Episode 49: Multi-Masking with Sea Clay, Turmeric, and Lavender in Soapmaking: Tips and Demonstrations
E49 • Dec 28, 2024 • 3 minsIn episode 49 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola welcomes listeners to a special session on soapmaking and multi-masking. The episode begins with an introduction to the art of multi-masking, a technique for addressing different skin needs simultaneously. Anne-Marie demonstrates the preparation and application of sea clay and turmeric clay masks, followed by guidance on using and removing a soothing lavender clay mask. She encourages listeners to share their own multi-masking combinations and tips, fostering a sense of community and creativity. The episode concludes with closing remarks and soapmaking inspiration, motivating listeners to explore new possibilities in their skincare routines.
Episode 48: Benefits and Uses of Activated Charcoal in Soapmaking: Tips, Recipes, and Mess-Free Techniques
E48 • Dec 24, 2024 • 4 minsIn episode 48 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola introduces the intriguing world of activated charcoal, starting with an overview of its benefits in soapmaking. She discusses how this versatile ingredient can be used for various skin types and addresses specific skin challenges. The episode provides guidance on incorporating and testing activated charcoal in both soap and emulsified projects, along with practical tips for a mess-free experience and achieving rich, dark colors. Anne-Marie wraps up the episode with inspiring charcoal recipe ideas, encouraging listeners to experiment with this dynamic ingredient in their soap creations.
Episode 47: Exploring Kokum Butter: Versatile Uses in Soap, Skincare, Scrubs, and Bath Bombs
E47 • Dec 19, 2024 • 4 minsIn episode 47 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola dives into the versatile world of kokum butter. The episode begins with an introduction to kokum butter, exploring its unique properties and various applications in skincare. Anne-Marie discusses how to effectively incorporate kokum butter into cold process soap, enhancing its moisturizing qualities. She also covers the benefits of adding kokum butter to scrubs and bath bombs, offering tips for achieving the best results. The episode wraps up with a conclusion and listener engagement, encouraging feedback and sharing experiences with kokum butter in soapmaking and skincare.
Episode 46: Discovering Kukui Nut Oil: Benefits and Uses in Soapmaking
E46 • Dec 18, 2024 • 5 minsIn episode 46 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola introduces listeners to the wonders of kukui nut oil and its unique properties. The episode begins with a warm welcome and an overview of kukui nut oil, highlighting its nourishing benefits and potential uses in soapmaking and other personal care products. Anne-Marie shares insights on effectively incorporating this versatile oil into your soap recipes, enhancing the quality and appeal of the final product. The episode includes listener engagement and feedback, providing a platform for community interaction. It concludes with closing remarks and gratitude for listener support.
Episode 45: Using Local Ingredients, Fruits, Vegetables, and Honey in Soapmaking
E45 • Dec 17, 2024 • 3 minsIn episode 45 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola welcomes listeners and introduces the theme of exploring local ingredients and alternatives in soapmaking. She delves into the creative possibilities of incorporating fruits, vegetables, and honey into soap recipes, discussing their benefits and how they can enhance the final product. The episode concludes with closing remarks, offering inspiration and encouragement for soapmakers to experiment and innovate with these natural elements.
Episode 44: Enhancing Your Soap with Local Ingredients, Honey, and Purees
E44 • Dec 14, 2024 • 3 minsIn episode 44 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola explores the advantages of incorporating local ingredients into soapmaking. The episode begins with an introduction and overview, highlighting the benefits of using locally-sourced components to enhance soap quality and sustainability. Anne-Marie discusses alternative liquids and additives, offering insights into their unique properties and effects on soap. She delves into the incorporation of honey and purees, providing tips for successfully integrating these natural elements into your soap recipes. The episode concludes with listener engagement and closing remarks, encouraging continued exploration and creativity in soapmaking.
Episode 43: Soapmaking with Fresh Ingredients: Sourcing, Testing, and Best Practices
E43 • Dec 13, 2024 • 4 minsIn episode 43 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola delves into the art of using fresh ingredients in soapmaking. The episode kicks off with a welcome and an introduction to the benefits and challenges of incorporating fresh, locally-sourced ingredients into your soap recipes. Anne-Marie emphasizes the importance of researching and sourcing these ingredients effectively. She discusses the nuances of water discount and temperature control when working with fresh components to ensure optimal soap quality. The episode also highlights best practices such as small batch testing and experimentation, encouraging listeners to explore and refine their soapmaking techniques with fresh ingredients.
