HOW TO MAKE PURE TALLOW SOAP FROM SCRATCH: A SIMPLE RECIPE

Pure tallow soap recipe

If you’re a fan of grass-fed tallow, you’ll love this simple and pure tallow soap recipe. It’s perfect for beginners looking to make soap from scratch.

As the owner of a skincare shop (which you can explore here), I’ve been crafting soaps with a blend of tallow, coconut oil, and olive oil for a while, and the results are amazing! The combination of oils works wonderfully together, enhancing each other’s benefits. However, after receiving numerous requests from my customers for a pure tallow soap, I decided to create this recipe to meet their needs.

Why use tallow for soap making?

If you’ve been following me for a while, you know how much I adore grass-fed beef tallow. It’s truly amazing, packed with nutrients that are fantastic for the skin.

I’ve previously discussed what tallow is and why skin loves grass-fed tallow. You can dive deeper into its benefits here.

Tallow is the perfect fat for soap making. It’s easily accessible, adds both hardness and creaminess to soap bars, and is incredibly nourishing for the skin. I love using it on its own in this pure tallow soap recipe or mixing it with other oils for added benefits.

For more reasons why I include tallow in my soap recipes, check out the full details here.

A true homesteader’s soap

I also love the fact that our homesteading ancestors made tallow soap like this for their own use. Making it ourselves today feels like taking a step back in time, reconnecting with a simpler, more sustainable way of living. It’s a wonderful tradition to continue, and it’s amazing to see how these old methods still benefit us today.

Things to know about soap making

If you’re new to making soap from scratch, there are a few safety precautions you should keep in mind. Soap making requires lye, which turns the oils into soap. Don’t worry—there’s no lye left in the finished soap after the curing process, but we do need to handle it with care during the process.

Lye is highly alkaline, and the lye water or soap mixture can burn your skin if it splashes on you. I recommend wearing gloves, long sleeves, and eye protection when working with lye. Additionally, when mixing the lye into the water, some fumes are released, so it’s best to do this outdoors.

That’s all! While these precautions might seem a bit intimidating at first, don’t let them discourage you from learning how to make soap from scratch. Once you get the hang of it, it’s such a fun and rewarding activity. If you follow the safety guidelines, you’ll be just fine.

I also have a post where I go over the soap-making process and share the essential equipment you’ll need. I recommend checking it out before you start!

Customize it

Like many other DIY skincare items, this pure tallow soap recipe can be easily personalized with your favorite essential oils. Whether you choose a single scent or get creative with a blend, the possibilities are endless!

Keep in mind that some essential oils are more potent as soap scents than others. For example, citrus oils tend to be too mild to provide a strong fragrance. Some of my personal favorites for soap are peppermint, lavender, and lemongrass.

If you prefer a more traditional approach, you can also skip the essential oils altogether, creating an unscented version just like the homesteaders used to make. This unscented option is especially good for those with very sensitive skin, who may find it more soothing.

Pure tallow soap recipe directions

INGREDIENTS:

  • 32 oz. tallow
  • 4.2 oz. lye
  • 12.16 oz. water
  • 1.5 fl. oz. essential oils (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS:

  • Weigh the tallow and place it into a crockpot. It’s easiest to melt the tallow before weighing it. If the tallow is below 100°F, turn the crockpot on low to gently heat it.
  • Weigh the water in a heat-safe container or sturdy plastic bucket, and weigh the lye separately.
  • Check the temperature of the tallow. You want it to be around 100°F. Let it cool if necessary.
  • Once the tallow has reached 100°F, take the lye and water outdoors. Wear gloves and safety goggles, then carefully and slowly pour the lye into the water. Stir gently.
  • Once the lye water turns from cloudy to clear, leave it to cool for about 10 minutes.
  • Carefully pour the cooled lye water into the tallow.
  • Use an immersion blender to mix the soap. After a few minutes, it will become creamy and start to thicken. Continue blending until it reaches “trace,” a light pudding consistency.
  • Add the essential oils (if using) and blend again to incorporate them into the soap.
  • Pour the soap mixture into molds. Cover the top with wax paper and wrap the molds in towels to insulate.
  • After 24 hours, remove the soap from the mold and slice it into bars.
  • Let the soap cure in a well-ventilated area for about 4 weeks before using.

