tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-89887187112542075912024-03-13T21:29:11.066-07:00The Soap LabThe Soap Lab is about my favorite design inspirations. From fashion to furniture, jewelry to architecture, I'll share my latest online discoveries that make my heart flutter.
I'll also be writing about my own project called The Soap Lab where I'm working on what I hope to be the most interesting soap designs I've ever made.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03799077223560428655noreply@blogger.comBlogger48125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8988718711254207591.post-4145536031813636632010-06-28T11:54:00.001-07:002010-06-28T11:54:47.101-07:00The Art of Soap - my new book coming this fall.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Gb7SNWDXpD8/TCjv5q4pFtI/AAAAAAAABj4/VE0Nti6iSTU/s1600/Ka+Fee+banner+watermark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Gb7SNWDXpD8/TCjv5q4pFtI/AAAAAAAABj4/VE0Nti6iSTU/s320/Ka+Fee+banner+watermark.jpg" /></a></div>I am overjoyed to announce a new project I have been working on for the last 2 months. It is a book called <i><b>The Art of Soap</b></i>, which will feature the work and stories of 24 incredible soap makers. Full of breath taking photos by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/naiadsoaparts/">Erin Pikor</a>, a wide range of styles, methods, and philosophies will be represented. <i><b>The Art of Soap</b></i> will introduce the public to the beauty of soap making, and be a must for any soap maker's library. <br />
<br />
Make sure to follow <a href="http://www.theartofsoapbook.com/">The Art of Soap blog</a> where you will get sneak peeks of the featured artists and the beautiful photography. Available both in soft and hard cover, it will be available this Fall!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03799077223560428655noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8988718711254207591.post-45914645655591261592009-11-23T15:44:00.000-08:002009-11-23T15:56:35.238-08:00A Soapy Siesta<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Gb7SNWDXpD8/SwsguKeG_8I/AAAAAAAABTc/b3LJ4z1Ex1k/s1600/clearly+shoes+logo+pumped.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 202px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Gb7SNWDXpD8/SwsguKeG_8I/AAAAAAAABTc/b3LJ4z1Ex1k/s320/clearly+shoes+logo+pumped.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5407451755045126082" border="0" /></a>Hi Soap Lab enthusiasts! As you may have noticed, it's been a looooong time since I have posted. I've been really busy and I decided, alas, NOT to launch my modern soap line.<br /><br />I had so many designs that I was excited to make but they all required custom silicone molds and I was having some technical difficulties. Although I was extremely passionate about the new collection, I realized that it was taking my focus away from my bigger projects - the <a href="http://www.letsgetsoapy.com">Let's Get Soapy eZine</a> and my <a href="http://www.soapylove.com/category.php?category_id=1">Soapy Pop line</a>.<br /><br />So over the last couple of months I worked on making Soapylove better than ever. <a href="http://soapylove.com/">The website</a> has been completely redesigned and incorporates every facet of my business: from the book to the supply line, from a class schedule to all of my social media. Plus the design is fresh, colorful, and even allows shop owners to order online. I'm super excited!<br /><br />So even though I feel like I just dumped my new friend, I am confident that I'm doing the right thing for my business. Sigh!<br /><br />Make sure to stay tuned to my <a href="http://www.soapylove.blogspot.com/">Soapylove blog</a> and become a fan at my <a href="http://www.facebook.com/soapylove">Facebook page</a> to stay up to date on everything in Soapyland. There's never a dull moment!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03799077223560428655noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8988718711254207591.post-80446568089327577772009-09-23T10:44:00.000-07:002009-09-23T10:53:54.091-07:00Show Off Your Gorgeous Soaps with BPR Designs<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Gb7SNWDXpD8/Srpf8EaLv4I/AAAAAAAABLo/HY9fJ-g4sks/s1600-h/beth+soap+dishes.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 266px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Gb7SNWDXpD8/Srpf8EaLv4I/AAAAAAAABLo/HY9fJ-g4sks/s320/beth+soap+dishes.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384721790055202690" /></a>While developing my Little Althea line, I met Beth Reiman of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6002926">BPR Designs</a>, who makes extremely beautiful handmade glass soap dishes (and other designs as well). <br /><br />She combines stripes of complementary colors and textures to create one-of-a-kind soap dishes in a few different sizes. I especially love the bubbly clear glass and her interesting free form scribbles. There are many color combinations available and every soap dish has raised glass ridges to keep the soap dry between uses. <br /><br />To see her soap dish collection, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6002926§ion_id=6248362">click here</a>. I can certainly recommend her work - I have one of her dishes at my sink right now! Add one to any soap gift and make it truly special.