300 Handcrafted Soaps by Marie Browning (2003, Paperback)

This book used the pour and melt method. It was very easy, this was the first book I have used to experiment with any kind of soap making. There are some beautiful designs and ideas to make your soaps extra special. Such as painting , decoupage, embedding ,molded, embossing,decals on soaps,laminated, etc. most of these I have never even heard about. Simple ingredients to add to the soaps for different effects, like exfoliating scrub soaps and different scents,etc.

The method is all the same, melt your soap base, then you add the frangrance,colorant (optional), additives , and pour into the mold. Most of the recipes make 2-3 bars, depending on the size. This book has very good and a clear overview on technique, prep. tips,equipment and ools,additives,molds,soap bases, fragrance and aromatherapy and more. It also gives a brief overview of hand-milled vs. melt and pour soap making. Beautiful illustrations make this book a lot more appealing . Also with this method your soap is ready to use right after it hardens in the mold.

I plan to use this book a lot,especially for making gifts.It is so easy to do. This book is definatly worth the price on it($14.95).