Paris: Soap Making Workshop (Cold Process Soap Making)

Nestled in the heart of Paris, the "Paris: Soap Making Workshop" offers an engaging opportunity to explore the art of cold-process soap making. Participants will dive into the rich history, intricate chemistry, and essential safety practices of this captivating craft. With hands-on guidance, they’ll blend unique essential oils and create their own custom-scented soap, ready to be enjoyed after a meticulous curing process. This workshop promises an immersive experience that goes beyond the typical soap-making class, leaving attendees with not just a new skill, but a deeper appreciation for the science and artistry behind it.

Key Points

• A hands-on 135-minute workshop in Paris that teaches the fundamentals of cold-process soap making, including safety, equipment use, and custom scent blending.
• Participants create a batch of personalized soap, which will be available for pickup or delivery 24 hours after the course.
• The workshop is available in French, English, and Vietnamese, with a full refund for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
• Participants can reserve spots without upfront payment and are encouraged to wear appropriate attire and bring personal masks for the lye portion.
• After the workshop, the soap mixture must cure for 4-6 weeks to harden and dry out, with the instructor guiding participants through the curing process.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Workshop Overview

The soap making workshop in Paris offers participants a hands-on introduction to the art of cold-process soap making.

Priced from Kč 1,629 per person, the 135-minute workshop is available in French, English, and Vietnamese. Participants can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and they can reserve their spot without an upfront payment.

The workshop covers the history of soap making, basic chemistry, safety precautions, and the process of measuring, mixing, and monitoring temperatures.

Participants will create a batch of custom-scented soap using essential oils and take home their first batch after a curing period.

Learning Objectives

The workshop covers several key learning objectives for participants.

They’ll gain an introduction to cold-process soap making, learning the history and basic chemistry behind it. Safety is emphasized, as participants get hands-on experience measuring, mixing, and monitoring temperatures when working with lye.

Participants will also learn to use soap molds, liners, and other necessary equipment. Blending essential oils for custom scents is another highlight, allowing individuals to create their own unique soap formulations.

Workshop Format

Participants will engage in a hands-on experience after an initial instructor demonstration. They will create a batch of custom-scented soap using optional essential oils. The final products can be picked up or sent to their address 24 hours after the course.

| Step | Description |

| — | — |

| 1 | Instructor demonstration of measuring, mixing, and monitoring temperatures |

| 2 | Participants use soap molds, liners, and necessary equipment |

| 3 | Essential oil blending for custom scents |

| 4 | Participants pour their soap mixture into molds |

| 5 | Curing process takes several weeks before use |

Preparation for Class

Although the workshop is hands-on, participants should come prepared.

Wearing old clothes is recommended, including long sleeves, full-length pants, and closed-toe shoes. This protects against potential spills or splashes during the soapmaking process.

Participants should also bring a mask for the lye portion, though these are available on-site if needed.

It’s also a good idea to think about which essential oil blend they’d like to use to scent their custom soap.

Approaching the class with a positive attitude and willingness to learn will ensure an enjoyable and rewarding experience.

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Soap Making Process

After an introduction to the history and chemistry of soap making, participants dive into the hands-on portion of the workshop. Under the instructor’s guidance, they measure, mix, and monitor temperatures as they create their own custom-scented soap.

| Step | Description |

| — | — |

| Mixing | Participants combine oils, lye solution, and optional essential oils. |

| Pouring | The soap batter is poured into molds and allowed to harden. |

| Unmolding | Hardened soap is removed from the molds and cut into bars. |

| Curing | Soap bars are set aside for several weeks to fully cure before use. |

With patience and attention to detail, participants leave with their first homemade batch of cold process soap.

Essential Oil Blending

As participants ponder their desired scent profiles, the instructor offers guidance on essential oil blending. Each person can choose from a selection of pure essential oils to create their own custom fragrance.

The instructor explains the properties of different oils and how to balance top, middle, and base notes. Participants experiment, mixing small amounts and sniffing the results.

With the instructor’s help, they land on a unique blend that will infuse their handmade soap. Excitement builds as participants anticipate the final cured product, eager to enjoy their personalized scent.

Curing and Final Product

Once the participants have poured their soap mixture into the molds, the instructor explains the crucial curing process. The soap must now sit for 4-6 weeks to fully harden and dry out. This allows the chemical reaction to complete, resulting in a milder, longer-lasting bar of soap.

The soap must now sit for 4-6 weeks to fully harden and dry out, allowing the chemical reaction to complete for a milder, longer-lasting bar.

The instructor highlights four key steps in this process:

1. Unmold the soap after 24-48 hours.

2. Cut the soap into bars using a soap cutter or knife.

3. Place the bars on a drying rack in a cool, dry area with good air circulation.

4. Flip the bars periodically to ensure even drying.

Frequently Asked Questions

What safety precautions should participants take during the workshop?

Participants must wear long sleeves, full-length pants, and closed-toe shoes to protect themselves. A mask is provided for the lye portion, but participants can bring their own if preferred.

Everyone must exercise caution when handling the hot soap mixture and equipment.

Is the workshop suitable for children?

No, the workshop isn’t recommended for children under 10 years old due to the use of lye and hot materials.

How long does the curing process take?

The final soap products require several weeks of curing before they can be used.

Ask Away

Can I Bring My Own Soap Molds?

Yes, participants can bring their own soap molds to the workshop. However, the workshop provides all necessary equipment, including soap molds, so bringing your own is optional. The instructor will guide participants on proper mold usage during the hands-on portion.

Is There a Vegetarian/Vegan Soap Option Available?

Yes, the workshop offers a vegetarian/vegan soap option. Participants can choose to use plant-based oils instead of animal fats to create their custom soap during the hands-on portion of the class.

Can I Keep the Soap-Making Tools After the Workshop?

No, participants don’t get to keep the soap-making tools after the workshop. The tools are provided for use during the class, but they remain the property of the workshop organizers. Participants take home the soap they make, not the equipment.

Are There Storage/Shipping Options for the Final Soap?

The final soap can be picked up 24 hours after the course or sent to your address. Participants don’t keep the soap-making tools – they’re for use during the workshop only.

Can I Make Adjustments to the Soap Recipe During the Class?

Yes, participants can make adjustments to the soap recipe during the class. The instructor will guide them through the process and provide recommendations on customizing the scents and ingredients to create their desired soap.

Final Words

The "Paris: Soap Making Workshop" offers a hands-on introduction to the art of cold-process soap making. Participants will learn the history, chemistry, and safety behind this craft while creating their own custom-scented soap. With demonstrations, guided instruction, and a 4-6 week curing period, attendees can expect an engaging and accessible experience. No upfront payment is required, making this workshop an enjoyable way to explore the world of soap making.

You can check availability for your dates here: