What to do with leftover soap pieces (a few pieces)
- I use my leftover soap to make homemade laundry soap. In a large container, I use a half gallon cup with a handle, fill with very hot water, shave the leftover soap into water, add 1/2 cup washing soda (available in most stores) 1/4 cup of 20 mule team borax. If you have hard water, add a few drops of tea tree oil, and stir until all is dissolved. Cover with top. Cools down to a jelly, add more water if too thick.
Use 3 or 4 scoops for large load.
Depending on family size, the washing soda and borax should make quite a few batches, saving you a lot of money.
- You can also collect left over pieces in a small plastic tub - rectangular best. I call it hobo soap. From craft store, buy a container of vegetable base or goats milk soap base, cut base into chunks and melt in microwave, I use a medium size measuring cup 30 sec. at a time until melted. Add essential oil of your choice, stir, pour over left over pieces- let cool, release from mold and slice.
Source: I learned from instructions in the ebook, The Handcrafter's Companion at http://squidoo.com/thehandcrafterscompanion.
Also bought a book on essential oils and used tips from other soap makers. A true crafter is always willing to share their recipes and I am happy to do so.
By Debra from Oxford, Michigan
