tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-56700137507468631282024-03-13T06:43:01.194-07:00Lady Mucks Blog - A soapers insightAn insight to the creations and catastrophies of a soaper. From soaps to bath luxuries, a view from Lady Mucks.ladymuckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10184726096178332732noreply@blogger.comBlogger27125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670013750746863128.post-77315311347335502752011-05-25T10:53:00.000-07:002011-05-25T11:05:05.739-07:00new cp recipe neededwell it's been a fabulous month of cold process soap making..and there's been a few triumphs that I've managed to squeeze inbetween the bath bomb wholesale orders. <br /><br />Although I can't do the intricate swirls and layering that I have been as my mix just thickens too quickly, but it's perfect for a one colour.<br /><br />Here's a few of the ones I've been playing with <br />Finest spun linen cold process<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2XCb83aigMc/Td1C67HpUKI/AAAAAAAAAIM/wx00L5OHS_Q/s1600/IMG_6245.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2XCb83aigMc/Td1C67HpUKI/AAAAAAAAAIM/wx00L5OHS_Q/s320/IMG_6245.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610714290843111586" /></a><br /><br />Cedarwood & Rooibos essential oil cold process<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V99ynrkCTPI/Td1DFF_hRvI/AAAAAAAAAIU/7IBHyt_7ld0/s1600/cedarwood%2Bco%2Bsoap%2B600.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 256px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V99ynrkCTPI/Td1DFF_hRvI/AAAAAAAAAIU/7IBHyt_7ld0/s320/cedarwood%2Bco%2Bsoap%2B600.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610714465560512242" /></a><br /><br />Lavender Rose essential oil cold process<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5UKi-Hv_cgo/Td1DRlyG_OI/AAAAAAAAAIc/4HEosVkHGxs/s1600/lavender%2Bcp%2B600.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 256px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5UKi-Hv_cgo/Td1DRlyG_OI/AAAAAAAAAIc/4HEosVkHGxs/s320/lavender%2Bcp%2B600.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610714680252628194" /></a><br /><br />Clotted Cream cold process <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BCFFQo-lnc8/Td1DjfXouZI/AAAAAAAAAIk/XCtKVrsLWnk/s1600/clotted%2Bcream%2Bcp.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BCFFQo-lnc8/Td1DjfXouZI/AAAAAAAAAIk/XCtKVrsLWnk/s320/clotted%2Bcream%2Bcp.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610714987768625554" /></a><br /><br />And finally an Ale cold process<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7oFgww8tkZw/Td1DyyB-WxI/AAAAAAAAAIs/xmrCYObigIc/s1600/ale%2Bcp%2B600.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7oFgww8tkZw/Td1DyyB-WxI/AAAAAAAAAIs/xmrCYObigIc/s320/ale%2Bcp%2B600.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610715250476079890" /></a>.<br /><br />I can't begin to describe the satisfaction of Cold Process soap making..it's the perfect remedy to blow away the stresses of the day. To start with a few butters and oils and to turn it into something bubbly and creamy and that you get alot of pleasure using.<br /><br />It may be slightly more expensive to use than glycerine soaps but the benefits they bring can not compare...you can feel all those gorgeous butters and oils conditioning your skin and leaving it highly moisturised and loved...if you've not tried some I really do recommend you do..I guarantee you'll love it!ladymuckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10184726096178332732noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670013750746863128.post-43108175300393783992011-04-17T07:40:00.001-07:002011-04-23T01:52:10.196-07:00Traditional Soaping Disaster Weekit has been the week from hell where soap making has been concerned..I thought I had perfected my recipe and it's being a nightmare atm.<br /><br />2 times this week I've tried to do a Black Raspberry & Vanilla ( BRV ) cp soap and 2 times its gone awry<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w4AqdjG6ZXY/Tar8ROYy2NI/AAAAAAAAAHs/Nv2muUk5JP0/s1600/IMG_6014.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w4AqdjG6ZXY/Tar8ROYy2NI/AAAAAAAAAHs/Nv2muUk5JP0/s320/IMG_6014.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596562859811330258" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pgAqOJLy0rk/Tar8d4abN1I/AAAAAAAAAH0/wPuO8GJXXGo/s1600/IMG_6016.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pgAqOJLy0rk/Tar8d4abN1I/AAAAAAAAAH0/wPuO8GJXXGo/s320/IMG_6016.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596563077250889554" /></a><br /><br />I was sooo gutted as it looked gorgeous when I had finished the layers and swirling but when it came to de-moulding it all stuck to the sides and ruined the whole slab.<br /><br />Batch number 2 wasn't much better...but it de-moulded fairly well after 48 hours hardening but when cutting it smeared those fab swirls everywhere.<br /><br />So today i thought I would do a Rose Geranium essential oil one colour loaf...it was divine until I took my eyes off it for no longer than 10 seconds and mount Vesuvius erupted all along the centre <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-48PzFwr9xpg/Tar9ieJomQI/AAAAAAAAAH8/tTy9OGqi0gI/s1600/IMG_6138.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-48PzFwr9xpg/Tar9ieJomQI/AAAAAAAAAH8/tTy9OGqi0gI/s320/IMG_6138.