    Pure tallow soap recipe video

    CONCLUSION

    In conclusion, making pure tallow soap from scratch is a simple and rewarding process that allows you to create a natural, nourishing product for your skin. By following the steps carefully and taking the necessary safety precautions, you’ll be able to craft your own homemade soap using high-quality ingredients like grass-fed tallow. Whether you choose to add essential oils for fragrance or leave it unscented, this soap provides all the benefits of tallow, offering a creamy, skin-loving bar that’s perfect for everyday use. Enjoy the satisfaction of making your own soap while embracing a traditional, time-tested method!

    20+ MYSTERY HALLOWEEN MAKEUP IDEAS FOR WOMEN

    Spooky season has arrived, which means it’s the perfect time to go bold with Halloween makeup without raising any eyebrows. We’ve gathered some of the top Halloween makeup looks from Instagram, featuring everything from iconic villains to mind-bending optical illusions. Beginners will love the easy-to-master dark eyeshadow styles, while beauty enthusiasts can dive into more intricate and spooky creations. Let’s dive into the looks!

    CLASSIC WICKED WITCH MAKEUP

    To fully embrace the green witch aesthetic, start by applying green body paint to your face and body. Enhance your look with heavy black eyeliner for a dramatic effect, and opt for a striking black lipstick. A large witch hat is essential, and if your hair isn’t already green, consider wearing a dark wig. Don’t forget to practice your best evil laugh—it might come in handy! And remember, if your cat looks frightened, you know you’ve nailed the vibe.

    GHOSTFACE EYESHADOW MAKEUP

    Channel the essence of classic slasher films with an eye look inspired by Scream. Makeup artist Kim Salgado transformed her eyelids with a bloody effect using cream face paint from Mehron and Tag Body Art. To complete the look, she accessorized with a tiny knife and bloodshot drop contacts from Pinky Paradise. It’s a perfect way to pay homage to the genre while making a bold statement!

    SPIDER GLAM MAKEUP

    For a combination of scary, sexy, and DIY-friendly, you can easily craft your own spider-inspired glam lashes using Glamnetic’s Lush Lashes and black eyeliner to draw the “spider legs.” If you prefer a quicker option, consider investing in creepy-crawly eye shadow stickers that achieve the same eerie effect. Both methods will elevate your look for a hauntingly glamorous vibe!

    BLACK AND WHITE HARLEQUIN MAKEUP

    To achieve a striking black and white harlequin look, start by applying white face paint evenly across your face. Next, take black face paint to create sharp lines, forming triangles around your eyes and a split lip effect in black and white. For an extra touch, add a few small stars or diamonds near your eyes to enhance the overall design. This playful yet bold look is sure to stand out!

    SPOOKY HOLLY GOLIGHTLY MAKEUP

    You’ll definitely turn heads at the costume party with this unique twist on Audrey Hepburn’s Holly Golightly from Breakfast at Tiffany’s. Create a look that embodies quiet luxury on one side of your face, complete with classic makeup and a chic updo. On the other side, go for dazzling skeleton vibes, incorporating bold makeup and intricate designs. This striking contrast will make you the center of attention!

    MINNIE MOUSE MAKEUP

    Dressing up as Minnie Mouse is an adorable and easy costume idea! Start with a classic polka dot dress and add Minnie ears for that signature touch. Complete the look with a bright red lip and a cute nose detail. This ensemble will transport you right back to Disney World!

    Bonus: Halloween eye makeup is simple to create and can be a fun activity to do with your best friends. It’s super cute and perfect for adding a little extra magic to your Minnie Mouse look!

    MELTING WITCH MAKEUP

    To achieve a striking melting witch look, begin with green face paint, applying it generously to one side of your face and blending it out as if you’re covering up a bad hair day. Next, take black eyeliner and draw spider webs around your eyes for an eerie effect. If you’re feeling adventurous, use liquid latex or silicone to create that melting skin vibe for an even more dramatic look. Finish off with dark lips and smoky eyes, and you’ll be all set to scare some folks!

    THE NIGHTMARE BEFORE HALLOWEEN MAKEUP

    If you’re a fan of Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas, this look is perfect for you! Makeup artist @Ashslays_xx crafted a stunning Sally Shock-inspired Halloween glam using paint from the female-owned brand Elli J Beauty. This creative transformation captures Sally’s essence while adding a unique twist, making it a fantastic choice for any Halloween celebration!

