BYE BYE LAVENDER BATCH

Last night I had no choice but to toss out the first batch of soap.  Ouch!  I had not been feeling good about it and now I know why.  Let's bow our heads for a moment for the soap that withered away before it even got started.

So, after consulting with a master soapmaker it became evident that this batch was problematic from the word go.  Adding to this was the fact that I was able to snap a bar of soap in half just four days before it was ready to use.  This would never happen with a bar of Dove!

Since the second batch was a complete success I will not look back but learn from this experience.  For those interested in knowing the steps that led me to this place, here they are...

Oils reheated from previous attempt
Lye and oils at 102 degrees(kept fluctuating so settled at 102)

Hand stirred briskly for 90 minutes

Thick trace did not sink into batter

Essential oils added and stirred for one minute

Sticky residue on side and bottom of pan when poured (a bit scooped into mold)

Mold covered for 24 hours with one blanket

Mold still very warm 24 hours later when I removed soap block

Block firm to touch but corners sticky

Soda ash on block face up

Cut into bars after letting block cool

Left to cure in small closet with door open