Making soap is a process that can be done with many common household products as you will find in this post. I will share a diy soap recipe you can try today to learn how to make handmade soap with the stuff you have.

Why make your own soap?

Soap making is a fun, rewarding activity that can be learned and done easily with the whole family. You can learn how to make bar soap with stuff you have at home. And it might surprise you what ingredients go into making soap. Check out the diy soap recipe I have listed below.

How they make soap in the old days

The first time I made bar soap I realized how common the ingredients were for making soap. This makes total sense thinking back on the invention of homemade soap. People did not have access to the comforts we do today. When people made soap for normal daily use and not for a hobby. They only had certain types of ingredients to use. Most people made soap using animal fat like beef tallow and lard from their own animals.

Saponification is a chemical reaction

The other active ingredient to making handmade soap is the use of lye otherwise known as caustic soda to turn the oil or fat into bar soap. This is saponification. Previously,wood ash was the older method of making lye for soap.

What to look for when sourcing supplies

You might be thinking you don’t have lye just sitting around, but I bet there’s a chance you do. And, if not, you can get some very easily. Lye is just drain clog cleaner. I buy it in the powder form and make sure it says 100% lye on the bottle. If it contains other ingredients then it’s not safe to use. So, you can see that it isn’t that hard to make handmade soap from stuff you have on hand.

Safety first

Here is a list of items that you will want to have on hand to make your own bar soap using this diy soap recipe. Using proper safety measures is necessary to prevent skin burns and irritation, but this is not hard to do safely and it’s still something I did with my kids. Educating them is important so they understand to respect the process. I feel this is good for fostering caution and respect.

The list of supplies

I will include links to products I use, these are affiliate links which just means I will earn a small commission if you click the link and purchase after you click. This does not cost you extra. Thank you in advance for purchases made through my links! )

Supplies you will need

• Safety glasses or goggles https://amzlink.to/az0507f3cXq7h #ad

• Gloves https://amzlink.to/az0YwB5i0oJd3 #ad

• Digital food scale https://amzlink.to/az0tqk5werm4u #ad or a cheap one, but look for one with two numbers past the decimal

• Thermometer or heat gun https://amzlink.to/az09rdUjNwlzd #ad

• 2 heat resistant bowls ( plastic ) https://amzlink.to/az07DZpFzM1rO #ad
• Lye or sodium hydroxide https://amzlink.to/az0xM6bXYlDPx https://amzlink.to/az0nDocIZ4scq #ad
• Coconut oil https://amzlink.to/az0q0wEJGFr0N #ad
• Olive oil https://amzlink.to/az0DPAmTDfkQI #ad
• Fragrance oil or essential oil https://amzlink.to/az0RlCPMYropD
• Distilled water ( just get this at the grocery store in a gallon jug)
• Soap mold https://amzlink.to/az0Q8JjxZyK8b #ad
• Stick blender https://amzlink.to/az0KpreinBFmL #ad
• Mica or soap coloring https://amzlink.to/az02Y0pCEACA5 #ad
• Towel ( any old towel)
• Sturdy pan or tray (this is just to sit the soap mold on for the occasional volcano effect. It’s harmless!)
• Cardboard ( just cut a box down to make a piece that fits a little larger than the top of the soap mold) or a wood plank
• Something heat resistant to cook the soap. I have use an old crock pot, stainless pot, large heavy plastic bowl. No aluminum pans or foil ( these are reactive to the process and not in a good way).

Soap making method

I am going to guide you using the crockpot method. It’s a slower process that allows you to learn the basic proces. I would encourage you to watch a few youtube videos too. Other methods include microwaving, stovetop, crockpot, Hot process, cold process, and High temp fluid hot process. Use lower temp processes to allow more time to make swirls and designs. The hotter the process the faster it goes and sometimes leaving no time for adding colors, swirls, or designs.

Starting the process

• Firstly, set your crockpot on high and add the oils (recipe below), You can add them all at one time and let them melt completely. While you are waiting for the oils to heat and melt.
• Secondly, mix the lye/water mixture.

• I add the lye to room temp water in a well ventilated area and keep a distance and open a window because the fumes are strong at first. I,usually, pour the lye slowly down the handle of a silicone spatula and gently stir to dissolve completely. This will heat up quickly once added to nearly 200 degrees fahrenheit

What temperature to use

• Basically, you will want to let it cool down and let the oils heat up. Albeit, temperature is not as important as the difference between the two, but try to make sure your oil and lye mixture are no more the 10 degrees difference when you mix them.

