Handmade Soaps, Sanitizers and Cleaners Book

In a world where mass-produced, store-bought gifts are the norm, there’s nothing quite like giving someone a handmade gift, especially when it’s something as practical and luxurious as handmade soap. With “Handmade Soap Gifts,” you’ll learn how to make beautiful soaps that are perfect for gift-giving, whether it’s for a birthday, holiday, or just because.

This book features easy-to-follow instructions for making 13 different types of soap that can be made in just minutes. From Coffee Latte Soap, perfect for caffeine-loving friends, to Botanical Soap Sticks, a great wedding favor idea, there’s a soap for every occasion.

Not only are these soaps visually stunning, but they’re also made with high-quality, all-natural ingredients that will leave skin feeling soft and moisturized. The book provides tips for choosing the best ingredients and equipment, as well as step-by-step instructions for making soap safely and successfully.

With “Handmade Soap Gifts,” you’ll be able to create unique, personalized gifts that your loved ones will cherish and actually use. And who knows, you might even discover a new hobby or business venture in the process!

You can read more about this book over at Leisure Arts.

Move over bath bombs—this Christmas, there’s a new mischief-maker in the tub.

If you’re looking for a clever twist on traditional Elf on the Shelf antics or a laugh-out-loud handmade gift, this Elf on the Shelf Soap is a crowd-pleaser. Featuring a mini elf trapped inside a block of clear soap, it’s festive, funny, and totally unexpected. Whether you use it as a prank, a stocking stuffer, or a bath-time surprise, this project will have kids and grownups giggling all the way to Christmas.

Plus, it’s easier than it looks! This DIY uses melt-and-pour soap, which means no lye, no curing, and no mess—just melt, pour, and giggle.

Why You’ll Love This Holiday Soap DIY

Kid-safe and skin-friendly – uses gentle melt-and-pour base
No special tools needed – beginner friendly
Great gag gift or stocking stuffer
Customizable scent and color
Perfect for Elf on the Shelf setups or party favors

Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or just dipping your toes into holiday DIYs, this soap project is as fun to make as it is to use.

Supplies You’ll Need

To make one (or more) “Trapped Elf” soap bars, gather these easy-to-find materials:

½ lb clear melt-and-pour soap base

1 mini Elf on the Shelf figurine (around 3–4” tall)

Microwave-safe measuring jug or double boiler

Soap fragrance oil (peppermint, sugar cookie, or vanilla – optional)

Soap-safe colorant (green, red, or clear tint)

Silicone soap mold (rectangle preferred)

Rubbing alcohol in a spray bottle (to eliminate bubbles)

Soap glitter (optional but cute!)

Craft stick or spoon for stirring

Note: Avoid fabric elves unless they’re completely sealed in plastic wrap! The soap base can soak into fabric and cause mildew.

Step-by-Step Tutorial: How to Make Elf in a Soap Block

Step 1: Melt the Soap Base

Chop the clear melt-and-pour soap into small chunks.
Place in a microwave-safe measuring cup and heat in 20-second intervals, stirring until fully melted and smooth.

Step 2: Add Fragrance & Color

Add a few drops of skin-safe soap fragrance oil and stir.
If using colorant, choose a light hand—too much tint will make your elf hard to see inside the soap.

Step 3: Pour the First Layer

Pour about ¼ inch of the soap mixture into the base of your silicone mold.
Spritz with rubbing alcohol to pop surface bubbles. Let it cool just enough to form a film (2–3 minutes).

Step 4: Place the Elf

Carefully press your elf upright or seated into the semi-set layer.
Now slowly pour more melted soap around the elf, being cautious not to melt any parts of it.
Leave the elf’s hat poking out—or fully encase it for a “totally trapped” effect!

Step 5: Final Spritz & Cool

Spray the top of the soap with rubbing alcohol to pop any final bubbles.
Let the soap set at room temperature for about 1 hour or chill in the fridge for 15–20 minutes.

Step 6: Unmold & Wrap

Once solid, gently unmold your soap bar.
Wrap in plastic wrap or shrink wrap to keep it fresh and prevent surface sweating.

Fun Ways to Gift or Display

This mischievous soap makes the perfect stocking stuffer, Secret Santa gift, or Elf on the Shelf surprise. Here are some ideas to level up the presentation:

Pair with a mini washcloth and gift tag that says:
“Naughty Elf Soap – He Got What He Deserved!”
or
“Free the Elf… One Wash at a Time!”
Place it next to your Elf’s usual spot for a hilarious bathroom setup
Add to Christmas Eve boxes as a silly self-care treat
Create a batch for teacher gifts or classroom party favors

Have you read?