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03799077223560428655noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8988718711254207591.post-86626863427366860012009-09-14T14:51:00.000-07:002009-09-14T14:53:20.509-07:00New Tutorial Over at the Soapylove Blog!<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Gb7SNWDXpD8/Sq67EmwRLBI/AAAAAAAABKI/UdJ08uXKZyE/s1600-h/glam+shot+1+bar.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 318px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381444292551191570" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Gb7SNWDXpD8/Sq67EmwRLBI/AAAAAAAABKI/UdJ08uXKZyE/s320/glam+shot+1+bar.jpg" /></a> Looking for a quick and stylish soap project? These Gothic Pumpkin Soaps fit the bill! Head over to the <a href="http://www.soapylove.blogspot.com/">Soapylove Blog</a> for the full tutorial! See you there!<br /><div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03799077223560428655noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8988718711254207591.post-57838460427016277752009-09-09T06:37:00.000-07:002009-09-09T06:37:00.705-07:00Please Say Hi to Charles and Marie!<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Gb7SNWDXpD8/SqVFEIHYgCI/AAAAAAAABJA/zpu_vgGzZC4/s1600-h/charles+and+marie.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 239px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Gb7SNWDXpD8/SqVFEIHYgCI/AAAAAAAABJA/zpu_vgGzZC4/s320/charles+and+marie.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378781267164168226" /></a><a href="http://www.charlesandmarie.com">Charles and Marie</a> is a gorgeous, modern, and eclectic shop. They just relaunched their site, and you should <a href="http://www.charlesandmarie.com">check it out</a>. <br /><br />Definitely a high end shop, it's titled "The Quintessential Lifestyle Navigator." Pulling from around the world, their items are unique and striking. When you're in the market for a gift that will leave a lasting impression (like that interesting soap at the bottom of the page...), definitely ask Charles and Marie!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03799077223560428655noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8988718711254207591.post-22580109459570582322009-09-07T10:18:00.001-07:002009-09-07T10:28:09.063-07:00Soap Blog du Jour<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Gb7SNWDXpD8/SqVAkA88Y0I/AAAAAAAABI4/mAw-uqS_xPs/s1600-h/sapo+onis+blog+pic+watermelon"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 254px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Gb7SNWDXpD8/SqVAkA88Y0I/AAAAAAAABI4/mAw-uqS_xPs/s320/sapo+onis+blog+pic+watermelon" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378776317439009602" /></a><br />Today I am featuring another international soap blogger: <a href="http://sapo-onis.blogspot.com/">Sapo-Onis</a>. This beautiful blog is in Spanish but it is all photos, so you don't need to be bilingual! Check out the amazing assortment of styles and effects featured here, including some great packaging. There seems to be a combination of glycerin and cold process soaps so there's something for everyone!<br /><br />Not only will you be inspired by their photos, but the blog roll is an incredible resource for other soap blogs. They really did their homework!<br /><br />If you would like to see even more (and I strongly encourage you to), check out their Flickr <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/nevenkinha/sets/72157621260075887/">soap photography</a> set as well. It's a feast for the eyes!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03799077223560428655noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8988718711254207591.post-62491858672863599922009-08-26T09:21:00.000-07:002009-08-26T09:37:26.577-07:00Soap Blog du Jour<a href="http://suku-suku2007.img.jugem.jp/20090526_447274.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 480px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 367px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://suku-suku2007.img.jugem.jp/20090526_447274.jpg" /></a><br />There are so many amazing and inspiring blogs from soapmakers all over the world. I love looking at designs from other countries. I will try to post about some of my favorites regularly because there are so many of them!<br /><br />Today I chose <a href="http://suku-suku2007.jugem.jp/">suku.suku</a>, "Handgemachte Japan-Seife." I love the fresh, clean, and artistic feel of this blog. The soaps are mostly CP. All of the articles are in Japanese but I have a feeling that the author is Japanese and lives in Germany (if you know, can you enlighten me?). There are many interesting soap projects including an amazing carved rose necklace!