Declutter it up!
E130 • May 17, 2025 • 3 minsIn episode 130 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola opens with an introduction to the episode's focus on creating an efficient soapmaking environment. She explores the importance of organizing your workspace and shares practical decluttering principles to enhance productivity. Anne-Marie discusses the benefits of decluttering, emphasizing how a tidy workspace can improve the soapmaking process and overall creativity. The episode provides listeners with actionable steps to streamline their work area, fostering a more enjoyable and efficient soapmaking experience.
Soapy Math
E129 • May 15, 2025 • 5 minsIn episode 129 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola opens with a warm welcome and sets the stage for a math-focused exploration of soapmaking. She delves into the importance of math, guiding listeners through calculating usage rates and understanding parts and ratios essential for crafting soap. The episode progresses into working with scent blends and the application of percentages in recipes, providing practical insights for soapmakers. Anne-Marie introduces the Lye Calculator, sharing valuable shortcuts and tips for soapy math. The episode concludes with closing remarks, equipping listeners with the mathematical tools to enhance their soapmaking journey.
The Spoon Trick
E128 • May 14, 2025 • 3 minsIn episode 128 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola begins with a warm welcome, setting the stage for an engaging exploration of lip product crafting. She introduces the "spoon trick," a handy technique for creating lip products, providing listeners with detailed step-by-step instructions. The episode includes a demonstration using Coral Mica and a Lip Balm Base, enhancing the learning experience with practical examples. Anne-Marie encourages listeners to share their own tips and experiences, fostering a sense of community. The episode concludes with a sponsor message from BrambleBerry.com, offering resources for further exploration in soapmaking and beyond.
How to Clean Oily Containers
E127 • May 13, 2025 • 3 minsIn episode 127 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola kicks off the episode with a warm welcome and an introduction to the day's topics. She takes on a cleaning challenge, addressing the tricky task of cleaning oily and waxy containers using a melt and pour soap base. Anne-Marie highlights the environmental benefits of this approach, sharing tips on how to repurpose soap scraps effectively. Listener engagement is encouraged throughout, adding a community feel to the episode. The episode wraps up with closing remarks, leaving listeners inspired to incorporate sustainable practices into their soapmaking routine.
Guest Post: Exfoliants in Soap
E126 • May 10, 2025 • 4 minsIn episode 126 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola welcomes listeners to an exploration of exfoliants in soapmaking, alongside highlights from a recent conference. The episode provides a comprehensive overview of preparing the lye and oil mixture, a crucial step in cold process soapmaking. Anne-Marie then delves into the art of layering soaps with exfoliants and natural colorants, offering tips for achieving beautiful results. Listeners are treated to a showcase of finished soaps and insights from conference attendees. The episode concludes with a dose of inspiration and additional resources for soapmakers eager to expand their craft.
How to Use the Swirl Tools
E125 • May 9, 2025 • 2 minsIn episode 125 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola introduces listeners to the art of creating beautiful swirl designs in soapmaking. The episode begins with a discussion on various swirl tools and techniques to enhance soap aesthetics. Anne-Marie provides a video demonstration on resizing swirl tools and explores additional creative projects. She also shares valuable resources on essential oils and DIY projects, offering inspiration for soapmakers looking to expand their repertoire. The episode wraps up with a sponsor message from BrambleBerry.com, guiding listeners to supplies and resources to elevate their soapmaking journey.
Guest Post: Formulating Scrubs and Body Butters
E124 • May 8, 2025 • 4 minsIn episode 124 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola introduces the world of body butters and scrubs, providing an overview of their benefits and uses. Joining her is Marla Bosworth, who shares insights into the formulation of these luxurious skincare products. Listeners are treated to a detailed recipe for a sugar scrub featuring Black Amber and Lavender, perfect for a home spa experience. The discussion extends to understanding oil absorption rates and the art of scenting body butters to achieve the desired aroma. The episode concludes with a mention of BrambleBerry.com, offering resources and supplies for crafting body care products.
Guest Post: Understanding Tallow for Soaping
E123 • May 7, 2025 • 5 minsIn episode 123 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola delves into the historical significance and modern use of tallow in soapmaking. The episode opens with a warm welcome and explores the roots of tallow in traditional soap crafting. Anne-Marie shares guest insights into the unique properties of tallow, followed by a discussion on its production and the benefits it brings to soap formulations. She also covers tallow substitutes and alternatives for those seeking different options. The episode concludes with a mention of additional resources and a sponsor message, providing listeners with tools to enhance their soapmaking experience.
Soapy Session Preparation and Setup Guide
E122 • May 6, 2025 • 4 minsIn episode 122 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola emphasizes the importance of safety and organization in the soapmaking process. The episode starts with a warm welcome and essential safety tips to ensure a secure environment while crafting soap. Anne-Marie then delves into the necessary tools and equipment, along with guidance on preparing additives for your soap creations. She highlights the significance of an organized workspace, offering practical advice for efficient setup. The episode concludes with a message from BrambleBerry.com, directing listeners to resources and supplies to support their soapmaking endeavors.
Soapy Session Clean Up Guide
E121 • May 3, 2025 • 3 minsIn episode 121 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola focuses on the often-overlooked aspect of cleaning tools and methods in soapmaking. The episode starts with an introduction to the importance of maintaining clean equipment for successful soapmaking. Anne-Marie shares effective cleaning techniques and methods to ensure your tools are ready for use. She also offers final cleanup tips and encourages listeners to contribute their own cleaning strategies. The episode wraps up with a mention of resources and supplies available from BrambleBerry.com, aimed at enhancing the soapmaking experience.
