Wash Up With Soap You Make

Fri., Sept. 1, 2000

By Kandis Carper kandisc@spokesman.com

When I think of soap making, images of my Irish immigrant ancestors come to mind, but according to the Hobby Industry Association, homemade soap is a hot new trend.

Using a variety of ingredients, scents, colors and molds, crafters can personalize soaps to match home decor or to give as gifts.

Soap-making supplies, complete kits and instructions for different soaps, ranging from rosemary-scented shells to botanical herbal bars, can be found at craft stores.

Here is a basic recipe for soap from craft publisher Design Originals. Instructions: Cut glycerin soap in 1-inch cubes. Heat in microwave bowl at 20-second intervals until melted, or melt in double boiler. Add a very small amount of color and fragrance. Stir melted soap slowly with a stick or spoon to prevent bubbles. Cool for 3-4 minutes until steaming stops.

Pour slowly into mold of choice. Cool for 10-30 minutes, until hard. Pop out soap from mold. (For easy removal, place in refrigerator for a few minutes, then run hot water on bottom of mold.)

Soap or candy molds, even cookie cutters, can be used to create unique shapes.

* Back to school: During September, Inland Northwest Home Depot stores will offer the following free clinics: How to Select Carpet (Fridays at 7 p.m.); How to Install Ceramic Tile (Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m.-noon); How to Install Security Lighting (Saturdays at 1 p.m.); How to Install Gutters (Saturdays at 2 p.m.); How to Install Pergo Flooring (Sundays from 1-3 p.m.); and How to Install Natural Wood Flooring (Sundays at 3 p.m.). The stores are located at 5101 E. Sprague, and 9116 N. Newport Highway in Spokane and 220 W. Kathleen in Coeur d’Alene.

* Speaking of classes: The Seniors Program at the Community Colleges of Spokane is offering a Home Decor Crafts class Tuesday through Nov. 14 from either 2-4 p.m. or 7-9 p.m. at Liberty Park United Methodist Church, 1526 E. 11th. The cost of the class, including supplies, is $39. For more information call 533-3393.

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