Skype Soap Tutorial with Emily Shieh!

On Friday, I was able to participate in a Skpe soap tutorial taught by Emily Shieh on a gradient technique using primary colors to create new hues. There were 4 other participants from all over the world and I had an amazing time!

This was Emily's 3rd trial for this sort of teaching format and I was lucky enough to be a part of her class. As soon as I knew I would be able to participate, I started preparing. I tried some recipes that would allow for slow trace, so I would have lots of time to play with the layers. I also bought new micas (non bleeding) and liquid Lab Colors (bleeding) just for the session, but I will get tons of use out of them!

There was some improvisation, and I ended up using both colorants, but I am quite happy with the results. There is always room for improvement, but I feel that Emily's technique was AWESOME, and although I have done quite a few gradient soaps, I had never done one in the way she taught us. I won't give away her secret in case she begins teaching this as a paid class, but it was genius!

Next, I hope Emily writes a book! Come one Emily! You know all us crazy soapers would buy it! 

Also, I am looking for a name for this bar. It is scented with an energizing citrus blend.

Farmer's Market!

She could sell me a million bars!

Sea Glass Soap, a beachy scent!

More Sea Glass Soap. a floral scent

Preparing for the Market!

Soap shavings are pretty!

Farmer's Market Display!

I had a great day at my first farmer's market. I was so nervous previous to the day, but it all turned out great! I was well prepared and had plenty of stock (over 160 bars). I was nervous that I would either sell out, or that I would not have enough stock. Well, I sold about half, so it was a good day.

The Lake Oswego Farmer's market is lovely. It is located on a lake and is full of friendly shoppers, great food and wonderful music. My location was off to the side a bit, not prime retail space at all, but I did well considering. I was just so happy to be there. I have grand dreams of doing a weekly gig once I am more established, but I will take what I can for now. I am still a newbie and am loving growing my business every step of the way!

I have started making sea glass soap, which is a result of leftover soaps that I have scraps of. Soapers never waste a thing, so even if I have a batch that is too vibrant for my liking, I can still use it in a sea glass soap, and I love the results! I will bring them to my next market and hope they sell well.

I am taking a bit of a break from making the soap and am focusing on selling what I have. I really do enjoy every aspect of this endeavor. I have found my passion!