kitchwitch
Active Member
I just got my first loaf mold, which I adore. My first batch was amazing, but a learning experience. I made my second loaf last night and wanted to get some expert advice.
The first layer (about 12 oz. in a 50 oz. mold) worked beautifully. The rest of the batch, I wanted it all (about 32 oz. plus add-ins) the same. So I melted the largest amount of M&P base I've ever done - 32 oz. I have a medium-sized microwave. It took a long time, which I expected, but started forming a skin as I was stirring/melting the last bits of soap in. By the time I added fragrance and extras (ground oats and cinnamon) I had a thick solid ring around the edge of the bowl and it was cooling fast. I got it in the mold and I think it'll turn out okay, but I've not experienced this before. I lost about 10% of it, stuck to the bowl.
My thoughts: Too much soap base in too small microwave? Add-ins somehow accelerated cooling and should be reduced in amount?
My idea is to split that chunk into two parts. Melt and pour half at a time. Since it'll be the same both times, where the two layers meet should be seamless.
But I am open to suggestion. I may have done something wrong and not realize. I'd love to hear feedback or similar stories.
Thanks!
The first layer (about 12 oz. in a 50 oz. mold) worked beautifully. The rest of the batch, I wanted it all (about 32 oz. plus add-ins) the same. So I melted the largest amount of M&P base I've ever done - 32 oz. I have a medium-sized microwave. It took a long time, which I expected, but started forming a skin as I was stirring/melting the last bits of soap in. By the time I added fragrance and extras (ground oats and cinnamon) I had a thick solid ring around the edge of the bowl and it was cooling fast. I got it in the mold and I think it'll turn out okay, but I've not experienced this before. I lost about 10% of it, stuck to the bowl.
My thoughts: Too much soap base in too small microwave? Add-ins somehow accelerated cooling and should be reduced in amount?
My idea is to split that chunk into two parts. Melt and pour half at a time. Since it'll be the same both times, where the two layers meet should be seamless.
But I am open to suggestion. I may have done something wrong and not realize. I'd love to hear feedback or similar stories.
Thanks!