Soap Making

[SaltySeaWitch]

I make Cold Process Herbal Soap, chap stick, lotions, and pretty much any and everything natural from herbs and essential oils. Not sure how to manage it in a van because of storing items and needing a place to cure my soaps, but I am sure I will find a way. Any other soapers out there? If so, how do you make soap while van dwelling? I could make it outside and then just find a way to cure and store it. Shouldn't be too hard unless I make enough to sell which I kind of would like to do.

 

[highdesertranger]

that's so cool. I have looked into it but never tried. I am going to try using Yucca when I get a chance. have you ever used Yucca. highdesertranger

 

[WriterMs]

SSW,
If you decide you want to produce to sell, you may need to consider a very small cargo trailer to tow behind your van. Once you figure out how much space your soap-making equipment and supplies would take up, then you'd have to plan for your table or tables, signage for use at flea markets/artisan shows, etc.

There are a few women on the site who produce and sell artwork as they travel. So I bet you'll have some of them chime in with more ideas.

 

[Gary68]

i warm up the coconut oil,toss in some baking soda and a couple drops of cinnamon oil or what ever for tooth paste,the store stuff makes my cheek
skin peal

would be interested in your soaps

Saltyseawitch-awesome screen name

 

[SaltySeaWitch]

Highdesertranger.....haven't tried yucca yet but have read up on it. I will be experimenting with different things grown where I travel. Love the idea of that too.

WriterMs.... That is what my mom suggested but since the largest thing I have ever driven is a full size p/u, I dont want to start towing right away. My parents said they will teach me when I get ready. I looked into buying a diesel mini school bus and I love them! They could be my perfect little house/work on wheels so easy! But....I am worried about MPG. I am (as of right now) planning to try and get some workamping jobs the 1st year while I make stuff to sell and then either buy a bigger vehicle or learn to tow a small trailer. Maybe get some wanderlust out so I am not driving as far and then get the short bus. I should ask around on here about the short bus I guess. So many decisions.....

Gary68....I couldn't think of a van dwelling name so Salty Sea Witch was a name I had planned for a jewelry and soap biz if I moved back to Florida. I love anything ocean themed. My van will be decked out tropically. I don't care lol. Sounds like a boat dwelling name not a van but I still like it. I would totally buy a sail boat and live on it if I knew how to sail though! It's on the Bucket List of things to learn lol

I started making soap when my oldest son developed really bad acne and I read the side effects of the meds he was put on. That was maybe 15 or 16 years ago and he has never had skin problems since unless he uses store bought soap. I just had a knack for it and fell in love with making it. I send it wherever he roams (He is Army). It is amazing how much better it is for your skin. Next time I make some I will let you know and try to send you some, or try or meet up if we are in the same place. it will be a while though because I am trying to sell my house so I packed up all my stuff.

Smart making your own toothpaste btw. There is so much bad stuff in our food and health products!

 

[buckwilk]

Sea, when you get your van hopefully it will have a tow package with a 2 in. receiver. If not they can easily be added. Then you get a receiver hitch cargo tray, here http://www.northerntool.com/shop/to...rs-ladder-racks+receiver-hitch-cargo-carriers A few tubs and you're golden.

 

[Almost There]

SSW, you might want to consider getting a high top van not just for the standing height (which I wouldn't be without) but also so that you have a lot more storage room.

If you end up with a full size van and it doesn't have a high top, one can always be added to it.

I'm carrying all my regular stuff, all my backpacking/canoe gear plus 2 sewing machine cases, cutting board, fabric I wanted for this winter and all the normal accumulation of sewing gear. Oh, and I also packed all the tools and everything but the wood from my build so that I can finish the build and hand out all the darned boxes of left over screws to whoever needs them....

And to my surprise, it all fit in the storage compartments I built in to the van. No moving stuff around every time I want in to some where!

I've never made soap but I can't help but think that if there's a will, there's a way!

 

[SaltySeaWitch]

I agree on the high top van. The extra storage (soap or not) just seems like it would be so useful. I am only 5'1", maybe 5'2" but want to be able to stand up too.

Thanks for the good tips everyone.

Buckwilk.... thanks for the link. Checking it out now. Shape shifter? Are you a Supernatural fan?

 

[buckwilk]

There's nothing supernatural about shape shifting. (<;

 

[SaltySeaWitch]

I carry silver bullets just in case

 

[Sabatical]

My bride makes hot process soap with a crock pot. 1 day cure time and far less storage space = life is good [WINKING FACE]

 

[SaltySeaWitch]

Thanks Sabatical. I have done HP from time to time but I am hooked on my CP soap. The whole creating something from scratch. It is like art to me. I'm sure I will find a way. Does your bride make it to sell or just for personal use?

 

[Sabatical]

Most of it ends up being gifted although occasionally she'll take a couple dollars a bar to help cover expenses.
If you're gonna be in AZ this winter (RTR and beyond) i'm sure you two can share notes.

 

[SaltySeaWitch]

I am hoping to make it to RTR (and stay awhile) and would love to meet her!

 

[buckwilk]

( Silver bullets ) Interesting, you know something about native american beliefs. That puts you way outside the norm. Cool!

 

[SaltySeaWitch]

View attachment 5218
I've been told I was way outside the norm a time or two lol

 

[debit.servus]

I desire to learn how to form my own soaps, so I can form my niche soap style. Then sell it as a means to pull money while on the road.

 

[SaltySeaWitch]

debit.service..... a good book to learn with (and that I keep to this day) is "The Soap Makers Companion". Everything you need to know to get started making soap. I warn you it is addictive I love it!

 

[debit.servus]

I desire to learn how to form my own soaps, so I can form my niche soap style. Then sell it as a means to pull money while on the road.
Duplicate post, please delete.

 

[buckwilk]

Sea, what flavors do you make your soaps in ? Do you make different colors, sizes, smells, tastes ? Do you make bars or liquids ? If I use them will they make me younger, smarter, better looking, nicer, kinder or just more erudite.