How do people get their soap to look like this on top?

[NewSoapieFreak]

 

[michelleB]

Pouring at med/thick trace & using the tool of your choice to create a swirly pattern along the top of the log. I use anything from the handle of my mixing spoon to a narrow nylon spatula. Here's some of the tops I get:

Unscented Coconut Milk Soap

Olive Oil & Goat Milk Soap (Bastile)

Tropical Paradise Goat Milk Soap

It's all a matter of your imagination! Give it a whirl!

 

[NewSoapieFreak]

Very cool! Do you use a loaf mold? When exactly is medium trace?

 

[michelleB]

Yep I use wooden log molds. Trace is describing the thickness of your soap 'batter' when you're ready to pour it. Thin trace is, well, thin/sorta runny and you'd pour at thin trace to have a slick/flat top. Thick trace would be what I consider "pudding" consistency, perfect for creating texture on the tops. And medium trace is in between. I'm sorry, I know there's a better way to describe that & I've made it as clear as mud. :roll:

 

[NewSoapieFreak]

Makes perfect sense, thank you!