When and how to add the Lye

• Whenever the temps are both close enough add the lye water to the oils slowly i.e. to avoid splashing and gently incorporate with spoon or spatula. Generally, I try to soap at around 100 degrees-110 degrees, but it can be lower or higher slightly, ( turn off the crockpot at this point) Add the lye water to the oils slowly to avoid splashing and stir with the spatula gently. Eventually, this will start to incorporate and look creamy.

How to mix the soap batter

• You can use just a wisk for the next part, but your arm will hate you for it. However, I use a stick blender to mix it. Generally, this really speeds up the process. Just be sure to place the stick blender straight down into the mixture and sit it on the bottom when mixing.

How to know when soap is ready to pour

• Then, stir it between pulses until it thickens to trace. This is the point where the lye water and oils have completely combined and can be tricky to recognize. Just look up trace to see how to tell, but it should look thicker and when you drizzle the spatula in the soap it will leave a slight trail.

When the soap is at trace you can add colors, fragrance and other additives when you are ready to advance. Just know that some colors and fragrance can make the soap set up or seize quickly and make pouring into molds a challenge.

Any fragrance with vanillin can turn soap brown. This doesn’t render the soap useless, just not always a desireable color for soap. You can still use it or shred it and use it for adding in texture to lots of soap making projects.

You will just stir the fragrance in right before pouring. I will recommend that you do your first batch small and unscented. This will help you understand if the fragrance or colorants are disturbing the usual behavior of the soap.

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Pouring the soap

• Finally, pour your soap batter into the mold and gently tap the mold as you pour to level and get the air bubbles out. I, also, use a skewer to run back and forth in the batter to remove air bubbles and end by making a full swipe around the perimeter of the mold.

Cover the mold

• Cover the mold with a piece of cardboard or slab of wood and wrap with a towel to hold in the heat that will help saponify the soap quicker. With this diy soap recipe, the soap will harder pretty quickly in most cases, but it depends on humidity, temp, and other factors from your environment. Here’s another example of how to make handmade soap with stuff you have-make your own molds with corregated vinyl boards you can buy at Wal-mart. I’ll make a video tutorial for that soon.

Just wait for the soap

• Wait 24 hours before attempting to remove the mold. It should not feel squishy when removing, but it might not be extremely hard. Just take it ouw of the mold as soon as you feel the soap it not getting marred up from the process. If you wait too long it can be difficult to cut the soap.

Cut the soap

• Cut the soap with wire or a soap cutter. I, often, just use a kitchen knife. Wipe the blade or wire after each cut to keep the cut clean and sharp. If the soap is very hard it will not cut easily, especially, if you let it dry too much before the cut.

And, there you have it. Your very own bars of soap that you can scent or design as gifts or for personal use any way that you want. It’s best to wait to use this for at least 3-4 weeks. Some say longer to help the water evaporate from the soap and makes the bar last longer. This is a debate that has many opinions. I tend to just do whatever I want here and not worry about the opinions of others on this. I have never had soap irritate my skin or cause burns for not waiting for the saponification process to finish over the following weeks.

Thanks for checking out my handmade soap recipe and blog about how to make handmade soap with stuff you have and I hope you gained some value from this material. I hope you will follow my Youtube channel here for other craft ideas and continue visiting my blog for ideas and tutorials. Below is a link to another blog post about crafting.

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I will be sharing many ways to make diy soap from the methods to tools and additives in my future blog post and youtube content. Thanks again and Happy soaping!

~Andilynn Crafting Junkie

As an Amazon Associate I may earn from qualifying purchases made through the links you click on this post. Thanks as always! https://craftingjunkie.com/disclaimer/

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Let’s learn how to Crochet a Valentine’s Day Gift Card Holder (Free Pattern Included!) and make your sweetheart or favorite person super happy this Valentine’s day!

Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to show your love with a handmade touch. This easy crochet gift card holder is not only thoughtful, but practical for gifting! Whether you’re new to crocheting or a seasoned pro, this step-by-step guide and free pattern make it simple to create a charming envelope-style holder that’s sure to impress.

Why Crochet a Gift Card Holder?

• Personal and handmade gifts mean so much more.
• It’s quick and budget-friendly.
• Perfect for Valentine’s Day or any special occasion!