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596564255612115202" /></a><br /><br />my plan for Cornwall soap domination is quickly coming to an end.<br /><br />Here's an updated picture of the Rose Geranium essential oil soap after a few good whacks and a settling down period<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-434baQ858h4/TbKTJR_Ri7I/AAAAAAAAAIE/uR2fvO8URG4/s1600/rose%2Bgeranium%2Bessential%2Boil%2Blarge.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-434baQ858h4/TbKTJR_Ri7I/AAAAAAAAAIE/uR2fvO8URG4/s320/rose%2Bgeranium%2Bessential%2Boil%2Blarge.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5598699074431847346" /></a>ladymuckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10184726096178332732noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670013750746863128.post-71130796871490470232011-03-01T13:24:00.001-08:002011-03-01T13:35:33.633-08:00CP Addictwell it's been quite a wile since I last blogged..there's been loads happening here at LM's..but I shall make sure I post every month so you can keep upto date with all our goodies<br /><br />We've been indulging in CP( Cold Process ) soap making again as it's just something that's really adored here..went a bit mad over the weekend but had some amazing results.<br /><br />Super simple and basically gorgeous Castile ( 100% Olive oil ) soap with fragrance variations...I just adore the Bay Rum with it's plum, turquoise and cream pattern...<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N8i6gX7u7Io/TW1lk0u3OOI/AAAAAAAAAHE/9HoiaBVEIu8/s1600/3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N8i6gX7u7Io/TW1lk0u3OOI/AAAAAAAAAHE/9HoiaBVEIu8/s320/3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5579227196686809314" /></a><br /><br />here's some others we've been making<br />Liquorice which we could cry over as it's a bit crumbly at the bottom :0(<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lkuv3NsWWHg/TW1lu4jcYHI/AAAAAAAAAHM/NIz2Y_NsoQE/s1600/1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lkuv3NsWWHg/TW1lu4jcYHI/AAAAAAAAAHM/NIz2Y_NsoQE/s320/1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5579227369511346290" /></a><br />Samsara type<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DiOjxfCtuv4/TW1l2KTRXXI/AAAAAAAAAHU/fIBzWLOdKS4/s1600/2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DiOjxfCtuv4/TW1l2KTRXXI/AAAAAAAAAHU/fIBzWLOdKS4/s320/2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5579227494534438258" /></a><br />Monkey Farts<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JNMpxp7rA5M/TW1l_NOkFkI/AAAAAAAAAHc/-Fs9-O2Z6Gw/s1600/4.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JNMpxp7rA5M/TW1l_NOkFkI/AAAAAAAAAHc/-Fs9-O2Z6Gw/s320/4.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5579227649938822722" /></a><br />Blue Amberwood<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qud-hRkXb2U/TW1mHdfUUnI/AAAAAAAAAHk/E9F-gc-9uJU/s1600/5.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qud-hRkXb2U/TW1mHdfUUnI/AAAAAAAAAHk/E9F-gc-9uJU/s320/5.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5579227791743013490" /></a><br />and a Red Grapefruit & Sugarcane that went horrifically wrong.......<br /><br />Just 6 long weeks left to go now until they can be used and are fully hardened...we can't wait.ladymuckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10184726096178332732noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670013750746863128.post-34283482382166141852010-12-02T01:58:00.000-08:002010-12-02T02:08:09.394-08:00where has the time gone ?WOW I can't believe it's December already...the time has literally flown by.<br /><br />Things have been really busy here at LM's...with the new wholesale site opening we just haven't had a minute to ourselves....and we've missed out on some playtime too, so no new creations.<br /><br />We're hoping to get a unique range up and coming in the New Year with some fabulous fragrances and funky names to match...the new solid scrub bars have been going down a storm lately with some fabulous reviews....if you like a "hardcore" scrub then these are definitely for you. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/TPdvGjWpm0I/AAAAAAAAAGk/u85i5Gc2DHk/s1600/solidscrubred600.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/TPdvGjWpm0I/AAAAAAAAAGk/u85i5Gc2DHk/s320/solidscrubred600.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546023624490195778" /></a><br /><br />we are definitely going to expand on this range whilst also improving our more liquid scrubs ...it's quite hard to get the right look with the labeling.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/TPdvZMpDPSI/AAAAAAAAAGs/P-34Kv7x7OI/s1600/scrublily600.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 258px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/TPdvZMpDPSI/AAAAAAAAAGs/P-34Kv7x7OI/s320/scrublily600.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546023944810872098" /></a><br /><br />We've also been super busy on our facebook page with lot's of special prize draws and giveaways...we had a mega soap sale last Tuesday and it went down a treat....come on over and have a look if you haven't already.<br /> <br />We would like to wish all our customers new and old a very Happy Christmas & New Year.