5 Tips to Create Professional Looking Soap
E120 • May 2, 2025 • 3 minsIn episode 120 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola shares valuable insights into creating professional-looking soap. The episode begins with a warm welcome and introduction, setting the stage for Anne-Marie's expert advice. She outlines five essential tips to elevate the appearance of your homemade soap, ensuring it looks polished and expertly crafted. The episode also features a segment highlighting resources and supplies from BrambleBerry.com, providing listeners with access to tools and materials to enhance their soapmaking journey.
How to Throw a DIY Sugar Scrub Party + Recipe
E119 • Apr 30, 2025 • 5 minsIn episode 119 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola explores the fun and creativity of hosting a DIY sugar scrub party. The episode begins with an introduction to the concept of crafting a Winter Gardenia Sugar Scrub. Anne-Marie provides a detailed recipe and step-by-step instructions for making this luxurious scrub. She shares tips on setting up and demonstrating the scrub-making process at your party, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for guests. The episode also touches on incorporating food and drinks to enhance the party atmosphere. Listeners are directed to BrambleBerry.com for additional soapmaking resources and supplies.
All About the Trace
E118 • Apr 26, 2025 • 8 minsIn episode 118 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola dives into the concept of trace in soapmaking. The episode begins with a welcome and introduction to the topic, explaining the significance of trace in the soapmaking process. Anne-Marie guides listeners through the various stages of trace, offering insights on how to recognize and utilize each stage effectively. She discusses factors that affect trace, including false trace, and examines how ingredients and temperature play a role. The episode concludes with encouragement and practical tips for mastering trace, along with a segment featuring resources and supplies from BrambleBerry.com.
How to Test pH with Red Cabbage
E117 • Apr 25, 2025 • 3 minsIn episode 117 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola introduces listeners to the essentials of soapmaking, with a focus on understanding and testing pH levels. The episode begins with a warm welcome and an introduction to the foundational aspects of soapmaking. Anne-Marie then explains how to test pH using natural indicators, providing practical insights for soapmakers. She addresses the common issue of lye-heavy soap batches, offering solutions to correct them. The episode also includes a segment featuring resources and supplies from BrambleBerry.com, equipping soapmakers with the tools they need to succeed in their craft.
Fragrance Oil Blending Tips
E116 • Apr 24, 2025 • 4 minsIn episode 116 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola delves into the art of fragrance oil blending. The episode kicks off with an introduction to the categories of fragrance oils, setting the stage for a deeper understanding of blending techniques. Anne-Marie guides listeners through the process of understanding and combining fragrance notes and nuances to create harmonious blends. She emphasizes the importance of evaluating and adjusting fragrance blends to achieve the desired scent profile. The episode wraps up with additional resources for further exploration and closing remarks, offering a comprehensive overview for soapmakers interested in mastering fragrance blending.
How to Use Leftover Soap Scraps
E115 • Apr 23, 2025 • 4 minsIn episode 115 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola explores the art of rebatching and utilizing soap scraps. The episode begins with a warm welcome and introduction to the topic, emphasizing the importance of reducing waste in soapmaking. Anne-Marie delves into creative techniques for repurposing soap scraps, offering practical advice and inspiration for turning leftovers into new, beautiful creations. She also highlights contributions from the soapmaking community and invites listeners to share their own ideas and experiences. The episode encourages innovation and resourcefulness in the craft of soapmaking.
How to Substitute Oil in Cold Process Recipes
E114 • Apr 22, 2025 • 5 minsIn episode 114 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola delves into the topic of oil substitution in soapmaking. The episode begins with a welcome and introduction to the importance of substituting oils in soap recipes. Anne-Marie discusses the significance of understanding oil properties and the role of the lye calculator in achieving successful substitutions. She explores the differences between hard and soft oils and provides specific examples of oil substitutions. The episode further examines the art and science behind oil substitution, offering valuable resources for soapmakers to enhance their craft.
How to Substitute Oil in Cold Process Recipes
E113 • Apr 19, 2025 • 12 minsIn episode 113 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola explores the art of substituting oils in cold process soapmaking. The episode opens with an introduction to the topic, followed by a deep dive into understanding soap making oils, their SAP values, and characteristics. Anne-Marie provides guidelines and practical examples for substituting oils in soap recipes, focusing on common oils such as palm, olive, and coconut. She explains the differences between pomace olive oil and pure olive oil, and offers a list of common substitutes. The episode concludes with final tips on oil substitution and closing remarks, along with a mention of BrambleBerry.com.
How to Use 2-Part Silicone Molds on Soap Queen TV
E112 • Apr 16, 2025 • 2 minsIn episode 112 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola delves into the world of two-part silicone molds. The episode begins with a warm welcome back to listeners, setting the stage for an exploration of the advantages and applications of these versatile molds in soapmaking. Anne-Marie shares insights into the benefits of using two-part silicone molds, highlighting their flexibility and ease of use. She also encourages listeners to share their own silicone mold projects and provides valuable resources for further exploration. The episode offers practical advice and inspiration for soapmakers looking to expand their mold repertoire.
Woodgrain Soap Tutorial
E111 • Apr 15, 2025 • 5 minsIn episode 111 of Soapmaking 101 with the Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola guides listeners through the process of creating Woodgrain Soap. The episode kicks off with a welcome and introduction to this unique soapmaking project. Anne-Marie emphasizes the importance of safety and preparation in soapmaking before detailing the necessary ingredients and tools for the Woodgrain Soap. A comprehensive, step-by-step guide to making the soap batter follows, including pouring and designing techniques to achieve the woodgrain effect. The episode concludes with insights on curing and presenting the final soap product, along with closing remarks and a mention of BrambleBerry.com.