4 pounds lard
In a large iron kettle or enamel pot,
13 oz lye
5 cups cold water
1 tablespoon lavender oil
1 tablespoon patchouli oil
1 cup fresh strawberry juice
1/4 cup dried soap bark herb
(optional)
melt the lard over very low heat.
In as
separate pot, stir together the lye and
the water.
Heat lard until small bubbles
begin to appear, but do not boil.
Remove
from heat and slowly pour the lye
solution into the lard.
With a large
wooden spoon, stir in the lavender and
patchouli oils,
the strawberry juice and
soap bark herb.
Simmer for about 30
minutes, stirring frequently.
Pour into
2-inch greased pan and allow to cool 24
hours.
Cut the soap into squares and
leave in the pan
for at least 72 hours
before removing.
Place the soap bars
on waxed paper
and allow them to cure in
a draft free area
for at least 4 weeks
before using.