<br />LMladymuckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10184726096178332732noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670013750746863128.post-49605153249626468322010-08-04T06:02:00.000-07:002010-08-04T06:10:20.945-07:00Revamp & new goodiesWell Lady Mucks has been having a slight revamp and am loving the way it's starting to take shape. Hopefully it won't be too long until it's all finished...here's the new logo<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/TFllUeawIbI/AAAAAAAAAFs/KoQ5k17NvK0/s1600/Draft3c.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 225px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/TFllUeawIbI/AAAAAAAAAFs/KoQ5k17NvK0/s320/Draft3c.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501539822246830514" /></a> <br />With a new look website there has to be new look packaging ( which is proving to be a bit of a mare ) and of course new products...so here's a glimpse of things to come...a solid body scrub scented in Red Grapefruit & Sugarcane with the spanky new packaging<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/TFll2uOR6bI/AAAAAAAAAF0/a1PeGwhfmfs/s1600/solidscrubredlarge.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/TFll2uOR6bI/AAAAAAAAAF0/a1PeGwhfmfs/s320/solidscrubredlarge.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501540410605038002" /></a><br />If you're on Facebook come along and join me to keep even more upto date with all the latest prize giveaways and new releases just click on the new logo below ...the more fans the merrier and I would love to see some of my blogger followers there too.<br /><iframe src="http://www.facebook.com/plugins/likebox.php?id=50802503977&width=292&connections=0&stream=false&header=false&height=62" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="border:none; overflow:hidden; width:292px; height:62px;" allowTransparency="true"></iframe>ladymuckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10184726096178332732noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670013750746863128.post-12657115786812868752010-07-05T06:36:00.000-07:002010-07-05T06:43:34.275-07:00July Product of the monthok it's a hard one this month as I've been busily creating away in the Lady Mucks kitchen and come up with some fabby new Bath Meringues and the Blackberry & Apple sls free soap has been selling really well, sooooo I guess I'll feature both.<br /><br />Passion Fruit Bath Meringues with a Shea & Cocoa butter filling <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/TDHgiUzF2XI/AAAAAAAAAFU/PhpuPP8hHc4/s1600/IMG_4708.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/TDHgiUzF2XI/AAAAAAAAAFU/PhpuPP8hHc4/s320/IMG_4708.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490416301044521330" /></a><br /><br />Choconilla Bath Meringues also with a Shea & Cocoa butter filling<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/TDHg2WOYDVI/AAAAAAAAAFc/KVYsI30Q8eA/s1600/IMG_4710.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/TDHg2WOYDVI/AAAAAAAAAFc/KVYsI30Q8eA/s320/IMG_4710.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490416645024779602" /></a><br /><br />These have been part of recent prize draws I've been having on the Facebook fan page so if you haven't had a look please do and sign up to become and fan to keep up with all the latest news and prize draws.<br /><br />And finally...Blackberry & Apple sls free handmade soap<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/TDHhPFzHf0I/AAAAAAAAAFk/ZONmOrI7EM8/s1600/IMG_4682.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/TDHhPFzHf0I/AAAAAAAAAFk/ZONmOrI7EM8/s320/IMG_4682.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490417070112210754" /></a><br /><br />This has been selling so well these last few weeks I've lost count of how many loaves in total I've made.ladymuckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10184726096178332732noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670013750746863128.post-21718844930472670822010-06-15T10:10:00.001-07:002010-06-15T10:17:43.183-07:00June product of the month ~ Budding Romance Bath Bomb HeartThis months feature product:<br />Budding Romance ~ a blend of Egyptian White Musk and blushed pink rose buds. 150g each.<br /><br />I've had a couple of wedding favour orders for these this month and several individual sales and I can remember why.....Seeing my drying rack filled to bursting point with rows upon rows of them and the sweet musky scent wafting down the hall following me everywhere I go...has had me in the mood for love today.<br /><br />Simply beautiful<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/TBe0UOB2PII/AAAAAAAAAFM/2f9mfu1VTI0/s1600/IMG_4533.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/TBe0UOB2PII/AAAAAAAAAFM/2f9mfu1VTI0/s320/IMG_4533.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5483049330803096706" /></a>ladymuckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10184726096178332732noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670013750746863128.post-19382162642239064882010-05-29T12:01:00.000-07:002010-05-29T12:11:01.632-07:00HP OHCP twistsI'm having such a great weekend playing around with soaps and bath bombs I thought I'd share my latest and spread the happiness here at Lady Mucks kitchen.<br /><br />I saw a technique on the internet and thought I'd have a go so I tweaked my recipes because they are fast tracing and even faster setting and I need slower ones.<br /><br />I bought some super sweet and creamy Sugar Frosting from one of my favourite supplies and decided it had to be a trademark pink & purple colouring.