<br /><br />Make sure to click through to some of the older posts to see packaging, travel, and of course soap photos! <br /><br />Is there a soap blog that you love? Or would you like me to take a peek at your blog? If so, please leave a comment and your pick may be the next Blog du Jour!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03799077223560428655noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8988718711254207591.post-5807374810797792302009-08-25T14:31:00.000-07:002009-08-25T15:05:19.402-07:00Goodbye...and hello!<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Gb7SNWDXpD8/SpRfye34dkI/AAAAAAAABH4/cuMteX0JKZw/s1600-h/soap+dish+001.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Gb7SNWDXpD8/SpRfye34dkI/AAAAAAAABH4/cuMteX0JKZw/s320/soap+dish+001.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5374025576245392962" /></a>In May of last year, I began The Soap Lab blog as a way to indulge my love of modern and progressive soap design. I knew that now and then I would create some soaps to sell or write about, too.<br /><br />And then... the Typography Soap happened. This one design has really gotten around and I've had several wholesale inquiries for it, too. <a href="http://www.fredflare.com/customer/product.php?productid=5056&cat=311">Fred Flare</a> and "Charles and Marie" both carry the Typography Soap, and I've had to turn away a few requests just because I wasn't prepared to make them in quantity.<br /><br />But where there's a will, there's a way. I have decided to create an official collection of modern, 3 dimensional soaps. This new line will be named "Little Althea" Modern Soap Designs, after my baby daughter. I will start with 4 designs that will be offered in a few core colors and scents. The new prototypes are being developed right now, and I hope to get them posted in time for your holiday shopping. Expect truly unique styles presented in equally special packaging.<br /><br />So now I am closing the Soap Lab shop I had on Big Cartel and will be launching a brand new site for Little Althea. I look forward to sharing the progression of the new shop with you. Make sure to follow this blog so you'll be the first to know when it's complete. And if you're a shop owner and would like to be the first to get the wholesale catalog and price list, please <a href="mailto:debbie@soapylove.com">email me here</a>.<br /><br />Thanks so much for your enthusiasm for the Typography Soap and I hope you will like the new styles as much if not more!<br /><br />Best,<br />DebbieAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03799077223560428655noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8988718711254207591.post-76744255794066256452009-08-12T21:37:00.001-07:002009-08-12T21:40:49.822-07:00New Designs are Cooking in The Soap Lab!After much pondering, meditating, and marinating, I have decided to expand The Soap Lab line into a wholesale collection. So far they have been small experiments but the response has been very positive and it's sad to turn away shop owners who have inquired about larger orders. <br /><br />Sooo... I have many supplies on the way and ideas in my head, and will be working on them gradually. No timeline planned or anything, but just a mental commitment to move forward with it. The Typography Soap deserves some company! :)<br /><br />I'll keep y'all posted!<br /><br />Oh, and make sure to check out my more active blog - <a href="http://www.soapylove.blogspot.com/">Soapylove Daily Ditties</a>. There are classes, events, and even a radio show posted there as well as very regular articles. Thanks!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03799077223560428655noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8988718711254207591.post-59651835879360583212009-08-12T21:02:00.000-07:002009-08-12T21:04:36.366-07:00And the Winner Is....<div align="center"><strong><span style="font-family:times new roman;font-size:180%;color:#cc0000;">Anne-Marie!!</span></strong> </div><div align="center"> </div>There were 6 entries and by using Random.org, #1 was chosen. So thank you so much everyone for entering and congratulations to Anne-Marie Faiola! The soap dish and cup set will be sent directly to you from All Modern. Woo hoo!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03799077223560428655noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8988718711254207591.post-9875606543520982622009-08-07T11:06:00.000-07:002009-08-07T11:07:26.830-07:00Contest ending Monday!Make sure to leave your comments if you want to be entered in the drawing for the beautiful toothbrush cup and soap dish! Check out the previous post for details.<br /><br />Good luck everyone!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03799077223560428655noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8988718711254207591.post-56910668392222091232009-07-22T09:23:00.000-07:002009-07-22T11:56:30.983-07:00Awesome Giveaway from The Soap Lab!