What You’ll Need:

• Yarn of your choice (choose colors that feel festive or match your style!) Here’s a starter kit of yarn here ( affiliate link)
• Crochet hook- I used 4.5mm, but use the hook that best fits the yarn you chose. Here’s a cheap, but good kit with everything here ( affiliate link)
• Tapestry needle ( included in the above kit)
• Scissors (affiliate link)

Free Pattern Instructions:

1. For the Envelope

• Start by ch 15, turn, sc across the row turn and repeat 20 rows.
• Then dec, sc 11, dec, ch, turn, dec, sc 9, dec, ch, turn, dec, sc 7, dec, ch,
• turn, dec, sc 5, dec, ch, turn, dec, sc 3, dec, ch, turn, dec, sc 1, dec, ch, turn,
• dec, sc 1, ch, turn, dec, ch, tie off.

(Assembly Tips)

• Fold your crocheted piece into an envelope shape.
• Use a tapestry needle and matching yarn to stitch the sides securely.
• Add any decorative touches, like a button, bow, or embroidered heart, to make it extra special!

Why You’ll Love This Project:

• It’s a beginner-friendly crochet pattern.
• It takes minimal time to complete.
• It’s versatile—you can make it for other occasions, too!

2. For the Crochet heart

• Start with a magic circle
• ch 3, then
• in the magic circle start with 3 tc, 3 dc, ch 1, 1 tc, ch 1, 3 dc, 3 tc, ch 3, slip stitch, ch 1.
• Leave a long tail so that you have two strings to tie this onto the front of the envelope.
• Pass the ends through the front of the envelope using a needle or hook to tie the heart onto the envelope
• Use the heart as the button for closing the envelope.

Watch the Tutorial:
Need a little extra guidance? Check out my YouTube video here for a step-by-step walkthrough. And the crocheted heart video here

Final Thoughts:

There’s nothing like the joy of giving a gift made with love. This Valentine’s Day, surprise someone special with a handmade gift card holder that’s as unique as they are. Have fun crocheting, and don’t forget to share your creations with me on social media!

Happy crocheting!

The post HOW TO CROCHET A VALENTINE’S DAY GIFT CARD HOLDER (FREE PATTERN INCLUDED) appeared first on Crafting Junkie.

Beginner Crochet Series:  Slip Knot, Chain, and Slip Stitch

Welcome to the first tutorial in our Beginner Crochet Series, where we’ll guide you step-by-step to build your crochet skills. In this post, you’ll learn three foundational techniques:

1. How to create a slip knot
2. How to crochet a chain (ch)
3. How to join stitches into a square with a slip stitch(sl st)

Mastering these basics will set you on the path to creating beautiful projects. Let’s get started!

What You’ll Need

Before we dive in, gather the following supplies:

• Crochet Hook: Start with a 5mm (H-8) hook, ideal for beginners.
• Yarn: Use medium-weight yarn in a light color (easier to see your stitches).
• Scissors

Step 1: How to Create a Slip Knot

The slip knot is the first step in almost every crochet project.

Instructions:

1. Hold the yarn in your left hand
2. Make a loop but this time twist it once creating an X shape.
3. Insert the tale of the yarn under the twisted loop.
4. Pull the tail (the longer piece) through the loop to form a knot
5. Tighten the knot around the crochet hook

Tip: If the knot feels too tight or loose, adjust it by pulling on the yarn tail or the loop itself.

Step 2: How to Crochet a Chain

Chains are the building blocks of most crochet patterns.

Instructions:

1. Hold your hook with the slip knot in your dominant hand.
2. Wrap the working yarn (attached to the skein) over the hook from back to front.
3. Pull the yarn through the loop on your hook. You’ve made your first chain stitch!
4. Repeat the process until you have about 20 chain stitches.

Tip: Keep your stitches loose enough to allow your hook to glide easily.

Step 3: Create a Slip Stitch

A slip stitch joins stitches together and helps create a neat edge. Let’s turn your chain into a simple square.

Instructions:

1. After creating your chain, turn the chain around to work backwards, insert the hook into the first chain stitch.
2. Yarn over and pull it through both the chain and then you will have two loops on the hook. Then pull the loop closest to the hook through the other loop on your hook. This creates a slip stitch.
3. Continue slip stitching into the next chain stitch repeating the rows until you’ve formed a square.
4. Finish by pulling the yarn tail through the final loop and tightening it.

Tip: Pull the slip stitch gently for smooth edges—don’t over-tighten.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Chains Are Too Tight: Relax your grip on the yarn and practice pulling the loops gently.
• Slip Knots Come Undone: Ensure the knot is snug before starting your chain.
• Square Doesn’t Look Even: Focus on consistent tension and practice until your stitches are uniform.