<br /><br />Although I had tweaked and was sure of a slower setting mix it still went fairly quickly and had to frantically start the pouring process before it was too thick.<br /><br />Before the spat in the oven:<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/TAFlmPLtKFI/AAAAAAAAAEs/EN2WP9BG9hw/s1600/IMG_4451.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/TAFlmPLtKFI/AAAAAAAAAEs/EN2WP9BG9hw/s320/IMG_4451.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5476770329444296786" /></a><br /><br />after cooking and setting <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/TAFl968tExI/AAAAAAAAAE0/V67j62rjPbk/s1600/IMG_4476.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/TAFl968tExI/AAAAAAAAAE0/V67j62rjPbk/s320/IMG_4476.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5476770736329528082" /></a><br /><br />and finally sliced<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/TAFmP1zUzII/AAAAAAAAAE8/qCQaxXiGSPY/s1600/IMG_4477.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/TAFmP1zUzII/AAAAAAAAAE8/qCQaxXiGSPY/s320/IMG_4477.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5476771044185656450" /></a><br /><br />So whilst the creative juices were flowing I made this batch also , fragranced in Ocean Breeze <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/TAFmnWWJunI/AAAAAAAAAFE/Zj2tdzHGR50/s1600/IMG_4459.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/TAFmnWWJunI/AAAAAAAAAFE/Zj2tdzHGR50/s320/IMG_4459.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5476771448058657394" /></a>ladymuckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10184726096178332732noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670013750746863128.post-15790711276767507942010-05-28T11:30:00.000-07:002010-05-28T11:36:31.862-07:00Seeing as a piping craze has hit the UK b & b shores I thought I may have to get in on the act....how pleasantly surprised was I <br /><br />After a few bumbling attempts with a piping bag ( I am the most un-housewifey/domestic cook the world has ever seen ) I got there with a few lumps and bumps and then got totally carried away by dipping them in my mix.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/TAAMCImK26I/AAAAAAAAAEk/UVpZ-y3gUy8/s1600/IMG_4449.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/TAAMCImK26I/AAAAAAAAAEk/UVpZ-y3gUy8/s320/IMG_4449.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5476390377689373602" /></a><br /><br />I would really like to eat them...they are soooo tempting. So thanks Sandie for the fabby name of bath meringues consider it nabbed.<br /><br />Still carrying on the the feel good vibes from the beginning of the week so I may have a go at a new CP soap tomorrow...ladymuckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10184726096178332732noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670013750746863128.post-84916858954613530412010-05-24T03:03:00.000-07:002010-05-24T03:10:59.801-07:00Spanky New Bath BombsA fabby morning in the kitchen having some fun kicking back and playing around with new designs and the results:<br />2 different designs of Passion Flower..I couldn't decide which colour combo worked the best..I wanted them to be a bit more defined rather than blobs but I can work on that.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/S_pPT-hxo_I/AAAAAAAAAEU/dx5DWhkCtI8/s1600/IMG_4434.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/S_pPT-hxo_I/AAAAAAAAAEU/dx5DWhkCtI8/s320/IMG_4434.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474775501643031538" /></a><br /><br />And here's my other 2..a lemon & lime citrus blast ( will forgo the white central blob next time ) and a 2 colour swirl in Blackberry which I really fancy calling scramble to the bramble..it's a whacky day for me today :0)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/S_pP2lb4WnI/AAAAAAAAAEc/S8s0_h9GEuc/s1600/IMG_4436.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/S_pP2lb4WnI/AAAAAAAAAEc/S8s0_h9GEuc/s320/IMG_4436.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474776096202840690" /></a><br /><br />Seeing as it's a positively charged start to the week with good vibes flowing I'm back off to the kitchen to have yet another go at a Blackberry ( now re-named scramble to the bramble ..what can I say I'm a sucker for weird and wonderful ) HP or CP loaf.ladymuckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10184726096178332732noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670013750746863128.post-13974090537076535882010-05-20T03:48:00.000-07:002010-05-20T04:01:29.860-07:00nightmare dayOk so today's been a uber bad day with the soaping...well and yesterday too.<br />out of 4 batches of soap only 1 has turned out with good results.<br /><br />What did I make ?<br />Castile<br />Spearmint scrub<br />Seville orange & Calendula<br />Blackberry Sorbet<br /><br />what a mare it was..I tried to make Castile with the HP method and failed miserably..it took forever to trace and even longer to cook in the pan and even then it started looking weird with these funny oil pockets, so I stuck the blender back in an blitzed like heck. The end result is now a funny marbled white & cream loaf.<br /><br />The Spearmint scrub was worse and ended up in the bin soon to be joined by my Blackberry Sorbet which has a layer of oil about 1cm thick on the top..the dam FO curdled it rotten.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/S_UVJt_lrbI/AAAAAAAAAEE/Irf91mkkvgs/s1600/IMG_4429.