<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Gb7SNWDXpD8/Smc_YDsKX1I/AAAAAAAABDo/lzuvIhYNyW8/s1600-h/toothbrush+cup.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 196px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Gb7SNWDXpD8/Smc_YDsKX1I/AAAAAAAABDo/lzuvIhYNyW8/s200/toothbrush+cup.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5361323563947810642" /></a>The Soap Lab and <a href="http://www.allmodern.com">All Modern</a> have collaborated to bring you a chance to win some beautiful accessories for your bathroom! <br /><br />This very cool toothbrush cup and soap dish set is by Alessi. They were designed by Emma Silvestris, an eclectic and versatile jewelry designer by trade. She combines soft, feminine lines, the precision of geometry and classic elegance, as well as the use of ancient symbols, to create seemingly weightless designs. The red set is offered in this giveaway, but you can find the silver set and many more coordinating pieces <a href="http://www.allmodern.com/asp/show_collection.asp?XnID=22570">here</a>. I especially like the paper towel holder!<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Gb7SNWDXpD8/Smc_dKkPTJI/AAAAAAAABDw/-3TYd_KGPvs/s1600-h/soap+dish.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 141px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Gb7SNWDXpD8/Smc_dKkPTJI/AAAAAAAABDw/-3TYd_KGPvs/s200/soap+dish.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5361323651692973202" /></a>All Modern has a fantastic selection of modern furniture and home accessories from many leading designers. Part of CSN Stores, All Modern is just one of over 260 retail sites that offer a diverse array of products from Herman Miller’s popular <a href="http://www.csnchairs.com/asp/show_collection.asp?XnID=8344">Aeron Chair</a> to cookware by Rachael Ray. Check out their popular Modern Design Blog - <a href="www.moderndesignblog.com">www.moderndesignblog.com</a>. <br /><br />If you would like a chance to win, just leave a comment telling me about your favorite modern designer or modern item, and make sure to include your email address. A name will be randomly drawn by www.random.org. That's it! <br /><br />Good luck!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03799077223560428655noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8988718711254207591.post-76360616055968400202009-06-23T17:08:00.000-07:002009-06-24T09:40:13.938-07:00Tutorial: Rustic Chevre Soaps<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Gb7SNWDXpD8/SkJWsiV6FiI/AAAAAAAAA90/m7o4pUZ1DkU/s1600-h/6-24-09+chevre+soaps+glam+shot+2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5350934630402496034" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 254px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Gb7SNWDXpD8/SkJWsiV6FiI/AAAAAAAAA90/m7o4pUZ1DkU/s320/6-24-09+chevre+soaps+glam+shot+2.jpg" border="0" /></a>Inspired by handmade fromage de chevre (goat cheese), the rustic texture of these round soap bars is created using cheese cloth. This easy project uses only natural ingredients (with goat's milk soap of course!), and the lather is super creamy thanks to a healthy dose of real honey. Add tea, herbs, or crushed dried flowers for an attractive and slightly exfoliating texture.<br /><br />Supplies:<br /><br />10 oz Goats Milk Glycerin Soap Base<br />1 Tablespoon honey<br />1/4 teaspoon crushed tea, dried herbs or flowers<br />8 squares of cheese cloth, cut 4" x 4"<br />Standard muffin tin<br />Pastry brush<br /><br /><br /><div><p align="center"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Gb7SNWDXpD8/SkGkusRj2JI/AAAAAAAAA9k/KnCKZ6569MA/s1600-h/6-23-09+chevre+soaps+collage.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5350738954358610066" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 334px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Gb7SNWDXpD8/SkGkusRj2JI/AAAAAAAAA9k/KnCKZ6569MA/s400/6-23-09+chevre+soaps+collage.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><br />Steps:<br /><br />Layer 2 squares of cheese cloth and put them into 4 muffin tins.<br /><br />Melt the soap base in the microwave (30-45 seconds should be plenty). Stir in honey and tea.<br /><br />Dip pastry brush in soap and paint the cheese cloth, so it sticks completely to the muffin tin.<br /><br />Before filling molds, make sure soap has cooled enough so the herbs are suspended in the soap, not floating or sinking.<br /><br />Fill molds generously. Spray surface with alcohol to pop any surface bubbles (optional).<br /><br />Allow to harden completely.<br /><br />Unmold soaps by tugging on the cheese cloth. Peel cloth from bars.<br /><br />Wrap in fresh cheese cloth and tie with twine for a nice presentation.<br /><br />You can certainly use any kind of fragrance you like, but the honey adds a nice subtle sweetness that suits the roughness of these bars.