About Virginia Made Products

If you’ve never tried “real” soap, as opposed to the commercial detergents you see in a store, you are in for a real treat. I create my soap by the cold process method. It takes the most time (it must “cure” for a minimum of 4-6 weeks) but I believe it is the best method for producing high quality, handcrafted soaps. All soap begins with a mix of lye (sodium hydroxide), liquid and oils/butters. It is the chemical reaction between these ingredients that produces the soap. No need to worry - there is no lye in the finished product. The chemical reaction is what converts the lye/fat mixture to glycerin, which is a natural by-product. Glycerin is a natural humectant that attracts moisture from the air to help keep your skin hydrated. Handcrafted soap doesn’t strip your skin of its natural, protective oils. Commercially made soap uses harsh chemicals, synthetic lathering agents and a whole bunch of chemicals that most of us can’t even pronounce. And these manufacturers strip their product of glycerin.

There are so many oils, butters, plant extracts (madder root, alkanet root) and exfoliants (poppy seeds, pumice) that can be used in making soap. All the ingredients have their own unique properties that will pamper your skin. Olive oil is rich in oleic acid and is effective in keeping the skin younger looking and healthy. Coconut oil is known for its moisturizing properties. Shea butter has been held in high regard for thousands of years for its skin healing properties. Mango butter is a natural source of Vitamin A, helps to reduce fine lines and wrinkles and protects the skin from weather and UV radiation. Besides its rich chocolate-y scent, cocoa butter moisturizes, helps to soothe skin inflammations such as psoriasis and eczema, and is another great anti-ager. Liquids used in creating soap include water, beer, and also has wine as well as milk. Goat’s milk is especially high in Vitamin A and helps keep skin naturally moisturized. Honey is another skin-loving ingredient that is often added. The list is never-ending. Any artisan can craft a soap that fits your needs and provide you with a healthier choice for your skin.

The list of fragrances is endless. Lavender is always a favorite. Did you know that lavender can help to reduce stress and improve sleep? It also has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Eucalyptus has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties. Peppermint has a fresh invigorating scent and is a natural decongestant. Citrus fragrances, such as orange, lemon, lime, and tangerine are energizing. Love the smell of coffee? There are great coffee fragrances that get you going in the morning! Love the smell of peony? Lilacs? Magnolias and honeysuckle? These heavenly scents and more will relax you and remind you of a spring evening or maybe of your first corsage. Love honey? Try my Pure Honey Soap or for a slightly different honey fragrance, try my Wildflower Honey Soap. Love roses? From the traditional (Baby or English Rose) to Wild Rose, there is a rose scent just for you. Whatever fragrance is your favorite, I am sure I have it.

Besides bar soaps, I also make lotions, creams, bath bombs, bubble bars and bath melts. Have a particular fragrance and would like to totally immerse yourself in it? Just ask. I can assist you in creating your own spa experience by creating a product line just for you.

I also have some unique children’s novelty soaps, from penguins to dinosaurs to reindeer, that your little ones are sure to love.

Gift baskets/sets are also available. You can customize your own and have it sent directly to you or sent as a gift to that special someone. (We will send you a picture of your gift and can include a beautiful handmade gift card).

I know you’ll be thrilled with my handcrafted soap and variety of other products. My products smell fantastic, look fantastic and best of all, feel fantastic.