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/S_UVJt_lrbI/AAAAAAAAAEE/Irf91mkkvgs/s320/IMG_4429.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5473304178848017842" /></a><br /><br />and just to complete the disastrous day a 50g bag of red iron oxide decided to poof open in my face and all over the worktops and floor covering everything in a gastly red colour. <br /><br /><br />So the only success is now sitting proudly on the drying tray waiting to be used.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/S_UVcgIk55I/AAAAAAAAAEM/hfBCzc61GZM/s1600/IMG_4423.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/S_UVcgIk55I/AAAAAAAAAEM/hfBCzc61GZM/s320/IMG_4423.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5473304501545133970" /></a><br /><br />well I did say this blog was a "trial and tribulations of a soaper" and it's been one cock up after another. It can't all be good.<br />So my lesson from 2 days of disasters is:<br />HP ~ best for basic one colour or botanical soaps<br />CP ~ best for Castile and lots of colours and delicate patterns<br />OHCP ~ thick traced and layered soapsladymuckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10184726096178332732noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670013750746863128.post-78806206788179083882010-05-11T13:49:00.000-07:002010-05-11T14:01:34.818-07:00Hot Process Cracked itOk so it's been a little while since I last Blogged but I have been busy in the kitchen trying to crack the Hot Process method and by jove I think I've got it.<br /><br />I started off with small 500g batches and was so proud of my first successful batch which was fragranced with Bay Rum...plain and simple but heavenly.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/S-nDjJp526I/AAAAAAAAADs/1soz3isgQUE/s1600/7.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/S-nDjJp526I/AAAAAAAAADs/1soz3isgQUE/s320/7.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5470118231072693154" /></a><br /><br />Then I tried to be a bit too cocky and went for a 3 coloured layered one, fragranced in Aphrodite which is like a spicy cola. The colours were a nitemare and I ended up with white blobs of soap flecked throughout.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/S-nESpoCG5I/AAAAAAAAAD0/wUDn77IPm34/s1600/IMG_4177.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/S-nESpoCG5I/AAAAAAAAAD0/wUDn77IPm34/s320/IMG_4177.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5470119047108631442" /></a><br /><br />And today's creation is Red Grapefruit & Candy cane..I absolutely love the fragrance and the colours were much easier this time to blend in.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/S-nE80ZxIsI/AAAAAAAAAD8/YW92G17-qf4/s1600/IMG_4332.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/S-nE80ZxIsI/AAAAAAAAAD8/YW92G17-qf4/s320/IMG_4332.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5470119771556094658" /></a><br />So all in all I am slowly getting there, but will ever aspire to create some of my own versions inspired by the wonderful soaps that are out there.ladymuckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10184726096178332732noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670013750746863128.post-2588581819608213152010-04-17T01:18:00.000-07:002010-04-17T01:28:24.268-07:00What a weekWell I tried to conquer the HP method of soap making and failed miserably ...I won't say what it looked like but let me tell you it wasn't nice.<br /><br />After a good ole chat with another HP maker ( thank you ) I am going to try again...am a little bit more informed now.<br /><br />So after my HP disaster I turned my attention to other goodies that I wanted to make and have to say I am way more happy with the results.<br />I made a delicious Body Latte fragranced in Ozone ( my absolute fav F/O at the moment ) and a Lavender & Chamomile infused Body Cream..the colour still needs working on as the infusion turned it to a murky grey.<br /><br />Ozone Body Latte<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/S8lwHLLVbMI/AAAAAAAAAC4/howUBo6_yb0/s1600/body+latte.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/S8lwHLLVbMI/AAAAAAAAAC4/howUBo6_yb0/s320/body+latte.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461019291725163714" /></a><br /><br />My new bottles also came in this week which helped me to transform my Body Polishes, the tired drab looking pots have been replaced with a nice new squeezy Tottle. I can now make them slightly more oilier. Just got to work on the darn labels now..that is probably one of the downsides for me as I hate designing new labels with a passion.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/S8lw4_smQuI/AAAAAAAAADA/yNGuHFJJsmk/s1600/tottlepink.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/S8lw4_smQuI/AAAAAAAAADA/yNGuHFJJsmk/s320/tottlepink.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461020147636912866" /></a>ladymuckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10184726096178332732noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670013750746863128.post-29290260204083614842010-03-29T03:48:00.000-07:002010-03-29T03:53:52.561-07:00A few fresh goodiesHad a really good morning today with some fabby new ideas and some new fragrances ~ here they are:<br />Ozone :A beautiful light sparkling blend of fresh aquatic marine notes with just a hint of white florals and foliage, added sea salt which is full of natural vitamins and minerals.