Making Lye

[user 49460]

I heat three buildings with hardwood and have a large amount of wood ash left over every year. I use some in the raised beds and mix some with my special dirt for chicken baths. So thinking of making soap... From what I've read most just get lye, has anyone made their own lye and how do you measure the strength?

JT

 

[DeeAnna]

Are you an experienced soap maker? If not, I suggest you start with "store bought" lye and build your soap making skills with a predictable alkali.

Making soap from wood ash lye is a trial and error process and not something I'd recommend for beginners.

 

[KimW]

Dare I? Oh well, here I go again - shocker, I know. While I am with you on wanting to use up those ashes, I echo what @DeeAnna has said. Soap from wood ash lye is [a lot of] trial and error, and will add that it can be a right pain. Rewarding, but a pain nonetheless.

Still, see this recent thread. Perhaps it will give some good info.
https://www.soapmakingforum.com/threads/congealing-on-top.82171/#post-865110

 

[user 49460]

Yeah it's not so much being successful at making soap right now but learning the old way of making lye. If I get that down pat I'll learn how to make soap or I'll try both at the same time.

Getting some commercial lye is a good idea so I can compare specific gravity and PH between my ash lye and commercial lye.

@KimW Thanks so much for that link, it is very good information to start with.

Lots to learn...

JT