Michaels:
Good selection of soapmaking supplies, molds and kits that simplify
things for newbies. They have a few scented oils. Look in the baking
department for more molds and seasonal bags and containers for
your creations. Also online at www.Michaels.com
. One can no longer purchase items from their website, but they do
feature some items and offer instructions.
Bath & Body Works: A
good place to pick up essential oils. They aren't cheap, but they
are the real thing. For a list of those available in their stores and
recommendations for mixing them, go to www.bathandbodyworks.com If you like a
particular one of their product fragrances, make your own copycat
version and save money.
Grocery Store: Salts
and baking soda are here. Epsom salts will likely be with medicines, as
will glycerin. The seasonal and baking aisle will usually turn up some
containers for your products. It's also possible to use extracts such as
vanilla and almond to scent mixtures, but it takes a lot and usually
discolors the product. Specialty markets, such as Central Market
will have a larger selection of salts and some scented oils to choose
from.
Natural
Food and Health Store: My
advice is to go in and look around. Some have all kinds of
oils,essential and fixed. Other ingredients too. Some have none. If you
don't see what you want, ask. They might order it for you or tell you of
a nearby retailer that will have what you need.
Pharmacies:
These vary. Big chain stores have little or nothing. Small privately
owned drugstores, especially if they are old, can turn up lots of finds.
Glycerin, some oils, and citric acid (used in bath bombs) can sometimes
be found here. Sadly, there are fewer and fewer of them.
Online
Majestic Mountain Sage: MMS is a full service
supplier of raw materials to the handcrafted soap and cosmetics
industry. This place has everything you can imagine and more. This
is where I get many oils and additives. A pound of Citric Acid, used in
bath bombs, is available here for $2.95. Items are shipped quickly
and well packaged. Great quality and value. Explore the site. Lots
of excellent information and recipes are shared.
eBay: Face it. If it
exists, you will find it on eBay. I've bought lots of supplies in
auctions here, but from various sellers. Prices are good. Quality
varies. Do a search and whatever
it is, it is bound to turn up.
Bramble Berry:
Another soapmaking supplier. Huge selection. There are recipes too, but
they are not easily found. I've never bought here, but will. I found
something called Poppin' rocks
that are granules shaped like rock salt but made
from sugar, with compressed carbon dioxide injected into the sugar, to
create a crackle and fizz when introduced to water. Won't those be fun
in bath salts and scrubs?
The Toiletries
Library: Dependable recipes for everything
imaginable! Simple bath salts to mouthwash. Easy to navigate
and a wonderful and informative reference section. Whether you are
a novice or an experienced toiletry maker, you will find something of
interest here.
Soap
Center: Not a
retailer, but a good source of recipes and information. Links to many
suppliers can be found here. A good jumping off point in your searches.
Google:
This list could go on and on. There are a multitude of shared recipes
and suppliers on the internet. Do a search for whatever you need and you
are sure to find it. A hint though. Be sure to add recipe to your subject if looking
for bath salts instructions or you'll end up with hundreds of links to
those selling their products. Also, even if looking for bath salt
supplies, most retailers will be considered soapmaking suppliers. Happy
hunting!
If you come across a great website for recipes or a supplier you like
that isn't here, please email me
and I will add a link.