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/S7CGByZcJQI/AAAAAAAAACo/TQ7Y3tP6GyM/s1600/bathbombozonepurple.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/S7CGByZcJQI/AAAAAAAAACo/TQ7Y3tP6GyM/s320/bathbombozonepurple.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454006514012136706" border="0" /></a><br />Secret Garden: Cornflower, Rose, Lavender and Calendula petals grace this bathing beauty with a sweet floral aroma.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/S7CGhXmEScI/AAAAAAAAACw/x4lWRN2NJlQ/s1600/bathbombpetalspurple.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/S7CGhXmEScI/AAAAAAAAACw/x4lWRN2NJlQ/s320/bathbombpetalspurple.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454007056573155778" border="0" /></a>ladymuckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10184726096178332732noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670013750746863128.post-75788857649549093002010-03-05T13:06:00.000-08:002010-03-05T13:25:09.709-08:00At last a gorgeous black soapWhilst mooching around my fav suppliers for new ideas I stumbled upon a Coal Tar fragrance oil. Now this is a bit like Marmite ~ you either love it or hate it ~ me I love it and have already made a load of pamper goodies for myself to try out.<br /><br />I bought some specialist Cold Process colourants a while back and after a failed attempt at a black and salmon pink marbled soap I threw them in the back of the cupboard and vowed not to look at them again ( I am known for a strop when things don't go my way ) The said salmon pink & black soap came out a lifeless grey and murky pink and ended up being grated and used to wash my floors !<br /><br />I however will not be thwarted and will strive to perfect the dreaded black soap.<br /><br />So armed with my new fragrance oil, dusty bottle of black colourant dragged from the deepest darkest depths of the cupboard and some fabby blue clay, I strode with purpose into the kitchen to create something spectacular. 5 mins later I strode back into the front room with a cuppa to work out a new recipe on soapcalc. ( The mind boggles )<br /><br />Half hour later with my creation resting in the oven I start to think that maybe just maybe I will have the perfect black soap.<br /><br />Now with the Oven Hot Cold Process method although it speeds things up I am still like an over excited child on Christmas morning and just can't wait to get the soap out of the mould and poke it and prod it. Patience is a virtue I strive to achieve daily.<br /><br />Several hours later and a nice worn foot path running from the kitchen to the front room this is what my soap looked like ......<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/S5F1mEuBXjI/AAAAAAAAACg/JA9S2PU0kOM/s1600-h/coaltar.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/S5F1mEuBXjI/AAAAAAAAACg/JA9S2PU0kOM/s320/coaltar.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445262721429888562" /></a><br />It is a true shade of black but I do need to improve my photographic skills as no matter how many angles the flash showed up on the face of the soap..."turn the flash off I hear you shout maddeningly at your screens" .... nope it was too dark in the kitchen for it to have done any justice.ladymuckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10184726096178332732noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670013750746863128.post-1847097744974563422010-03-04T01:22:00.001-08:002010-03-04T01:22:53.660-08:00Easter Prize Draw results***Easter Prize Draw***<br />Big drum rolll please .......The winner of the Easter Prize Draw is........Joanne Smith......Congratulations your Easter Goodie bag will be hopping along to you shortly.ladymuckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10184726096178332732noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670013750746863128.post-38408523952317965192010-02-12T01:41:00.000-08:002010-02-12T01:46:36.871-08:00Bath Bomb MadnessAfter a fairly stressful week ~ nothing went right ~ I plunged myself head first into supplies and set about making bath bombs with avarice.<br /><br />I made a couple of nice new ones but had a few disasters ( see I told you everything was going wrong ). My favourite of them all was my two tone kissing dolphins scented in Surf Fresh <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/S3UjDKQmUgI/AAAAAAAAACY/vjynorSwwuo/s1600-h/dolphinbathbombpurple.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/S3UjDKQmUgI/AAAAAAAAACY/vjynorSwwuo/s320/dolphinbathbombpurple.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5437290662320296450" /></a><br /><br />Am hoping that next week will be a much better week and full of cheeriness and light but just as productive.ladymuckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10184726096178332732noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670013750746863128.post-86035465414358809552010-02-04T10:35:00.000-08:002010-02-04T10:53:30.739-08:00Easter Prize Draw***Easter Prize Draw***<br /> All* website orders placed from now ( 3rd Feb ) to 3rd March will automatically be placed into a draw for a free Lady Mucks Easter goody gift bag. * one entry per customer. UK residents only. Winner will be announced on the front page of my website<br /><br />After a hectic Christmas and New Year it's time to slip back into my soaping apron and get busy with some new creations. A couple of new idea's are brewing away frantically in my head ~ just got to decide which one to do first.....