<br /><br />For some great chevre inspiration, search "<a href="http://www.flickr.com/search/?w=all&q=chevre+fromage&m=text">fromage de chevre</a>" on Flickr.<br />Enjoy!</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03799077223560428655noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8988718711254207591.post-22238822501727113162009-05-31T08:58:00.000-07:002009-05-31T09:06:11.470-07:00New Video! Finding Inspiration for New Soap Designs<object width="445" height="364"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/64K2o_mpm08&hl=en&fs=1&color1=0x006699&color2=0x54abd6&border=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/64K2o_mpm08&hl=en&fs=1&color1=0x006699&color2=0x54abd6&border=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="445" height="364"></embed></object><br />I hope you enjoy this new video about finding inspiration. I took a trip to <a href="http://www.architecturalsalvagesd.com/">Architectural Salvage of San Diego</a> in the Little Italy neighborhood and went browsing in this wonderful shop full of antique treasures. Enjoy lots of tips and design suggestions as I show you how to translate beautiful details into soap ideas. <br /><br />Where are some places you feel inspired? I'd love to hear!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03799077223560428655noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8988718711254207591.post-53179726492338472592009-05-26T23:04:00.001-07:002009-05-26T23:16:12.812-07:00The Lights Just Got a Little Brighter in The Soap Lab!<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Gb7SNWDXpD8/ShzZ78y9j0I/AAAAAAAAA78/CF-jvoBNHck/s1600-h/Bright+side.bmp"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340382882109951810" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Gb7SNWDXpD8/ShzZ78y9j0I/AAAAAAAAA78/CF-jvoBNHck/s200/Bright+side.bmp" border="0" /></a>Have you heard of <a href="http://www.thebrightsideproject.com/2009/05/soapy-love.html">The Bright Side Project</a>? If you receive the Daily Candy emails, maybe you remember seeing <a href="http://www.dailycandy.com/everywhere/article/42108/Mrs+Brightside?utm_source=dailycandyew&utm_medium=rss">their feature</a>. It's a really neat blog that picks an artist and gives readers a chance to win something from that artist by answering a nifty question. It's a fun and easy way to look on the bright side!<br /><br /><div>Today they chose Soapylove as the artist du jour. Get a chance to win a Typography Soap of your own <a href="http://www.thebrightsideproject.com/2009/05/soapy-love.html">here</a>. I'll be picking the winner myself, so make your answer a stand out! :)</div><br /><div>BTW, more Typography Soaps will be available June 1. We're making them as fast as we can! </div><br /><br />Thanks for the love, Bright Side Project!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03799077223560428655noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8988718711254207591.post-78701139908050732612009-05-25T09:30:00.000-07:002009-05-25T09:39:52.378-07:00Come and Get It! Early Bird Discount This Week on New Issue.<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Gb7SNWDXpD8/ShrJnhSZ2VI/AAAAAAAAA70/24DD0tiqyFE/s1600-h/Glam+shot+Wood+Bars.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5339801988988787026" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 223px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Gb7SNWDXpD8/ShrJnhSZ2VI/AAAAAAAAA70/24DD0tiqyFE/s320/Glam+shot+Wood+Bars.jpg" border="0" /></a>The new special edition of <a href="http://www.letsgetsoapy.com/">Let's Get Soapy</a> is now available! You will love this issue, dedicated to the look of The Soap Lab. Find out how to:<br /><br />make custom texture sheets<br />use them for melt & pour AND CP soap<br />engrave these gorgeous Wood Grain soap bars<br />get inspired by an amazing packaging design page<br />learn how to make some great new non-bleeding soap colors<br />and a lot more<br /><br />There are 20 pages packed full of great info (21 if you include the printable wood grain template).<br /><br />As usual, if you order your issue this week you get the early bird special - $12 instead of the regular price of $15. Special price goes up June 1!<br /><br />For more pictures from inside the issue, you can go straight to the <a href="http://letsgetsoapy.cerizmo.com/items/3912-new-issue-3-june-2009-let-s-get-soapy-special-edition">shopping cart page </a>here.<br /><br />I hope you enjoy it! I think you will! :)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03799077223560428655noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8988718711254207591.post-64072744170064261032009-05-21T14:02:00.000-07:002009-05-21T14:08:18.232-07:00The Amazingness!<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Gb7SNWDXpD8/ShXBq5YPBuI/AAAAAAAAA6s/oXWb3mt5w2k/s1600-h/Rectangles+soap+dish.