Five Artisan Soap Uses You May Not Have Thought Of
Soap is much more versatile than we often give it credit. Most of us think of soap as a good emulsifying and cleansing agent for both hand and body, but the unique characteristics of soap--and artisan soap in particular—expand its use far beyond the limited pigeonhole we often place it in.
Understanding the expanded uses of artisan soaps will be helpful in preparing soap with both ingredients, coloring and scent that match the potential niche uses. To that end, here are five expanded applications for artisan soap which you may not have thought of.
Mosquito Repellant Bite Relief
Prevent mosquito bites by using quality-produced artisan soap with the right ingredients. A combination of citronella oil, eucalyptus oil, lavender oil, menthol oil, and calendula included in your soap will help in first repelling mosquitos from your skin and clothes. Tee tree soap is one of many soap types that can work as a bug repellent and aid in mending minor cuts and scrapes.
For more rapid post-mosquito/bug bite relief from the itch, rub some quality artisan soap across the affected area. This will not only help to soothe the itch, but also provide a reminder not to scratch skin on and around the bit itself.
Fix Nail Pocks
As a descent short-term fix to nail holes and nail pocks artisan soap can be used to fill the hole. Not only can this provide a long-term fix, in many instances will not require additional painting over the hole if the color match is at least closely appropriate. Like wall plaster or putty, artisan soap can effectively fill the hole from a previously hung picture or piece of art.
When using soap to fill nail holes in a wall, it is advised to use soap that is white to match as well as odorless. It is always best advised to paint after applying, but not wholly necessary.
Artisan Shaving
With more fat or tallow, a quality lathering artisan shave soap can provide a more enjoyable wet shave for the traditional shaver (often those using safety razors or straight razors in their grooming routine). Shaving soaps usually include much more fat content, including animal tallow in the highest-quality soaps. Excess fat allows for a thicker, creamier lather, allowing the shaver to glide the razor across his face with ease and protection against the sharp blade.
Those familiar with the art of wet shaving will understand the best shaving soaps are applied using a quality shave brush and very hot water. For the artisan shave soap maker, added richness to the base and some manly scents also come in handy.
Marking Fabrics
For the experienced seamstress or tailor, using soap as a marking tool for fabrics and linens is something that has been employed for years. Doing so allows professionals to know where cuts, folds and stitches may be required to be placed without requiring something to be put in place that would be more permanent. In most cases, a small soap mark will fade away on its own accord but will surely disappear after the clothing has been properly washed.
If you plan to make soap for use in this way, it is advised that no essential oils or any added ingredients be included to ensure whatever close it is used on is not negatively affected.
Deodorize Stinky Shoes
Sweet smelling artisan soaps can be used in many different deodorizing situations. For the best odor-relieving soaps, place said soap inside a offensively-smelling shoe or shoes to find quick relief from unwanted scents.
The right smelling soap will not simply mask the unpleasant odor of an old, wet pair of shoes, but it can also help to wick away some moisture as well. If you intend to make a soap as a deodorizer in this way, plan on using a much larger concentration of good-smelling essential oils. This will be sure to provide a strong enough smell to mask nasty odors. In such cases, however, be sure the same soap does not get mistakenly used as hand soap as higher concentrations of strong essential oils can burn and otherwise harm the skin if not properly diluted.
If you’re looking to expand the ways you create and use artisan soap, the possibilities go far beyond a nice hand, face or skin cleanser. But, with each unique use, care should be given to ensure the soap contents match the desired use.