<br /><br />A wider range of Shea & Coconut oil bath creamers ~ Fantastic hand creams made from a combination of skin nourishing butters and oils , these have been a huge success with friends and family aka Lady Muck's guinea pigs ~ shaving soaps, well the shaving soaps aren't an issue just the labels, the round labels !!!! I hate constructing new labels. Maybe the label fairy will come over and give me a hand ????<br /><br />A new CCCS ( Credit Card Collection Service )option has been added to the website to make paying for your orders much easier, especially if you don't have a Paypal or Google account.ladymuckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10184726096178332732noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670013750746863128.post-71246891178847354332009-12-11T03:21:00.001-08:002009-12-18T01:07:37.524-08:00Amazing Silk Tie & Cufflinks websiteWhilst trying to find a suitable place to buy a Christmas prezzie for the other half and a fancy pair of cufflinks for my Dad...I stumbled upon this site and wow...now my chappie is a bit of a designer buff and has a penchant for silk ties...check it out and have a look it definately has Lady Mucks seal of approval.<br /><br />www.stagdesigns.co.uk<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/SyIrXJ3j11I/AAAAAAAAACQ/39BExpE-VDI/s1600-h/stagwebhead3banner.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 64px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/SyIrXJ3j11I/AAAAAAAAACQ/39BExpE-VDI/s320/stagwebhead3banner.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5413937378838697810" border="0" /></a>ladymuckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10184726096178332732noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670013750746863128.post-27127487965845864692009-11-02T12:02:00.000-08:002009-11-02T12:13:07.360-08:00Winter Wonderland ??Whoosh what a hectic month. After toiling long and hard and with the big C word fastly approaching I thought I had better extend my Christmas selection.<br /><br />So armed with a new fragrance ~ Winter Wonderland ~ I headed to the kitchen to see what I could come up with.<br /><br />After a few mins smelling the fragrance and throwing red/green/white colour combos around I decided I would go for an opaque base with transparent squiggles that have glittery flecks running through it. It didn't quite turn out how I expected ( I wanted it way more sparkly ) but am still very pleased with the results. Then the FO demon came and nagged at me...." I would be much nicer if I were scented with " Ghost " ...arghhhh why why why ? but I held firm and shooed the little voice right out the back door.<br /><br />Ah the trials and tribulations. With all these fabby fragrances just waiting to be turned into soapy creations I must find more time for play.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/Su87PVwPkSI/AAAAAAAAACI/ghp2et2cv1s/s1600-h/soapwinterwonderlandpurple.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/Su87PVwPkSI/AAAAAAAAACI/ghp2et2cv1s/s320/soapwinterwonderlandpurple.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399599612964081954" /></a>ladymuckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10184726096178332732noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670013750746863128.post-18512423820974048252009-09-27T11:34:00.010-07:002009-09-28T00:12:08.986-07:00Oven Hot Cold Process Soap Gelling StageAs this is supposed to be an insight to all things soapy...it might help if I made a start on explaining certain segments of the actual soap making.<br /><br />Its all going to be hap-hazard as I truely don't believe in being totally organized and straight forward.<br /><br />This is Gelling ( see below )<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/Sr-yQbBqOQI/AAAAAAAAABo/L-EwyuhEeDw/s1600-h/gelling.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/Sr-yQbBqOQI/AAAAAAAAABo/L-EwyuhEeDw/s320/gelling.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5386219674560772354" /></a><br /><br />The opaque looking edges are where the soap has started to cool down already and starts looking like soap.<br /><br />Gelling is when the lye & oils/butters mix gets really hot and starts to evolve..it starts off turning into a transparent clear gel ( due to the heat from the chemical reaction between butters & oils & lye) and then it starts to cool down, it will turn back to an opaque colour. Once cool you can demould and cut into your bar shapes.<br /><br />I normally make mine around dinner time and once made leave until the next morning. A night in a turned off oven or in an airing cupboard will have it ready for the chop.<br /><br />This is it after a night in the mould <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/SsBhlF1yWZI/AAAAAAAAABw/yKS5qj8UISU/s1600-h/IMG_2820.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/SsBhlF1yWZI/AAAAAAAAABw/yKS5qj8UISU/s320/IMG_2820.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5386412444185942418" /></a>ladymuckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10184726096178332732noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670013750746863128.post-33912663868066197332009-09-21T13:55:00.000-07:002009-09-21T14:09:31.345-07:00Traditional Cold Process SoapWell with the big C word fastly approaching I thought I had best get my festive backside into gear and start creating a new range of goodies.