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5338385876018726626" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 222px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Gb7SNWDXpD8/ShXBq5YPBuI/AAAAAAAAA6s/oXWb3mt5w2k/s320/Rectangles+soap+dish.JPG" border="0" /></a> Erin Pikor, of <a href="http://www.naiadsoaparts.com/">Naiad Soap Arts</a>, is contributing a great article for the special June issue of <a href="http://www.letsgetsoapy.com/">Let's Get Soapy</a>. The above photograph is from her tutorial. She shows how to use the custom texture sheet project, the featured project in the eZine, for cold process soaps. A recipe and great tips are included. It's amazing the amount of depth and detail she was able to get, and it was her first try! <br /><br />I'm really excited about this issue. It will be available starting on Monday at <a href="http://www.letsgetsoapy.com/">www.letsgetsoapy.com</a>. If you get yours by June 1, you'll get a special early bird discount, too. Don't miss it!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03799077223560428655noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8988718711254207591.post-69157532178929994642009-05-17T14:36:00.000-07:002009-05-17T14:39:56.068-07:00Psst! The Soap Lab Shop is Now Open!Since I'm all the way over here in California, I decided to open <a href="http://thesoaplab.bigcartel.com/">my shop</a> today so anyone in the rest of the world will find an open shop when it's Monday there. :)<br /><br />I have added the <a href="http://thesoaplab.bigcartel.com/product/writers-block-soap">Writer's Block Soaps</a> and my custom Black Walnut <a href="http://thesoaplab.bigcartel.com/product/black-walnut-soap-dish">soap dishes</a> to the shop as well. If you have any questions please feel free to <a href="mailto:debbie@soapylove.com">drop me a line</a>.<br /><br />Thanks and happy shopping!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03799077223560428655noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8988718711254207591.post-32905867527946049502009-05-16T20:17:00.000-07:002009-05-16T20:27:11.445-07:00If I Only Spoke French...I found this wonderful soap making eZine today and I wish I could read French! I think it is written by the author of <a href="http://maiskeskafee.free.fr/">Mais Kes Ka Fee</a>, who has a gorgeous blog as well. Even though it's all about CP soap techniques, the photos are eye candy for everyone to enjoy. <br /><br />I plan to spend more time on her site and use Google Translator to read the articles, but I wanted to quickly share the eZine with you first. I hope you like it!<br /><br /><div><embed src="http://static.issuu.com/webembed/viewers/style1/v1/IssuuViewer.swf" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" menu="false" quality="high" scale="noscale" salign="l" flashvars="mode=embed&layout=http%3A%2F%2Fskin.issuu.com%2Fv%2Flight%2Flayout.xml&showFlipBtn=true&documentId=090515073416-4df0ed04e2984b5c9d13a61cec692dc1&docName=naoh-1&username=Kafee&loadingInfoText=NaOH%20N%C2%B01&et=1242530796023&er=41" style="width:420px;height:297px" name="flashticker" align="middle"></embed><div style="width:420px;text-align:left;"><a href="http://issuu.com/Kafee/docs/naoh-1?mode=embed&layout=http%3A%2F%2Fskin.issuu.com%2Fv%2Flight%2Flayout.xml&showFlipBtn=true" target="_blank">Open publication</a> - Free <a href="http://issuu.com" target="_blank">publishing</a> - <a href="http://issuu.com/search?q=soap" target="_blank">More soap</a></div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03799077223560428655noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8988718711254207591.post-49028956319790050572009-05-15T19:45:00.001-07:002009-05-15T19:45:14.663-07:00Her Morning Elegance / Oren Lavie<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><p><object height='350' width='425'><param value='http://youtube.com/v/2_HXUhShhmY' name='movie'/><embed height='350' width='425' type='application/x-shockwave-flash' src='http://youtube.com/v/2_HXUhShhmY'/></object></p><p>I was doing some YouTube research on stop action videography and came across this stunningly beautiful music video by Oren Lavie. I love both the video and the music. I hope you do, too!<br /></p></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03799077223560428655noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8988718711254207591.post-29660484732260696032009-05-11T09:59:00.000-07:002009-05-21T08:26:26.760-07:00Good News for Typography Soap Fans<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Gb7SNWDXpD8/SghdeijSz9I/AAAAAAAAA6E/BVcJ4IwIwZ4/s1600-h/3-27-09+Typography+unboxed.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5334616537872650194" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 171px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Gb7SNWDXpD8/SghdeijSz9I/AAAAAAAAA6E/BVcJ4IwIwZ4/s200/3-27-09+Typography+unboxed.jpg" border="0" /></a>The Soap Lab is a small little blog with a teeny tiny following, so when I see a jump in my hits, I know something is up.