Episode 42: Preparing for Your First Soap Market: Setup, Display, and Selling Tips
E42 • Dec 12, 2024 • 8 minsIn episode 42 of Soapmaking 101, Anne-Marie Faiola guides listeners through preparing for a soap market. She covers essential supplies, product selection strategies, and tips for efficient transportation. Learn about space-saving techniques, the benefits of using a trailer, and creating eye-catching vertical displays. Anne-Marie emphasizes practicing setups at home and sourcing display items creatively. The episode wraps up with final tips on patience, understanding customer needs, and encouragement for aspiring soap sellers.
Episode 41: Soapmaking in Small Spaces: Creative Storage and Crafting Solutions
E41 • Dec 11, 2024 • 4 minsIn episode 41, Anne-Marie Faiola explores the challenges and solutions of soapmaking in small spaces. The episode starts with an introduction to the unique considerations of crafting in limited areas. Anne-Marie shares strategies for maximizing storage and creatively using living spaces for soaping activities. She discusses how to utilize various home areas for both crafting and storing supplies, offering innovative and unconventional storage ideas. The episode wraps up by highlighting the enjoyable aspects of managing soapmaking storage, encouraging listeners to embrace creativity and resourcefulness in their soapmaking journey, regardless of space constraints.
Episode 40: Exploring Fizzy Bath Bomb Ingredients: Recipes, Experiments, and Best Practices
E40 • Dec 10, 2024 • 3 minsIn episode 40 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola introduces the fascinating world of bath bomb crafting. The episode begins with a warm welcome and an introduction to the basics of bath bomb ingredients, focusing on a common recipe. Anne-Marie then delves into experiments with alternative fizzy ingredients, exploring their effects on bath bomb performance and fizz. She concludes with insights on the best fizzy ingredients for bath bomb enthusiasts. The episode wraps up with additional resources for further exploration, engaging community interactions, and closing remarks, inspiring listeners to experiment and refine their bath bomb creations.
Episode 39: Mastering Trace in Soapmaking: Techniques, History, and Prevention Tips
E39 • Dec 7, 2024 • 3 minsIn episode 39, Anne-Marie Faiola delves into the concept of "trace" in soapmaking. The episode begins with an introduction to trace, explaining its significance in the soapmaking process. Anne-Marie guides listeners in understanding and achieving different levels of trace, offering techniques to manipulate it effectively. She provides a historical background on the term "trace" and its evolution in the soapmaking community. The episode also covers how to identify and prevent false trace, a common pitfall for soapmakers. Anne-Marie concludes with a recap of key points and offers additional resources for further learning, along with closing remarks and words of encouragement for soapmaking enthusiasts.
Episode 38: Moringa Seed Oil in Soapmaking: Benefits and Incorporation Techniques
E38 • Dec 6, 2024 • 5 minsIn episode 38, Anne-Marie Faiola welcomes listeners and introduces the focus on moringa seed oil. She begins by exploring the numerous benefits of moringa seed oil, emphasizing its nourishing properties and suitability for soap and skincare formulations. Anne-Marie provides practical insights on how to incorporate this versatile oil into various products, highlighting its advantages for enhancing soap quality and skincare routines. The episode wraps up with a reminder for listeners to subscribe to the podcast, ensuring they stay updated with future episodes and continue their journey in soapmaking and natural skincare.
Episode 37: Tea-Infused Oils in Soapmaking: Selection, Methods, and Benefits
E37 • Dec 5, 2024 • 4 minsIn episode 37 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola introduces listeners to the art of tea-infused oils in soapmaking. The episode begins with a warm welcome and an overview of selecting oils, highlighting the benefits of tea infusion. Anne-Marie discusses the differences between cold and hot oil infusion methods, providing a detailed, step-by-step guide to creating a green tea oil infusion. She explains the role of tea-infused oils in enhancing soap properties and scents. The episode wraps up with engaging listener interactions and closing remarks, offering practical insights and inspiration for soapmakers interested in incorporating tea-infused oils into their creations.