<br /><br />With Cold Process soap making being my most favourite fad at the moment what better way to start.<br /><br />I have been experimenting with layers and swirls...after seeing some of the most fantastic soap creations I felt more than compelled to have a go. I have to admit that I can just about do layers and maybe a fancy swirl at the top of the loaf which blurs when it goes through the combined Oven Hot Cold Process method. Bear with me as I am sure I will get there in the end.<br /><br />Scented with Christmas Spice ( Orange , Cinnamon & Nutmeg ) and imprinted with a super cute Reindeer impression, which I have to add I am really chuffed with, here is my first tribute to the festive holiday.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/SrfqJ9Ljj8I/AAAAAAAAABQ/MNUkKj57grY/s1600-h/cpchristmasspice.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/SrfqJ9Ljj8I/AAAAAAAAABQ/MNUkKj57grY/s320/cpchristmasspice.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384029336307470274<br />" /></a><br /><br />I always find that choosing a name is one of the hardest parts of soaping....it's got to be catchy and memorable. Christmas Reindeer sounds a tad pants but other than Horny Holidays ( Which is a definate no no ) a name is yet to be found....ladymuckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10184726096178332732noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670013750746863128.post-2377046489164380432009-08-17T11:22:00.000-07:002009-08-17T11:28:39.833-07:00Chocolate Orange ~ yummyWell after a stressfull 3 weeks I decided to kick back and have a play with OHCP ( Oven Hot Cold Process )layers. A tad daunting as I had to to it at a thick trace...I don't work too well with thick traces as they induce panick. Panicking and Making Cold Process isn't the best combination.<br /><br />The brown is coloured with Cocoa powder and the Orange from one of my suppliers. There is no Chocolate fragrance just the scent from the Cocoa powder...also some Cocoa butter to add extra Chocolateyness. I can't wait for this to cure properly and have a good wash with it.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/SomgX4W7f3I/AAAAAAAAABI/jRWv29ttWpQ/s1600-h/coldprocesschocorange.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/SomgX4W7f3I/AAAAAAAAABI/jRWv29ttWpQ/s320/coldprocesschocorange.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371000362742022002" /></a>ladymuckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10184726096178332732noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670013750746863128.post-28505792974314462862009-08-06T13:15:00.000-07:002009-08-06T13:24:22.799-07:00Cold ProcessHere are some new plain coloured cold process soaps which I absolutely love....the purple one is fragranced with Lavender and the pink is Sweet Pea<br /><br />not the best of pictures but I love the alternate pink purple layers<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/Sns6cZiOImI/AAAAAAAAAA4/W_-y7UPtmdw/s1600-h/cp+pink+purple.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/Sns6cZiOImI/AAAAAAAAAA4/W_-y7UPtmdw/s320/cp+pink+purple.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366947640507245154" /></a><br /><br /><br />These are my latest additions..in truth batches gone wrong due to the total weight :0( a mad dash to sprinkle the tops with botanicals soon saved these soaps and transformed them into beauties.....these are the Palm free soaps that I have been trying to crack.<br />PH is fine and they are hardening into a really nice bar.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/Sns7Z8rCDYI/AAAAAAAAABA/sq_1Z7Kwn2U/s1600-h/IMG_2675.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/Sns7Z8rCDYI/AAAAAAAAABA/sq_1Z7Kwn2U/s320/IMG_2675.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366948697911463298" /></a><br />The creamy white is scented with Lily & Ginseng topped with Jasmine flowers and the pink is scented with Sweet Pea and topped with Lavender petals, Rose petals and Cornflowers.ladymuckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10184726096178332732noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5670013750746863128.post-69784912195038924602009-08-02T13:32:00.000-07:002009-08-02T13:39:33.865-07:00Cold Process SoapCold Process seems to be the high point of my soap making life at the moment, it's all I can think about making.... have got a few new colours to try out and have a play with.<br /><br />With some specially made cold process soap colourants a combo of black and pink seems to be the most appealing at the mo.<br /><br />Mainly pink with maybe a black swirl or vice versa or maybe I should take the plunge and try to do a something a little more complex like layers ?<br /><br />Hmmmmm maybe not yet .<br /><br />Fragrance....really want to try the JM pom noir type or Black Raspberry & Vanilla ( current fave of the decade its delicious ) BRV it is then ! here's my m & p ( melt and pour ) version <br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/SnX5Wj41d_I/AAAAAAAAAAw/nQxOPSXxGd8/s1600-h/soapbrv600.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_9EkleCri2a4/SnX5Wj41d_I/AAAAAAAAAAw/nQxOPSXxGd8/s320/soapbrv600.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365468697067878386" /></a>ladymuckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10184726096178332732noreply@blogger.com0