melinda48
Supporting Member
Thank you! Went to Soapmaking Friend.
Sounds a lot like the SoapMaker program, which I believe is a database programI would expect no less from a cyborg - oh I mean Pieborg.![]()
Sounds a lot like the SoapMaker3, which I believe is a database program.If you have the slightest familiarity with computer programming, and if you're using a Windows operating system with MS Office, you can use MS Access to design the most wang-dang record keeping system imaginable. In one fairly small file, I have detailed records of purchases (equipment, materials, ingredients, etc.), from which, inventory and costs are easily managed, as well as an extremely flexible recipe calculator. In addition to doing all the math for me, the recipe calculator has a place for recording all the details about each batch, including an expandable memo field, so I can go back anytime and add notes, reviews from testers, etc. The whole thing is also searchable, and will collate your info any way you want. If I ever decide to sell, I can easily add customer and sales info, shipping rates -- whatever would make life easier. For now, I'm just using it to fine tune recipes, which I then print out and take to my soaping area. I write notes on the printout and enter them into the program when I'm all done soaping.
It was a little effort to set it up, but now record keeping is another fun part of soaping. I especially like playing with the recipe calculator. It's easy to add onto or change the system as needed, which I really like. But then, I'm a little nerdy that way. I realize most soapmakers, (or most *people*, for that matter) would probably rather not build their own software. If you're up to it, though, DIY is the way to go.
I tried signing up on soapinventory.com and it directs you to My Work Project which charges $20 per year. Not a lot of money but not free.SoapInventory.com
I'm with @jereygirl...I'm a bit more than anal when it comes to organization. I have what is called my 'signature' soap - many soaps fall under that category - base oils are the same but colour, scent and additives change. I have a binder and keep the base recipe in it for each different vessel (10" loaf; tall skinny; cylinder; dinosaur mold, etc) then after that I have a detailed sheet for each specific soap outinging recipe type (signature, specialty, kids, seasonal, etc);mold used; liquid used; additives; colour, fragrance; design and notes. My so-called 'specialty' soaps are kept in the same binder and include the specific recipe with a page detailing same as noted above. Pic is for a specialty soap but the idea applies to all soaps. When I remake a batch I note that on the page and include any changes to ingredients etc.I was hoping people would share some information on how you keep records for the soaps you are making. It is something that I struggle with. I tried to develop a number system for my recipes but I keep running into problems and then I change it. Then I have to go back and update previous batches with the new codes.
I really want to see examples of how others keep organized.
How strange! I hadn't signed in for awhile, but just checked, and I was not redirected at all. However, I also wasn't able to sign in. I'm guessing the site is undergoing some maintenance. I'm not sure if Dean Wilson is a member of this group, but you can find him on FB and on his YT channel. I believe his business name is "Sentinel Soap." He's pretty responsive to inquiries.I tried signing up on soapinventory.com and it directs you to My Work Project which charges $20 per year. Not a lot of money but not free.