Wearing gloves, weigh lye into a disposable bag. Weigh water. Take both outside and wearing a mask, pour the lye into the water. Stir until dissolved and let cool to around 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
12 ounces water, 4.6 ounces Lye
Pour lye water into oils when both are the correct temperatures and mix with a hand or stick blender until it begins to thicken (reaches trace).
Add essential oils if desired and blend well.
1 ounce essential oil
Pour into a prepared 3lb mold (lined if necessary) and insulate for 24 hours.
Remove from the mold and cut. Allow to cure for 3-6 weeks to harden.