Two weeks into the new year and we're off to a running start. I've kept up with the S.M.A.R.T. goals I set for myself this year (thank you Carrot app, my VitaMix and Bellingham-based Dandelion produce delivery). I'm excited to track my progress along with everyone else who told me about their goals. … Continue Reading
S.O.A.P. Panel-ers revealed
Thank you to everyone who Tweeted, Pinned, Instagrammed and Facebooked entries to be part of the 2014 S.O.A.P. Panel. We are truly surrounded by a community of talented crafters, and it was difficult to whittle more than 90 entries down to just eight panel members. After much debate, we … Continue Reading
Facebook Photo of the Week (January 11th ~ January 17th)
This week we made two exciting announcements, including the winners of our S.M.A.R.T. Goals Post. Thanks again to everyone who shared their 2014 goals with us -- we had such a fun time reading them. We also announced the beginning of our 2014 Soap Swap! In case you are unfamiliar with our Soap … Continue Reading
Cherry Blossom Glitter Cold Process
This is quick and easy cold process recipe doubles as a way to recycle scrap cold process bars. Simply shred bars with a cheese grater and you've got a great way to embellish freshly made cold process soap. This soap was fragranced with Cherry Blossom Fragrance Oil, which moves quickly (totally … Continue Reading
Soap Swap Extravaganza: Winter 2014
Soap swaps are one of the most popular things on the Soap Queen Blog. Whether you're a new soaper and want to learn, or an experienced soaper looking to get inspired with new ingredient options, there's something for soapers at all experience levels. Our Soap Swap is a great way to discover new … Continue Reading
Honey Kisses Sheer Lipstick Tutorial
I have a favorite sheer lip tint from a large department store brand that I've loved for years. It routinely makes 'Best Of' lists in magazines; it's a classic, beloved by most. And, every time I fork over $15 for this luxury indulgence, I feel a twinge of guilt. After all, I can (and should!) make … Continue Reading
S.M.A.R.T. Goals Winners + coupon
It's been two weeks since I asked everyone what their S.M.A.R.T. Goals were for this year. Wow, the post was flooded with responses; over than 250 responses. Reading everyone's goals for the year was inspiring! There were so many excellent goals that it was a difficult decision to choose just … Continue Reading
Sunday Night Spotlight: Sparkling Fragrances
New Year's Eve may be over, but there's no reason to put away the sparkling beverages (or fragrances) quite yet. In fact, you may want these two effervescent fragrances on hand all year round! Ginger Ale and Champagne Fragrance Oils are both bright "sparkling" fragrances that enhance almost any … Continue Reading
Facebook Photo of the Week (January 4th ~ January 10th)
Looking to to get your soap in tip-top shape to sell? Of course having a quality product is crucial, but it also must please the eye. This quick video shows you how to put together our cute and sturdy cardboard soap boxes that give your products a professional look. Looking for more packaging … Continue Reading
How to Make the Perfect Peacock Swirl in Cold Process Soap
In this episode of Soap Queen TV, I redeem myself. In case you don't remember, I posted a video on how to do the Peacock Swirl in cold process soap and although the soap turned out nice, it wasn't a great example of the peacock swirl design. So I designed a set of tools to help me do it perfectly … Continue Reading
Searching for S.O.A.P. Panel members
Let’s ring in the New Year with a brand new S.O.A.P. panel team. Don’t know what S.O.A.P. is? Check out this mash up post to learn more about it and check out our spring 2013 team here. We are looking for the newest fragrances to add the Bramble Berry lineup and we want your help again! For the next … Continue Reading
On Assembling Soap Boxes
Beautiful handcrafted soap? ✔ Check. A schedule of craft shows, list of farmers' markets, or growing Etsy shop? ✔ Check. Equally lovely packaging to go with your equally lovely soaps? Uh-oh! Many crafters may not realize it, but the way products are packaged influence a consumer to buy just as much … Continue Reading
Using Botanical Names in Ingredient Lists
If you've set a goal to start selling your soaps at craft fairs, farmer's markets or online this year, this labeling information is valuable. Knowing how to label your items for sale is not only part of selling best practices, it's also required by law! Marie Gale, a blogger friend and cosmetic … Continue Reading
Sunday Night Spotlight: Flavoring Oils
With so many folks throughout the country right now in such extreme cold weather conditions, it is important protect your skin and your lips. In any weather, balm protection is key to keeping your lips hydrated and protected to avoid chapping and cracking. So why not have some fun in creating your … Continue Reading