Video:How to Rebatch Soap

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Transcript:How to Rebatch Soap

Hi, I'm Jen D'Amore for About.com, and this video is about rebatching your soap, using tips from About.com's candle and soap making site.

Information About Rebatching Soap

So you've made some soap, and you've made some mistakes, or you've carved into create shapes and you have left overs. Well the first thing to consider when re-batching soap is if you are going to combine all of your mistakes together, or keep them separate. When you can, keep them separate, if there is enough to pour a bar, otherwise, you'll end up with a larger batch of muck.

Notes About Rebatching Soap

The second thing to consider is how long the soap has been curing, or drying. Moisture is good, so the longer it's been drying the more moisture it needs to be reused. No Matter how old it is, start by cutting it or shredding it into small pieces. If it's fairly new, you can try to to just reheat that. But if it's older, it's best to add a little liquid and let it sit overnight to soften and absorb.

Soften Soap to Rebatch

You do have your choice in liquids to add. Water is one option, but consider adding something that will enhance your soap. This batch had coffee grinds added to it as an exfoliant, so rather than adding water, I'm going to add coffee. Adding coconut milk is another great way to add moisture, since it's a thick and rich. The more moisture you add, the longer the soap will need to cure. After letting it sit overnight, slowly heat it in a double boiler or crock pot until it returns to liquid form. Then pour it, or scoop it into molds. Using a boiling bag is another way to remelt. Once it's melted, cut off the corner to easily squeeze into in a mold. If you're combining a variety of soaps, and end up with a strange colored mush, there's alwys a way to enhance it. Just work with it rather than against it.