9 Best Soap Making Books for Beginners

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Books for Beginner Soap Makers

Do you want to make handmade soap but have no idea where to begin? Soap making is a fun and rewarding hobby, but it can also be a little daunting for beginners. If you’re just starting out, it’s important to find the right resources to teach you the basics of soapmaking. 

In this post, I recommend some of the best soap making books for beginners and advanced soap makers alike. So whether you’re just getting started or are an experienced soapmaker who wants to learn more about advanced techniques, I have a book suggestion for you.

Best Soap Making Books for Beginners

1. Scientific Soapmaking

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Do you like science? Even if you said no, knowing some basic chemistry will help you make an amazing bar of soap. Once you understand the science behind soap making, it’s easy to make high-quality soap that your friends and family will love. Don’t worry you don’t need to remember your high school chemistry lessons to make soap. Just this book.

2. Simple & Natural Soapmaking

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Soapmaking is a fun, easy, and affordable way to make all-natural products for your family and friends. Not only will you save money by making your own soap, but you’ll also know exactly what ingredients are in each bar. This book has 50 unique recipes for you to try such as lavender milk bath bars and mountain man beard & body bars. You’ll be able to make beautiful soaps that look great and smell even better. Plus, the detailed tutorials and step-by-step pictures make it easy for beginners to get started with soapmaking.

3. Milk Soaps

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Love taking care of your skin? Milk soap is a great way to do just that.  It’s enriched with natural oils that are good for your skin and make it look nicer. In this book, you’ll learn how to make soap with milk with step-by-step instructions and 35 recipes for you to try. 

Also, you can use different types of milk, such as cow, goat, camel milk, almond, or even breast milk in soapmaking. This book offers beginners and experts the opportunity to learn a new soap making skill.

4. Soap Crafting

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Love handmade soaps, but don’t know where to start to make your own? Soapmaking is a fun and easy way to get into the handmade game. You can make it in all sorts of shapes and sizes, with different ingredients from coffee to avocado. With this book, you can make 31 different kinds of soap, each with its own unique properties and smells. From exfoliating bars to moisturizing bars, there’s a recipe for everyone. 

5. The Complete Guide to Natural Soap Making

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Want to make handmade soap but don’t know how? This book is perfect for anyone who wants to make their own natural soap. It’s packed with information on the process, techniques, and recipes you need to get started. You’ll be able to create your own unique soaps in no time.

Once you’ve made your own soap, you’ll never go back to store-bought again. Not only are they more affordable, but they also last longer and smell better. Soapmaking is a fun and creative experience that can be enjoyed by everyone.

6. The Soapmaker’s Companion

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Soapmaking is a fun, easy way to make beautiful, natural products for yourself and your family. In The Soapmaker’s Companion, Susan Miller Cavitch teaches you how to make soap from scratch. You’ll learn the basics of soap making, then you can begin to experiment with your own scents and oil combinations. 

Cavitch also provides tips for making more than 40 different types of soap. So you can find the perfect recipe that fits your skin type. This book will have you making soap in no time. You’ll be able to create custom bars that are perfect for yourself, your loved ones, or as a gift for a special occasion.

7. The Everything Soapmaking Book

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Are you worried about the ingredients in store bought soap? The Everything Soapmaking Book is a comprehensive guide that tells you how to make all kinds of soaps so you’ll never ask that question again. You can conveniently make soap at home for yourself and your family. It is an easy project that any level craft lover can do.

This book teaches you how to choose the right soap making equipment, blend colors and scents, and make soaps for different occasions. You will also learn how to package your soaps beautifully so you can sell them at farmers’ markets, local retail outlets, or online craft sites for extra income.

8. Easy Homemade Melt and Pour Soaps

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Melt and pour soap is the perfect way to get into soapmaking. It’s simple, safe, and a great way to use natural ingredients. You’ll learn to make a variety of artisanal soaps that you can use to pamper yourself. The recipes feature natural ingredients like botanicals, colorants, and exfoliants. 

