[2] BASIC LAYERED MAP BAR (Opaque Soap Base)
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Measure mold for volume. [See "HOW MUCH TO USE".]
Cut soap cubes from block.
Place 1/2 (or desired amount) of total soap cubes in microwave-safe measuring cup.
Microwave for 15 to 20 seconds
Remove and stir with craft stick.
If still partially solid, microwave for another 15 to 20 seconds, placing cup on a paper plate. (Repeat as needed until soap is completely melted.)
Remove and stir with craft stick.
Add fragrance and colorant.
Stir with craft stick and "engage patience".
Continue stirring gently (so air bubbles aren't as apt to develop) until color and fragrance are blended AND continue stirring (so a film won't form) until steam is no longer visible. If you pour still-steaming, melted soap into the mold, chances are good that you will warp the mold.
With mold on a level pouring surface, pour soap into mold until half-full or at the desired depth/thickness.
Mist with alcohol to remove air bubbles. Though this is a good step to use consistently after pouring, it's not strictly necessary here as this is not the final layer and any air bubbles will not be seen in the final product. That said, a light spritzing can also aid in the adherence of one layer to another.
Pour any leftovers into a cube compartment of a sturdy ice cube tray.
Try peeling remnants from the measuring cup or rinse clean in hot water.
Place remaining soap cubes in microwave-safe measuring cup.
Repeat steps 4 through 10 above (as with first layer).
As the mold was NOT moved or placed in the freezer, return to the mold and pour soap into mold until full.
Mist second layer with alcohol to remove air bubbles. Several sprays may be needed.
Pour any leftovers into a cube compartment of a sturdy ice cube tray.
Leave soap mold on the pouring surface until a healthy film has formed (about 10 to 15 minutes, depending on room temperature).
Move mold to a level space in the freezer and set timer for 20 minutes. Again, if you use clear soap for even one of the layers, do not use the freezer set method because it will cloud your soap.
Try peeling remnants from the measuring cup or rinse clean in hot water. Peeled remnants can be put in the same ice cube compartment.
At timer alarm, check soap by gently pressing center for hardness.
If soap is totally firm and cool, remove mold from freezer.
Invert the mold close to and above a clean surface and press in the center to release the soap. Successful release from a deep mold may take both time and practice.
If soap does not readily release, set timer for 10 minutes and return mold to freezer.
Once unmolded, allow soap to air dry until dry to the touch.
Wrap in clear plastic cling wrap or use immediately.
Label and make notes regarding process so soap can be re-created later.
You will find that you use the layering techniques (or a variation thereof) for many projects, so it's a good technique to try and master.
These simple, two-layer bars were made from the same recipe as the Basic Bars previously covered. (Left-to-Right) They are combinations of Blueberry and Lime; Lime and Cherry; Cherry and Blueberry scented soaps.
It was mentioned, under "HOW TO BLEND FRAGRANCES", that you can call on cooking, desserts and treats when it comes to blending fragrances. I am a big fan of Cherry-Limeades and the Cherry and Lime combination in soap is wonderful. The citrusy tartness of the lime fragrance beautifully offsets the heavier sweetness of both the Cherry and Blueberry fragrances. On the other hand, the Cherry and Blueberry combination, although a bit sweet for my taste, will certainly appeal to a younger "sweet-tooth"!
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© 2011 NORMA W. THOMAS. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Basic Techniques
