Memorandum
To: Jane Doe
From: Alex Evinger
Subject: How to make soap
Date: 11/1/2021
Reason For Memo
Since you showed interest in making soap, I am writing to provide instructions on how to do so. Below I
have included full information on the process and supplies needed for this project.
Introduction
Soap has been made in much the same way for thousands of years. The traditional process is very
simple. Fats such as tallow are mixed with lye to cause a reaction called saponification, creating soap.
Methods and ingredients have changed over the centuries, but the basic steps are the same. In these
instructions I will be teaching you how to make soap in a modern home setting.
Safety
WARNING Soapmaking uses caustic lye. Lye can cause chemical burns and severe eye damage. Never
handle lye without gloves, full coverage goggles, closed-toe shoes, and long sleeves.
Step 1 – Gather Materials
Before completing any other steps, make sure you have everything you will need. Reference the
following list and confirm that equipment is in working order, and that supplies are in sufficient
quantities.
Oils (8 oz. coconut, 15 oz. olive, 11 oz almond)
Lye (4.8 oz.)
Distilled water (11.2 oz.)
Heatproof container such as stockpot
Large glass measuring cup
Immersion blender
Safety equipment (gloves, goggles, long sleeves)
Soap mold
Rubber or silicone spatula
Thermometer
Step 2 – Mix the Oils
Since we will be using a blend of oils, we must first mix them together.
Add the three oils to the stockpot over very low heat and stir until no solids remain.
Remove from heat.
Step 3 – Prepare the Lye
In the large measuring cup, add the lye to the water and carefully stir until completely dissolved.
Warning Undissolved lye can remain in the final product, causing irritation or burns.
The lye-water mixture will become hot.
Set aside in a safe place.
Step 4 – Emulsifying
Wait for the two liquids to cool down. They should be less than 120 degrees Fahrenheit and ideally close
to each other in temperature.
Place the immersion blender in the oil, turning sideways slightly to release trapped air.
Carefully pour the lye-water down the shaft of the blender into the oil.
Turn on the blender and mix the two liquids thoroughly until it reaches a thin batter like consistency
(called “trace”) and no streaks remain.
It is at this time that you would add any fragrances or colorants if you desire.
Step 5 – Molding
Continue blending the soap until it reaches the consistency of housepaint.
Remove the blender and carefully pour the still liquid soap into a mold.
Use a spatula to scrape the soap off the sides of the mixing container, and to smooth the top of the soap
in the mold.
Gently tap the sides of the mold to release air bubbles.
Step 6 – Drying
Allow the soap to dry in the mold for 3-5 days.
Complete
You have now successfully made soap from scratch. While the soap is safe and effective after just a few
days, allowing the soap to cure for up to a month will help to harden it and make it last longer. This is a
basic formula for soap. Using different oils and in differing proportions will yield vastly different results.
If you wish to utilize different formulations it is vitally important that you use the proper amount of lye.
Too little lye will fail to produce soap and too much will leave unreacted lye in the finished product,
which can cause significant injury. Be sure to use a lye calculator to avoid these possibilities.
