I have heard of it being done both ways, as far as adding ROE for storage and to batches, and I agree with you that using it for storage does make more sense. I will say though that I used to get DOS quite often before I started adding it to batches. I will use it for storage in the future. Thanks!!!
I was probably going to make it in a pot while the oils and lye solution are quite warm, between 140-160F. Kind of a hot cold process.
Oh, there are some processes that blend hp/cp to different degree - as long as you use enough water and the stearic acid doesn't give you trouble, it should be fine. Of course, someone with experience with those mixed processes may shed more light
This is how I make my shave soap. Reason being, you don't want to add heat once you have combined the hot lye and oils, or you will have an "expansion" aka volcano on your hands. As it is, you want to add the lye solution slowly while stirring. Stop as needed if the expansion gets to the point you are uncomfortable. Just stir it down. When it stays down, then add more lye solution slowly until it is all added.
