Bath and Body

Soap Making, Oils and Recipes

Back Porch Soaps Soap Making Classes

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All of Back Porch Soaps hands-on, natural skincare and soap making classes are taught by Marla Bosworth , president and founder of Back Porch Soap Company. She brings 30 years experience in retail, marketing and market research (13 years experience in the handmade bath and body industry, specifically). During the past 10 years she has taught thousands of students worldwide how to make soap, start a soap business, and formulate skincare products. Here’s what some of the students have said about her classes:

“I really enjoyed the Bath & Body Business Boot Camp. The information Marla gave was excellent. I am excited about the new levels of my Bath & Body Business.” –Ronisha F.

“This boot camp was well worth the investment. Marla was extremely knowledgeable and organized. The biggest benefit (other than the valuable information) was to have the focus on bath and body. All of the questions were relevant. It was also great to meet other women and develop relationships with them.” –Carla M.

“Marla is awesome! Inspiring and motivational. She is so business savy! She gave me so much information and clarified any questions I had. Marla is a wonderful instructor and an overall great business leader. Thanks Marla!” –Anonymous

“This is the most ‘user’ friendly workshop I’ve ever attended. Everyone was so nice and helpful. Marla is so knowledgable and is a wonderful instructor!!! I thoroughly enjoyed this experience and I’ve learned a lot! Thank you so much.” –Anonymous

“I loved Marla and think she did an excellent job. She covered a lot in a short period and was very easy to communicate with.” –Janice

Crafty types on the East Coast who want to learn to make their own organic and natural skincare products should check out Back Porch Soap Company’s Classes. Held on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, students can choose from liquid soapmaking, bar soaps, anti-aging products and even body butters. Company owner Marla Bosworth also teaches in her home state of Massachusetts and if you don’t feel like travelling, check out the DVDs and learn from home.

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Comments

  2. Does Marla ever give online classes? I live in East Texas and it would be a long trip to take the class.

  4. Hi Debbie,

    I’m hoping to make it to Texas in 2013 or 2014 to teach a series of workshops!

    In the meantime, I will be offering more online classes on my website.

    best wishes,
    Marla

Have you read?

DIY Herbal Vapor Rub Balm – A Natural Vicks-Style Decongestant for Cold and Flu Relief

When someone in the house starts sniffling, you just know it’s going to make the rounds. That’s when I reach for this homemade herbal vapor rub—our family’s go-to chest balm for easing congestion, coughs, and that heavy-headed sick feeling.

Made with gentle yet powerful essential oils, this balm works just like the classic Vicks rub (but without the synthetic stuff). It’s safe, effective, and smells like a eucalyptus grove with a hint of grandma’s medicine chest—in the best possible way!

Whether you’re treating a toddler’s sniffles or trying to head off a man cold, this DIY vapor rub will be your winter wellness MVP.

Why You’ll Love This Natural Decongestant Balm

  • No petroleum or nasties – A clean, green homemade Vicks alternative 
  • Gentle enough for kids – With optional adjustments for littlies 
  • Nourishing balm texture – Melts into skin without being greasy 
  • Essential oils – Provide cooling, clearing, and comforting support 
  • Customizable – Make it stronger for adults or extra-gentle for babies 

Ingredients

Base:

  • 1/4 cup coconut oil (or olive oil for a softer balm) 
  • 2 tbsp shea butter or mango butter 
  • 2 tbsp beeswax pellets 

Essential Oil Blend (for adults):

  • 10 drops eucalyptus essential oil 
  • 8 drops peppermint essential oil 
  • 6 drops rosemary essential oil 
  • 4 drops tea tree essential oil 
  • 4 drops lavender essential oil 

Optional for kids under 5:
 Replace eucalyptus and peppermint with fir needle and cedarwood atlas, and halve the total essential oil amount.

How to Make Your Own Vapor Rub

  1. Melt the base:
     In a double boiler (or a bowl over simmering water), gently melt the coconut oil, shea butter, and beeswax together. Stir until smooth and liquid. 
  2. Cool slightly:
     Remove from heat and let cool just a few minutes—enough that it’s no longer scalding hot but still liquid. 
  3. Add essential oils:
     Stir in your essential oil blend. Don’t add them too early or the heat will evaporate their goodness. 
  4. Pour into tins or jars:
     Carefully pour into a small glass jar or metal balm tin. Let cool completely before putting the lid on. 
  5. Label & store:
     Store in a cool place away from sunlight. Balm will keep for up to 6 months. 

How to Use Your Herbal Chest Rub

  • For chest and back: Rub a small amount onto chest, upper back, and soles of the feet during cold or flu season. 
  • For steam relief: Add a pea-sized amount to a bowl of steaming water, cover your head with a towel, and inhale. 
  • For headaches: Dab a touch on temples and neck (use caution and avoid eyes). 

Mum Tips

  • Patch test first if you’re unsure about sensitivities. 
  • Keep a tiny jar in your handbag during winter for on-the-go sniffles. 
  • For a nighttime version, add a few drops of Roman chamomile or lavender for extra sleep support. 

 

 

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