Behind the scenes at Amani

Having your own soap making business might seem like fun, especially making beautiful swirly soaps, but the truth is it is a LOT of work and much of it is pretty mundane. Take today's task: measuring oils. In order to make the best use of my time when I DO get to make soap, I prepare ahead by master batching my oils. That's just a fancy way of saying I measure and mix big batches ahead of time.I order all of my base oils and butters in 25-50 pound containers which is significantly more economical though not necessarily easy on my back.

First I thoroughly cleaned all my buckets.

Then I start weighing ingredients. Here's a 25# bucket of organic unrefined shea butter.

And here's 50# of coconut oil. It's solid at room temperature so you have to cut it out with a big knife.

And....here's the knife after I broke it.

Here's what happens when you start to get tired and try to rush. Spilled semi-solid coconut oil. #notfuntocleanup

Five hours later, 1,500 # of base oils measured out... 

And ready for soap making.

The next picture needs to be me asleep on the couch.