<br /><br />Well, lately I've been seeing a few of these jumps and it's all because of the Typography Soap. Thank you to these sites (mostly graphic design sites!) that are fans of my letter covered bar:<br /><br /><a href="http://desktoppublishingforum.com/bb/showthread.php?p=71120">Desktop Publishing Forum</a><br /><a href="http://welovetypography.com/">We Love Typography</a> (I think the hits are from a forum that's login only, but the site is so cool!)<br /><a href="http://graphism.fr/">Graphism</a> (France)<br /><a href="http://www.thomasphinney.com/">Phinney on Fonts</a><br /><a href="http://listserv.heanet.ie/typo-l.html">TYPO-L </a><br /><a href="http://font72.com/typography-soap-bar-the-soap-lab">Font72</a><br /><a href="http://www.underconsideration.com/quipsologies/">Quipsologies</a> - Finding the Creative in the Everyday<br /><a href="http://www.twitter.com/mehallo">Steve Mehallo</a> on Twitter<br /><a href="http://twitter.com/aaronbell">Aaron Bell</a> on Twitter<br /><a href="http://www.stylehive.com/tag/typography">Stylehive</a> under "Typography"<br /><br />I am going to produce a limited edition run of these soaps. Starting next Monday you'll be able to buy them in my <a href="http://thesoaplab.bigcartel.com/">Soap Lab shop</a>. I will produce as many as are purchased within the next week or two, and then close The Soap Lab doors again (I would love to have it open all the time but with 2 kids, an eZine, my Soapylove biz, etc, I just can't).<br /><br />So stay tuned and get ready to grab one before they're snapped up by all those letter hungry graphic designers! :)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03799077223560428655noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8988718711254207591.post-74256216278927811182009-05-04T15:25:00.001-07:002009-05-04T15:34:27.124-07:00Interesting Lighting for Photos<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Gb7SNWDXpD8/Sf9rZzOfUsI/AAAAAAAAA50/wKCnPpzWrFc/s1600-h/Glam+shot+cropped.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5332098574821839554" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 170px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Gb7SNWDXpD8/Sf9rZzOfUsI/AAAAAAAAA50/wKCnPpzWrFc/s400/Glam+shot+cropped.jpg" border="0" /></a> Mondays are my "work days", when my husband stays home with the kids while I dedicate some focused time to my projects. One of my favorite Monday tasks is taking photos. When Jim isn't around, the kids are so fascinated by what I'm doing that I'm constantly telling them, "don't touch that!" So I took advantage of my protected workspace today and shot some pics for an article in the upcoming June issue of <a href="http://letsgetsoapy.com/">Let's Get Soapy</a>.<br /><br />I have learned a lot about taking pictures from trial and error. Lighting is the most important and most challenging thing about good photos. I still haven't made a true light box, but was really excited to find a pair of really inexpensive frosted glass lamps at Ikea that I used in the above pic. For $15 I got 2 of them - tall rectangular boxes with lights inside. Simple and easy to use for uplighting or background lighting. <br /><br />The article will be about how to create these non-bleeding colors for your own soap projects. I wish you could see the pretty and subtle shimmer they have, but you'll just have to try them yourself and see! :)<br /><br /><br /><div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03799077223560428655noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8988718711254207591.post-73123568651871474722009-04-30T13:06:00.000-07:002009-04-30T14:55:59.032-07:00Special Issue is Coming Along!<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Gb7SNWDXpD8/SfoFBwU_BbI/AAAAAAAAA5s/f01rjEP4_Ag/s1600-h/Soap+Lab+issue+cover+jpg.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5330578636657329586" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 247px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Gb7SNWDXpD8/SfoFBwU_BbI/AAAAAAAAA5s/f01rjEP4_Ag/s320/Soap+Lab+issue+cover+jpg.jpg" border="0" /></a> The cover is done and many articles have been written! The upcoming special edition of Let's Get Soapy is packed full of tips, great inspirational collages for both texture and packaging ideas, cystal clear photos, and even a guest article from Erin of <a href="http://www.naiadsoaparts.com/">Naiad Soap Arts</a>! You will love what she has done with the featured technique - how to make your own texture sheets. <br /><br />I have 2 more full tutorials to go: the <a href="http://thesoaplab.blogspot.com/2008/11/new-peace-and-quiet-soap-bar-now.html">Peace & Quiet Bars</a> and a beautiful (yet unnamed!) soap featuring a hand painted design within the bar. The eZine will be ready by late May, so make sure to sign up for the <a href="http://www.soapylove.com/soapyclub.html">Soapyclub</a> to be notified of the special early bird discount, which only lasts one week before the eZine is at regular price. <br /><br />To see the current issues available, go to the Let's Get Soapy <a href="http://letsgetsoapy.cerizmo.com/">shopping cart</a>. There are even lots of a la carte tutorials! <br /><br />I'll keep you posted with new photos from the articles being written, so stay tuned!