CREATE: FLORAL SOAP

i have been hoarding dried flowers for as long as i can remember. i find them in nooks and crannies all around my home, in books, lost pages, drawers, little boxes, tucked away in dress pockets, etc. perhaps it's because i can't let go or because i find them fascinating and a whole other level of beauty, but no matter what it is, i know my love affair with them is permanent.

this is a perfect and simple gift you can make for for all the beautiful ladies (and men! think ferns, rosemary, pine) in your life.

supplies

soap base*
soap molds (or silicone molds)*
essential oil (i used rose, my favorite)*
dried flowers
microwave-safe bowl
toothpick
knife
optional: glitter

*found at michael's crafts

directions

lay your flowers in whichever arrangement you like at the bottom of your soap mold. next, cut your soap base into smaller pieces and microwave for 30 seconds, and then 10 second intervals after that until fully melted. let cool for a few seconds to avoid bubbles. add a few drops of your favorite oils and then pour into the mold slowly and carefully, trying to avoid large bubbles. the flowers will most likely float to the top, so use a toothpick to arrange the petals however you like.

after 20 minutes or so, check on the molds and if the flowers have floated to the surface, add a bit more melted base to fully cover.

if you are adding a touch of glitter, add at the same time as the flowers.

let cool for at least an hour before removing.

it may take a little tender force to get the soap out of the mold ~ try using a sharp knife and going around the edges slowly until it pops out. just be sure to trim off any excess.

hope you enjoy!