Title: Layering Soap
Categories: Soap *
Yield: 1 Batch

TEXT ONLY

Layering is easy once you get the hang of it and the effect can be striking. Just as it sounds, layering is achieved by pouring layers of soap on top of one another.

1. Plan a design for the colored layers you will use, from bottom to top. Use a much larger soap mold to accommodate the many soap layers, or divide your recipe in half or thirds for each color of soap.

2. Using the Soap Essentials Bar II formula, prepare the bottom layer of soap at your preferred soapmaking temperature. For a quick setup, it is critical that the soap is stirred just until definite trailings can be left on the surface. Quickly and thoroughly add desired scent; then pour into soapmaking mold. Place the mold on a thick comforter or blanket, cover with a tight-fitting top, and wrap with the comforter for good warm insulation.

3. Continue preparing and adding layers to the soap tray (waiting at least 1 1/2 hours between layers, checking first for suffiecient resistance), rewrapping the tray each time, until your final layer has undergone its full insulation period. Though the bottom layers can tolerate a few days enclosed in insulation, it is best to allow a more normal insulation period for each layer; once the final layer has been poured, allow the entire mass of soap to rest undisturbed under wrap for a full 12 to 18 hours.

4. Trim and cure bars as usual.

Source: "The Soapmaker's Companion" by Susan Miller Cavitch

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