to the foundational aspects of soapmaking. Anne-Marie then explains how to test pH using natural indicators, providing practical insights for soapmakers. She addresses the common issue of lye-heavy soap batches, offering solutions to correct them. The episode also includes a segment featuring resources and supplies from BrambleBerry.com, equipping soapmakers with the tools they need to succeed in their craft. (0:00) Welcome and Introduction to...

In episode 116 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola delves into the art of fragrance oil blending. The episode kicks off with an introduction to the categories of fragrance oils, setting the stage for a deeper understanding of blending techniques. Anne-Marie guides listeners through the process of understanding and combining fragrance notes and nuances to create harmonious blends. She emphasizes the importance of evaluating and adjusting fragrance blends to achieve the desired scent profile. The episode wraps up with additional resources for further exploration and closing remarks, offering a comprehensive overview for soapmakers interested in mastering fragrance blending. (0:00) Introduction...

In episode 115 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola explores the art of rebatching and utilizing soap scraps. The episode begins with a warm welcome and introduction to the topic, emphasizing the importance of reducing waste in soapmaking. Anne-Marie delves into creative techniques for repurposing soap scraps, offering practical advice and inspiration for turning leftovers into new, beautiful creations. She also highlights contributions from the soapmaking community and invites listeners to share their own ideas and experiences. The episode encourages innovation and resourcefulness in the craft of soapmaking. (0:00) Welcome and Introduction (0:30) Rebatching and Utilizing Soap Scraps (2:27) Creative Techniques with...

In episode 114 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola delves into the topic of oil substitution in soapmaking. The episode begins with a welcome and introduction to the importance of substituting oils in soap recipes. Anne-Marie discusses the significance of understanding oil properties and the role of the lye calculator in achieving successful substitutions. She explores the differences between hard and soft oils and provides specific examples of oil substitutions. The episode further examines the art and science behind oil substitution, offering valuable resources for soapmakers to enhance their craft. (0:00) Welcome and Introduction to Oil Substitution in Soapmaking (0:29) Importance...

In episode 113 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola explores the art of substituting oils in cold process soapmaking. The episode opens with an introduction to the topic, followed by a deep dive into understanding soap making oils, their SAP values, and characteristics. Anne-Marie provides guidelines and practical examples for substituting oils in soap recipes, focusing on common oils such as palm, olive, and coconut. She explains the differences between pomace olive oil and pure olive oil, and offers a list of common substitutes. The episode concludes with final tips on oil substitution and closing remarks, along with a...

In episode 112 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola delves into the world of two-part silicone molds. The episode begins with a warm welcome back to listeners, setting the stage for an exploration of the advantages and applications of these versatile molds in soapmaking. Anne-Marie shares insights into the benefits of using two-part silicone molds, highlighting their flexibility and ease of use. She also encourages listeners to share their own silicone mold projects and provides valuable resources for further exploration. The episode offers practical advice and inspiration for soapmakers looking to expand their mold repertoire. (0:00) Welcome back to Soapmaking 101...

In episode 111 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola guides listeners through the process of creating Woodgrain Soap. The episode kicks off with a welcome and introduction to this unique soapmaking project. Anne-Marie emphasizes the importance of safety and preparation in soapmaking before detailing the necessary ingredients and tools for the Woodgrain Soap. A comprehensive, step-by-step guide to making the soap batter follows, including pouring and designing techniques to achieve the woodgrain effect. The episode concludes with insights on curing and presenting the final soap product, along with closing remarks and a mention of BrambleBerry.com. (0:00) Welcome and introduction...

In episode 110 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola provides an in-depth exploration of soap molds, focusing on both silicone and wood types. The episode begins with an introduction and an overview of various molds used in soapmaking. Anne-Marie discusses the challenges of lingering scents and soda ash when using silicone molds and offers solutions for these issues. The episode continues with an introduction to wood molds, including tips on cleaning and maintaining them. Anne-Marie also explains the benefits of using wood molds for oven processing and shares advice on their care. The episode wraps up with closing remarks...

In episode 109 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola explores the benefits and challenges of crafting milk soap. The episode begins with a welcome and an introduction to the unique properties of milk soap, followed by a discussion on the importance of temperature control and the technique of using frozen milk during the lye mixing process. Anne-Marie explains the role of sodium lactate in the soapmaking process and offers strategies for preventing the gel phase in milk soap. The episode wraps up with a mention of BrambleBerry.com, providing listeners with insights into successfully creating milk-based soap with enhanced...

In episode 108 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola tackles the intricacies of unmolding soap from plastic molds. The episode opens with an introduction to the challenges and differences faced when working with plastic molds compared to other types. Anne-Marie explores how sodium lactate and recipe adjustments can enhance the unmolding process. A detailed, step-by-step guide to successfully unmolding soap is provided, along with an evaluation of sodium lactate's effectiveness in soap recipes. Alternatives for soap hardening are discussed, and tips for using plastic molds with hot process soap are shared. The episode concludes with a mention of BrambleBerry...

In episode 107 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola delves into the captivating world of vanilla scents in soapmaking. The episode kicks off with a welcome and introduction to the allure of vanilla fragrances in crafting. Anne-Marie then provides an in-depth understanding of vanilla absolute and essential oils, highlighting their roles and nuances in soap creation. She addresses the common issue of mislabeling vanilla oils and stresses the importance of sourcing from reputable suppliers to ensure quality and authenticity. The episode concludes with a nod to resources available at BrambleBerry.com, equipping listeners with the knowledge to enhance their...