Episode 36: The Allure of Lavender in Soapmaking: History, Varieties, and DIY Spa Ideas
E36 • Dec 3, 2024 • 5 minsIn episode 36, Anne-Marie Faiola introduces listeners to the captivating world of lavender in soapmaking. The episode begins with an exploration of lavender's rich history and its diverse uses throughout the ages. Anne-Marie then transitions to discussing the prevalence of lavender in modern-day products, sharing creative DIY spa ideas to incorporate this beloved scent. She provides a detailed overview of various lavender essential oils, highlighting their unique characteristics. The episode also features engaging listener stories that celebrate personal connections to the scent of lavender. Anne-Marie wraps up with expressions of gratitude, leaving listeners with a deeper appreciation for lavender's allure in soapmaking.
Episode 35: Mastering Essential Oils in Soapmaking: Purity, Blending, and FDA Regulations
E35 • Nov 28, 2024 • 5 minsIn episode 35, Anne-Marie Faiola delves into the intricacies of using essential oils in soapmaking. She starts with a warm welcome and a brief introduction to the episode's focus. Listeners are guided through a comprehensive exploration of essential oils, including their role in soapmaking and the importance of adhering to FDA regulations regarding product claims. Anne-Marie emphasizes the significance of ensuring essential oil purity and ethical sourcing. She also provides insights into the art of blending essential oils to create unique and appealing soap scents. The episode concludes with closing remarks and a preview of upcoming topics, leaving listeners eager for more soapmaking wisdom.
Episode 34: Community Soapmaking Tips and Tricks
E34 • Nov 27, 2024 • 5 minsIn episode 34, Anne-Marie Faiola welcomes listeners with an introduction to the latest installment of Soapmaking 101. This episode focuses on sharing a collection of valuable soapmaking tips sourced from the vibrant soapmaking community. Anne-Marie presents a variety of insights and techniques contributed by fellow soapmakers, designed to enhance the soapmaking process for both novices and experienced crafters alike. The episode concludes with a thoughtful sign-off, leaving listeners inspired and equipped with practical advice to elevate their soapmaking endeavors.
Crafting Your Soap Story: Benefits of Craft Fairs and Presentation Tips
E33 • Nov 23, 2024 • 3 minsIn episode 33, Anne-Marie Faiola welcomes listeners with an introduction to the art of soap making, setting the tone for an engaging exploration of crafting and presenting one's unique soap story. She delves into the importance of storytelling in enhancing the appeal of soap products, offering insights into effective presentation techniques. The episode highlights the benefits of participating in craft fairs, providing valuable advice on adapting approaches to maximize exposure and success. Anne-Marie concludes with heartfelt closing remarks and expressions of gratitude, leaving listeners inspired to refine their soapmaking narratives and embrace new opportunities for growth.
Self-Care Tips from Soapmakers: Embrace the Importance of Self-Care
E32 • Nov 22, 2024 • 3 minsIn episode 32, Anne-Marie Faiola focuses on the vital role of self-care within the soapmaking community. She begins with an introduction to the episode's main topic, emphasizing the importance of nurturing oneself while pursuing creative endeavors. Throughout the episode, Anne-Marie shares self-care tips from fellow soapmakers, highlighting practical ways to maintain balance and well-being. The episode concludes with a heartfelt reminder about the significance of self-care, encouraging listeners to prioritize their health and happiness as they continue their soapmaking journeys.
Soapmaking 101: Marketing, Social Media, and New Product Ideas for Beginners
E31 • Nov 21, 2024 • 4 minsIn episode 31, Anne-Marie Faiola opens with an introduction to Soapmaking 101, setting the stage for an insightful discussion on building a successful soapmaking venture. She delves into effective marketing and social media strategies, offering tips to help soapmakers reach a wider audience and grow their business. The episode also explores innovative product ideas, providing encouragement and inspiration for beginners eager to start their soapmaking journey. Anne-Marie wraps up with a heartfelt conclusion and farewell, leaving listeners motivated and equipped with the knowledge to embark on their own soapmaking adventures.
Soapmaking 101: Resizing Recipes, Oil Weights, Lye Calculator, and Storing Additives
E30 • Nov 20, 2024 • 4 minsIn episode 30, Anne-Marie Faiola takes listeners through the essentials of resizing soap recipes and understanding oil weight in soapmaking. The episode begins with a warm welcome and introduction to Soapmaking 101, setting the stage for a comprehensive guide. Anne-Marie delves into the importance of resizing recipes and the basics of oil weight, providing clarity for both beginners and experienced soapmakers. She introduces the Bramble Berry Lye Calculator, offering a detailed step-by-step guide on how to use it for accurate recipe adjustments. The episode also covers the preparation and storage of soap additives and colorants, ensuring that listeners are equipped with the knowledge to create customized and vibrant soaps.