Tutorials on soapmaking, bath fizzies, lotions and more
My friend Jody recently told me that she uses Ylang Ylang and Frankincense Essential Oil instead of regular aluminum-based deodorant. It sounded like an interesting idea. After all, there are some very limited links to Alzheimer's and aluminum. Though the links aren't conclusive, if something all … Continue Reading
I had the privilege of teaching a sold out goatsmilk soapmaking class at Otion. We had nine students who came from all over the Pacific Northwest to learn the technical aspects of goatsmilk soapmaking. Here I am, measuring out the lye. This class had a particularly joyous time … Continue Reading
This necklace is going to be my reward for reaching a stretch goal. A stretch goal is something that's achievable, but only through a large amount of effort, dedication, follow-through and maybe a bit of luck. You can even personalize the necklace here. Goals should be achievable through daily … Continue Reading
Bob Parson's 16 Rules: Get and stay out of your comfort zone. I believe that not much happens of any significance when we're in our comfort zone. I hear people say, "But I'm concerned about security." My response to that is simple: "Security is for cadavers." Never give up. Almost … Continue Reading
Enter to win a gift set of Organic Fusion products here. Scroll mid way down the page, it's about 2/3 down on the blog. Rare Bird Findsis one of my favorite blogs. I read it at least once per week to keep up on cool indie finds. The best soap supplies on the internet are found at Bramble Berry. … Continue Reading
Donna Maria from the Indie Business Blog has written an article about how to get your products into the hands of beauty bloggers. Click here to read this informative, helpful article and ramp up your press coverage today! The best soap supplies on the internet are found at Bramble Berry. Click here … Continue Reading
Craftzine has added to their fun crochet tutorial. If you've never crocheted or knitted, this is the time to start learning. Needlework can be done at any time when you're not actively driving or using your hands. My favorite time to knit is when on long plane flights, during movies or as a … Continue Reading
Jelly Belly's got fragrance! Doesn't this fragrance description of their Wild Blackberry & Peach Cobbler blend sound delicious? Wild Blackberry Peach Cobbler is a light, sheer fruit and citrus fragrance with unusual body and depth. The depth comes from the wild blackberry, which is the … Continue Reading
I recently received this question from Karen. The question is a serious one involving business and liability insurance. My response to her is below the question. hi! say i want to make a real strawberries and cream soap(actually i did in Mexico where there are few rules and regulations for soap … Continue Reading
Love to Know Crafts recently did an interview with me. The interview is on their site now. You can go read it here. Reader's Digest, the October Issue, has a very nice little article about Bramble Berry and the importance of following your dreams and passions. It's on newsstands now. The article … Continue Reading
I got this note a while back from Kelly S. in NYC. I was a bit bummed to see that you ship using Styrofoam peanuts especially after reading your Social Responsibility commitment. Is there any way you can use a different packing method? First of all, I really appreciate Kelly for writing. So many … Continue Reading
The New Yorker has an informative article about adulterated olive oil. If you make soap, getting a mislabeled oil could cause your recipe to be significantly lye heavy or short. Click here to read the article. An excerpt from the article: In 1997 and 1998, olive oil was the most adulterated … Continue Reading
Thank you to Deb G for sending me this link to Choco Choco House in MA. Oh how I wish I was visiting MA, at least for a time long enough to jet over to their shops, inhale a cupcake and take a pack of the handbags to go. Aliya's real claim to fame is her chocolate handbags. The handbags are so … Continue Reading
A few weeks ago, my dear friend Amy (that's her, 2nd from the right in the red top) turned... Well, she had a special birthday. Rather than the traditional party, Amy planned an entire weekend around strong women. She designed a trust walk around a local lake, an evening of sharing (complete with … Continue Reading