Equipment
You need less than you think to make your first batch. Here are the essentials — the full guide, with everything I actually use and where to get it, is coming in September 2026.
A digital scale
Everything in soapmaking is weighed, never measured by volume. A scale that reads to a single gram is enough.
A stick blender
The cheapest one will do. Bringing a batch to trace by hand takes hours; with a stick blender, it takes minutes.
Heatproof containers
You'll need separate containers for your lye solution and oils. Stainless steel, #5 polypropylene, and heat-proof glass are all good choices — with glass, check it for cloudiness or chips before each use and replace it once it looks frosted. Never use aluminum, tin, or zinc.
A mold
A silicone loaf mold is the easiest place to start. A lined wooden box works just as well.
Silicone spatulas
Keep them dedicated to soapmaking rather than sharing them with the kitchen.
Safety gear
Sealed splash goggles, gloves that extend past the wrist, long sleeves, closed shoes, and an N95 respirator when handling dry lye. This part isn't optional.
Every recipe I sell includes its own equipment checklist, so you know exactly what that batch needs before you start. Before you make anything, please read the lye safety guide.
The full guide is on its way
Coming September 2026. In the meantime, the recipes have everything you need to get started.