Natural Soap: Techniques and Recipes for Beautiful Handcrafted Soaps, Lotions, and Balms (IMM Lifestyle Books)

In addition to the beautifully laid-out photos and the clarity and logical sequencing of content, Melinda Coss goes the extra mile in describing the importance of selecting ingredients. For example, she included a discussion on the importance of considering ecological & sustainability concerns when purchasing carrier oils and other natural ingredient from reputable suppliers. For me, this issue and fair trade practices are very important.Beyond the usual discussions of the qualities and constituencies of commonly used carrier oils & waxes, Ms. Coss also included important information related to endocrine, hormonal and cellular health impacts of psuedo-natural, and synthetic ingredients frequently used by both commercial and home soap makers to enhance specific qualities such lathering, foaming, creaminess, conditioning, and hardness. Specifically discussed are Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLeS), Parabens, DEA and Borax among others.This book offers good practical suggestions as well as scientific advice on soap crafting. For example, when explaining the process of saponification and its effect on skin-nutrient ingredients in carrier oils the author suggests investing wisely in lower-grade carrier oils like olive pomace instead of extra-virgin, first processed olive oil because pomace produces a better lather and perhaps even a harder bar. On the other hand, as most soap-makers are probably aware, certain oils like Jojoba (a wax), Borage Seed,oil and Emu are very expensive and should be used in small amounts or reserved for use in lotions & creams for which there are also wonderful recipes in the book.Of course, the author includes wonderful cold-process soap recipes and an excellent listing of reputable suppliers, some of which are U.K. based while others are located in the U.S. Unfortunately, some like Snowdriftfarms.com are no longer in business. I can personally attest to the quality of service and professional reputations of many resources included on the U.S. based portion of the list.Lastly, the author also provides helpful information on selling, marketing, advertising, promoting and packaging your soaps.I highly recommend "Natural Soap: Techniques and Recipes for Beautiful Handcrafted Soaps" to anyone interested in the craft whether for personal use or for professional development.

Basic, direct to the point with a touch of the author's personality. It's like doing the soap with Melinda beside me.

I love this book and constantly go back to it when needed. Very informative and is a must have. Has sections on lotions balms an also liquid soap making as well as cold process soap making. Thanks!

Good service, will buy again

Lots of good info and lovely photos. Interesting recipes not found elsewhere (looking forward to trying the Fig & Honey one someday). Word of caution - double check the math on figuring out how much lye is needed when creating your own recipes. She says that 20oz of oil equals 500g, which works out to 25g/oz. Last I knew, the conversion was closer to 28.35g/oz.

I really enjoyed reading this book. It's full of great information and great pictures. I'm very glad I bought it.

Fantastic book! It's very informative in terms of the soap making process, and natural ingredients alike. Great for beginner and intermediate soap makers. A plus, the illustrations in this book are beautiful and vibrant. I will be buying another one shortly for my cousin, this book is a must have. Don't let the lack of feedback stop you from buying this book!

I have not made any of the recipes yet, but they look interesting.

This book is very clear, the information is easy to read and the illustrations are helpful and productive. I love the passion of the author.

MARVELOUS BOOK, VERY HELPFUL