This beginner-friendly guide will teach you how to make melt-and-pour soap. All you’ll need is to melt your soap base, add  healing herbs or flowers, and then pour it into a mold. As soon as your soap is dry, it’s ready to use. You can make projects like Sunflower Sunshine Bars or Aromatherapy Soap Dough. Plus, it’s safe and simple so your kids can make soap too.

9. The Natural Soap Making Book for Beginners

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Making soap can be a fun and creative experience. This book will show you how to make different types of soap, including soap with natural herbs, oils, and milks. You will also learn how to make layered and embossed soaps.

With this book, you will be able to make your own soap that reflects your unique style. Soap making can be challenging at first, but this book makes it easy for you to get started.

FAQ About Making Soap

Which soap making method is best?

There is no best method for making soap. Different methods will produce different results. You can experiment with different techniques to find the one that works best for you. I personally use cold process when making pretty designs but hot process when testing formulas.

What are some good essential oils to use in soap?

There are many good essential oils to use in soap. Some good essential oils to use in soap include lavender, lemongrass, and peppermint. Just experiment with different essential oils to find the ones that you like best. 

Can I make soap without using lye?

Yes, you can make melt and pour soap without using lye. However, soap made without lye will not be as sturdy and may not last as long. If you are new to soapmaking, it is recommended that you start with a recipe that uses lye. This will help you learn the basics of soapmaking. However, do what feels right to you.

What is the best way to store my soap?

Soap should be stored in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Wrapping the soap in paper or cloth will help protect it from these elements.

How long does handmade soap last?

Handmade soap will last for several months to a year if it is stored properly. To extend the lifespan of your soap, store it in a cool, dark place. 

What are some good additives to add to my soap?

There are many good additives that can be added to soap. Some popular options include herbs, flowers, and essential oils. You can also add oatmeal, coffee grounds, or other exfoliants to your soap. Experiment with different additives to find the ones that you like best.

What is the difference between melt and pour soap and cold process soap?

Melt and pour soap is made by melting a pre-made soap base and adding your own additives. Cold process soap is made from scratch using lye and oil. Melt and pour soap is easier to make than cold process soap, but it will not be as sturdy or long-lasting.

Is handmade soap better for my skin?

There is no definitive answer to this question. Some people find that handmade soap is better for their skin, while others find no difference. If you have sensitive skin, it is best to test a small amount of soap on your skin before using it all over your body. I personally find handmade soap better for my skin and haven’t used store bought soap in over 7 years. 

What are the 4 basic methods of soap making?

The four basic methods of soap making are melt and pour, hot process, cold process, and rebatch. Melt and pour soap is the easiest to make and does not require any special equipment or skills. Hot process soap is made by cooking the soap mixture on the stovetop. Cold process soap is made with lye and requires careful handling. Rebatching soap is when you take cold process soap, grate it, and melt it down into a new bar.

What is better, cold or hot process soap?

There is no definitive answer to this question. Cold process soap has a longer shelf life than hot process soap, but hot process soap produces a harder bar of soap. Experiment with different methods to find the one that best suits your needs.

Is soap making difficult?

Soap making can be difficult, but it is also a very rewarding hobby. If you are new to soapmaking I would start with making melt and pour. It is really easy to make and you don’t have to mess with lye. Then once you feel more comfortable with making soap move to making cold process.

Is soap making expensive?

Soap making can be expensive, but it does not have to be. There are many affordable recipes and tutorials available online. You can also find pre-made soap bases and additives at craft stores or online. 

What are the 3 main ingredients in soap?

The three main ingredients in soap are lye, oil, and water. Lye is a caustic substance that must be handled with care. Oil provides the moisturizing properties in soap. Water is used to dissolve the lye and help the soap mixture reach a trace.

Ready to Begin Making Soap? 

For me soapmaking was a hobby that quickly turned into a passion. If you’re just starting out, it’s important to find the right resources to teach you the basics of soapmaking, especially how to make it safely. I’ve given you some recommendations for  soap making books for beginners. I personally own half the books on this list and references them often. The next step for you is grab a book and start making your first batch of soap. 

Now I’d like to hear from you? Do you have any of the books on this list? Do you have any other soap making books for beginners recommendations? Please leave your comment below!