Practice Makes Progress

Congratulations! You’ve just created your first crochet square using a slip knot, chain stitches, and slip stitches. Practice these techniques daily to build confidence and muscle memory.

What’s Next?

In the next tutorial, we’ll dive into single crochet stitches and learn how to create a simple rectangle. This will take your skills to the next level!

Join the Journey: Share your progress in the comments below or tag me on social media with your first square. Let’s crochet together!

To read the blog post about yarn tension click here

To watch the Youtube tutorial of today’s blog post click here

The post Beginner Crochet Series:  Slip Knot, Chain, and Slip Stitch appeared first on Crafting Junkie.

Crochet tension is one of the most common challenges for beginners. Whether your stitches are too tight, too loose, or inconsistently both, uneven tension can make your projects look less polished than you’d like. Don’t worry—tension mastery comes with practice and the right techniques!

We’ll explore what crochet tension is, why it’s important, and how you can achieve consistent stitches for all your projects.

Throughout this article I will be sharing some very affordable options to get your supplies. I am an Amazon Associate and I may earn from qualifying purchases made through these links at no additional cost to you. I appreciate any purchases made through my links, but feel free to find any crocheting supplies you wish.

What Is Crochet Tension and Why Does It Matter?

Tension refers to how tightly or loosely you hold your yarn and create stitches. It affects:

• The size of your project (gauge).
• The appearance of your stitches.
• The durability of your finished piece.

Consistent tension ensures your project matches the pattern’s specifications and looks professional.

Common Crochet Tension Problems Beginners Face

• Tight Tension: Projects feel stiff, and it’s hard to insert your hook into stitches.
• Loose Tension: Projects are floppy with large gaps between stitches.
• Inconsistent Tension: Rows vary in width or size.

7 Steps to Mastering Crochet Tension

1. Start with the Right Tools

• Choose the Correct Hook Size: Use the recommended hook size on your yarn label or pattern. If you need a cheap crochet kit that will have almost everything you need. Check out this super affordable option here, but any crochet hook in a few sizes are a good way to start.
• Experiment with Hook Material: Some crocheters find metal hooks glide smoother, while wooden hooks provide better grip.
• Test Your Yarn: Different yarn weights and textures can affect tension. Practice with smooth, medium-weight yarn to start.

2. Practice Holding Your Yarn Correctly

Your yarn-holding technique directly affects tension. Try these steps:

1. Wrap the yarn around your pinky finger to control flow.
2. Pass it over your index finger to guide the yarn to your hook.
3. Keep your grip gentle but firm—like holding a pencil.

3. Focus on Your Grip

Avoid squeezing your hook or yarn too tightly. A relaxed grip allows the yarn to move smoothly. Take breaks to release hand tension.

4. Check Your Stitches Regularly

Pause every few stitches to check their size. Use your hook to adjust loops before continuing. Aim for uniform height and width.

5. Use Consistent Motion

Crocheting with steady, repetitive movements leads to even stitches. Avoid rushing or pulling the yarn too hard as you finish each stitch.

6. Practice Swatching

Before starting a project, make a small swatch using the pattern’s stitch and yarn. Adjust your tension until the swatch matches the required gauge.

7. Relax and Take Breaks

Tension issues often stem from stress. Sit comfortably, breathe deeply, and take breaks to avoid fatigue.

Tips for Correcting Common Tension Problems

Too Tight?

• Use a larger hook.
• Loosen your grip on the yarn.
• Wrap the yarn fewer times around your fingers.

Too Loose?

• Switch to a smaller hook.
• Increase the wraps around your fingers.
• Practice pulling the working yarn slightly tighter as you finish each stitch.

The Key to Consistency: Practice!

Crochet tension takes time to master, so don’t be discouraged by early mistakes. Practice daily, focusing on small, simple projects like washcloths or scarves to refine your skills.

Remember: every crocheter’s tension is unique. The goal is to develop a consistent style that works for you.

Final Thoughts

Mastering crochet tension as a beginner can feel daunting, but it’s a skill you’ll develop naturally over time. By following these steps and practicing regularly, you’ll create beautifully even stitches in no time.

What’s your biggest tension challenge? Share your tips or questions in the comments below!

Get a free guide to crocheting, sewing, and soap making by signing up for me email list here. I will not spam you. I will, occasionally, send emails for new posts or important updates about crafting.

You can follow my Youtube tutorial about yarn tension by clicking here.

Youtube tutorial to learn to master yarn tension

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