Smaller pieces will melt more quickly. For reference, 4 oz (110 g) of melted-down glycerin soap will make 3 bars of muffin-sized soap. [1] X Research source Glycerin soap can be found at most craft stores and online. Look in the soap making section. [2] X Research source Choose a suspension formula glycerin soap if you plan to add in heavier herbs and flowers.
You could use a double-boiler instead, if you prefer. Be careful when moving the container in and out of the microwave. The glycerin will be very hot!
If you’re using dried lavender, add lavender essential oils. Pair other dried herbs with other aromas, like eucalyptus, bergamot, geranium, juniper, lemongrass, rosemary, ylang-ylang, or a citrus essential oil. The possibilities are endless! Don’t go overboard when adding essential oils. If you add too much to your soap, the essential oils will cause skin irritation. Your soap recipe should never contain more than 3% essential oils. Certain oils shouldn’t be used for more than 1% of the soap. Do you research and, when in doubt, use less than you think you need. [5] X Research source
Small flecks of these dried herbs will give your soap an all-over speckly consistency, with little dark specs throughout. [6] X Research source Prepare roughly 3 US tbsp (44 mL) of dried herbs for each 4 oz (110 g) of glycerin used. [7] X Research source
If your chosen herbs or flowers have a top side, place them top-down into the molds. This works especially well if you start with a clear glycerin soap base. Try using whole sprigs of dried herbs or laying out individual leaves into a pattern. Avoid mixing whole herbs into the liquid glycerin. The dried leaves will rehydrate when you start using the soap, and you don’t want to find yourself lathering a slimy leaf!
Dried flower petals can look pretty in handmade soaps. Try hibiscus, rose, lavender, chamomile, goldenrod, and calendula (not to be confused with marigolds). [9] X Research source Try using dried plants such as eucalyptus leaves or dried citrus peels to add fragrance and color to your soap. Steer clear from non-edible and toxic flowers like dahlias, oleanders, foxgloves, or lily of the valley. If you’re not sure about the safety of a particular plant, research it online or refer to a botanical safety guidebook.
The only plants you should try fresh are lavender, rosemary, and thyme. The leaves of these herbs are pretty dry to begin with, and they can look attractive when used whole at the top of the soap. Avoid mixing them into the liquid glycerin, though.
Silicone baking cups, ice cube trays, and soap molds are the best choice since they’ll easily release your finished bars of soap. If you’re using a metal muffin tin, prepare it with a thin layer of cooking oil first. [11] X Research source
Make sure you leave the soap molds on a level surface so your soap bars don’t set unevenly.
Store your soap in a layer of plastic wrap or an airtight container while it’s not in use. When you’re using a bar of soap, keep it on a ventilated soap dish to prevent it from soaking in too much moisture. [15] X Research source Keep in mind that exposure to excess heat may cause your soap to have a shorter shelf life, since the glycerin base is designed to melt. If you’ve used whole dried herbs, keep an eye on them as you start to use your soap since they may rehydrate. Dispose of the whole sprigs once they come loose to prevent mold from growing.
