1. Step-by-Step Process
   • Prepare Lye Solution:
     • Add lye to water (never water to lye!) in a well-ventilated area.
     • Stir until clear; let cool to 100–120°F.
   • Melt/Oil Prep:
     • Melt solid oils (e.g., coconut, palm); mix with liquid oils.
     • Cool oils to 100–120°F.
   • Mixing:
     • Slowly pour lye into oils; blend with a stick blender until “trace” (pudding-like consistency).
   • Additives: Stir in fragrance/colorants at light trace.
   • Molding: Pour into molds, insulate, and cure for 24–48 hours before unmolding.
2. Achieving Trace
   • Types of Trace:
     • Light trace: Thin batter (ideal for swirls).
     • Medium trace: Pancake batter consistency.
     • Thick trace: Difficult to pour.
   • Troubleshooting:
     • Seizing: Overheating or fragrance oil acceleration.
     • False trace: Oils re-solidifying (common with high coconut oil).
3. Curing Basics
   • Cure soap for 4–6 weeks in a cool, dry place to harden and mellow pH.
4. Assignment: Make a Simple Cold Process Soap
   • Recipe: 500g oils (60% olive, 30% coconut, 10% castor), 5% superfat.
   • Submission: Photos of each step (lye mixing, trace, molded soap) + final bar.

Week 2 Key Takeaways

• Lye Math: Precision is critical—always use a soap calculator.
• Oil Synergy: Balance cleansing, hardness, and lather.
• Cold Process Mastery: Trace consistency and curing define success.