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03799077223560428655noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8988718711254207591.post-25386520614138158782009-04-18T18:46:00.000-07:002009-04-18T18:59:05.376-07:00Special Soap Lab eZine Coming!<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Gb7SNWDXpD8/SeqCy617UNI/AAAAAAAAA5U/MxFIhnR3VTw/s1600-h/Paisley+Samples.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326213320619544786" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 317px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Gb7SNWDXpD8/SeqCy617UNI/AAAAAAAAA5U/MxFIhnR3VTw/s320/Paisley+Samples.jpg" border="0" /></a> Scheduled to be available June 1, a special edition of the <a href="http://www.letsgetsoapy.com/">Let's Get Soapy eZine</a> will be available, focusing exclusively on modern and sophisticated soap making techniques from The Soap Lab. You will learn how to<br /><ul><li>create your own custom texture sheets which work for both MP and CP soap making (see example in photo above using an antique batik stamp), </li><li>engrave soaps for beautiful encased relief designs, </li><li>find inspiration in fashion</li><li>and much more!</li></ul><p>There will be full tutorials with step by step photos, loads of tips and techniques, and the complete supply directory to tell you where to find everything you see. Make sure to join the <a href="http://www.soapylove.com/soapyclub.html">Soapyclub</a> so you won't miss the special early bird discount. I will be posting sneak peeks of the articles here as well, so check back often! </p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03799077223560428655noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8988718711254207591.post-53179559540314366502009-04-09T08:57:00.000-07:002009-04-09T18:03:51.992-07:00Amazing Soap ArtisansFlickr is one of my favorite resources for examples of gorgeous soap creations. There's a group simply called <a href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/soapgroup/">"Soap"</a> with over 1000 members from all over the world. Today I want to show you some of the images that have really stuck with me.<br /><br /><a href="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_430xN.60948270.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 147px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 126px" alt="" src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_430xN.60948270.jpg" border="0" /></a>First is from <a href="http://www.bathinginluxury.com/">Bathing in Luxury</a>. Hiromi is the artisan behind these cold process soaps, and she calls this creamy bar "Downfall", which smells like a sparkly Gin and Tonic. I love the snowy white color and the beautiful iridescence that she added. See more of her pics in her <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/handmadesoap/">Flickr set </a>or you can buy one and see more in her <a href="http://www.bathinginluxury.com/">Etsy shop</a>.<br /><br /><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3309/3298370999_15def84db4.jpg?v=0"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 220px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 173px" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3309/3298370999_15def84db4.jpg?v=0" border="0" /></a>Next is a very striking line of soaps from Gloi Locks Bath and Body. With names like Satyr, Envy, and Depravity, her soaps are dark and mysterious. The labels are stained with coffee and her boxes are also completely hand made. Check out her gorgeous photos in her <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/gloisoap/">Flickr set</a> or shop for some of her creations <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6016058">on Etsy</a>.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3500/3273508615_5a4ebeec81.jpg?v=0"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 229px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 190px" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3500/3273508615_5a4ebeec81.jpg?v=0" border="0" /></a>Last, but not least, are these amazingly realistic soap stones. Each one is handmade by Soapmystic in Deutschland. She puts these stones on ropes for a very pretty presentation, and has many other very eye catching and beautifully simple designs. To see more, check out her <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22296938@N02/">Flickr set</a> or find these stones as a gift set on <a href="http://soapmystic.com/shop/index.php/cPath/32">her website</a>.<br /><br />Do you have some favorite soap designs or soap makers you would like to share? Please leave a comment here! Thanks!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03799077223560428655noreply@blogger.com