Samples- Lotion Bars

[CatahoulaBubble]

So I make solid lotion bars and I have been putting out a tester bar and a tooth pick so people can scrape off a bit and try it but inevitably people will pick up the bar and just rub it all over their hands, faces, arms, elbows, etc. So I was thinking about making little lotion caviar balls and putting them out as samples so that instead of a whole bar being contaminated then people can just use a test size. I can set out the toothpicks and they can just stab a tiny lotion caviar bubble to use. I found a fondant bubble mold that seems like it would make the perfect test size. Any thoughts?

 

[artemis]

Wouldn't they roll around and out of their hands? What about more of a disc shape?

 

[cmzaha]

Have you considered small 1 oz jars for samples, and using small birchwood sticks for sampling?

 

[TheGecko]

So I make solid lotion bars and I have been putting out a tester bar and a tooth pick so people can scrape off a bit and try it but inevitably people will pick up the bar and just rub it all over their hands, faces, arms, elbows, etc. So I was thinking about making little lotion caviar balls and putting them out as samples so that instead of a whole bar being contaminated then people can just use a test size. I can set out the toothpicks and they can just stab a tiny lotion caviar bubble to use. I found a fondant bubble mold that seems like it would make the perfect test size. Any thoughts?

I’m looking a using twist up tubes.

 

[LilyJo]

I’m looking a using twist up tubes.

But you still have the same cross contamination issue for sampling though wouldn't you?

 

[shunt2011]

For samples I put it in a jar with little spatulas (individual use). I have also used small molds and poured small individual testers. They can take a little one and see if they like it. Not enough to get much use out of. Something like this....kept in tins to separate fragrance.

https://www.amazon.com/V-fox-Silico...uPWNsaWNrUmVkaXJlY3QmZG9Ob3RMb2dDbGljaz10cnVl

 

[soapmaker]

I have a rose silicone mold as well as a snowflake mold. I don't fill the cavities, just a small flat disk. I'm not at shows very much. Selling from home, I put each one in a tiny ziplock from the $ store and put them in the customers bag to try at home.

 

[Obsidian]

The BB idea is cute but I see potential problems with people still touching them with their hands, especially kids.
If you really want to go that route, I would pre stab them with the toothpicks and just set out a few in a small dish with high sides.

Honestly, a small jar with some disposable spatulas seems neater and easier.

 

[CatahoulaBubble]

Have you considered small 1 oz jars for samples, and using small birchwood sticks for sampling?

I may try that. I just imagine someone digging their fingers into the jar.

The BB idea is cute but I see potential problems with people still touching them with their hands, especially kids.
If you really want to go that route, I would pre stab them with the toothpicks and just set out a few in a small dish with high sides.

Honestly, a small jar with some disposable spatulas seems neater and easier.

That's actually what I was thinking. Just putting some on a little saucer that are pre-stabbed so people just take a small amount and don't just glom up everything. I do prevent kids from accessing most of my products by keeping them up higher. I only have my display items out and keep my actual selling inventory behind the display so that people can't pick up and maul my products. If they maul the display I don't mind too much but I am trying to reduce waste with the lotion bars because when someone rubs a lotion bar all over themselves I end up tossing it and putting out a new one. And now with more people getting the flu and passing on illnesses I thought a single serving on a toothpick would serve better. But maybe I'm just over thinking it.

 

[Carolyne Thrasher]

How about using a veg peeler as needed and give them a little shaving to use on the back of their hand?

 

[cmzaha]

I may try that. I just imagine someone digging their fingers into the jar.

That is why you put a small container, I use votive candle holders, out with small sticks or spatulas for sampling, with a sign to use a clean stick for samples. I also have a little mini can for trash and keep a small spray bottle of alcohol in case someone sticks their finger in the jar. It very seldom happens that a person does not use a stick. These are the sticks I use https://tinyurl.com/udjs27b