    PINK GIRAFFE HALLOWEEN MAKEUP

    Unleash your creativity with this Pretty in Pink giraffe makeup look for Halloween! It’s a stunning design that doesn’t require a steady hand, making it accessible for everyone. 

    This look features curly hair adorned with pink and white details that will leave everyone in awe. To achieve this style, you’ll need pink, white, and black eyeshadow from your favorite palette. Complete the ensemble with baby pink lips and a touch of blush for a cohesive and adorable finish. Enjoy showcasing your artistic flair!

    STITCHED DOLL MAKEUP

    To create a striking stitched doll look, begin with blue face paint to establish that perfect doll aesthetic. Next, use black eyeliner to draw stitches around your mouth and forehead, as if you’ve just stepped out of a sewing class gone awry. Add some big false lashes to make your eyes really pop. Finally, finish off the look with bold red lips and well-defined brows for an eye-catching, playful effect. You’ll be ready to impress and enchant!

    IT CLOWN PENNYWISE HALLOWEEN MAKEUP LOOK

    Get ready for a dramatic and stunning IT clown Pennywise Halloween makeup look! Bring the iconic horror character from Stephen King’s IT to life with a bright red wig and deep red eyeshadows. Grab your favorite smoky palette and dark red lipstick to achieve that unsettling clown vibe. Use burgundy lipstick and add line details on your face for an extra creepy touch. This look will definitely make a bold statement and send shivers down spines!

    CHESHIRE CAT MAKEUP

    To channel a Cheshire Cat vibe, start by applying pink and purple face paint, creating fun stripes all over your face and body. Next, use black and white face paint to draw a large grin with sharp teeth—this will definitely be an eye-catcher! Add some sparkly eyeshadow and big lashes to enhance that magical, whimsical look. Finally, don’t forget to top it off with cat ears to complete your feline aesthetic. You’ll look like you just stepped out of Wonderland!

    GLITTERING SKULL GLAM MAKEUP

    To achieve a stunning glittery skull glam, begin by painting half your face black to create that skull effect. Then, go wild with glitters—use a mix of big and tiny glitters, applying them all over for added depth and sparkle. Don’t forget to add dramatic lashes to make your eyes really pop. Finally, finish off with a spritz of setting spray to ensure your look stays intact while you terrorize the party. You’ll be the glittering star of the night!

    CYBORG MAKEUP

    Showcase your superhuman makeup skills with a striking cyborg-inspired look! With intricate metallic details and futuristic elements, you’ll make everyone believe you’ve just stepped out of another dimension. Use silver and chrome face paints to create sleek lines and robotic features, and consider adding LED lights or metallic accessories for an extra wow factor. This look is sure to leave a lasting impression and elevate your Halloween game!

    MYSTIC RUNE SORCERESS MAKEUP

    This mystic rune sorceress look is definitely wild and enchanting! Start by applying bold black lipstick to set the tone. Next, enhance your dramatic eyes with heavy mascara for a striking effect. Using fine eyeliner, draw rune symbols all over your face to add that mystical touch. For an extra spooky vibe, don’t forget to pop in some white contacts. You’ll create a mesmerizing look that’s sure to captivate everyone around you!

    CHUCKY MAKEUP

    This look is all about embracing your fierce side with vibrant orange hair and striking stitched makeup. Start with a skin-tone base, then use black eyeliner to draw stitches across your face for that edgy effect. Add a touch of red eyeshadow around the stitches to enhance the overall look. Finish off with a sharp lip color and fierce nails to complete your transformation. And remember, those scissors are just for show—no real cutting involved! You’ll be ready to command attention wherever you go!

    OPTICAL ILLUSION MAKEUP

    You’ll leave everyone seeing double with this stunning optical illusion makeup look! The rainbow-shaded eyes take center stage, showcasing a vibrant blend of colors that mesmerize. Creative artist Brigitta Varga added a touch of long-wear red lipstick for a subtle yet striking pop of color, perfectly complementing the bold eye design. This look is sure to turn heads and spark conversations wherever you go!

    Splitting Apart Makeup

    Embrace a darker twist on Barbiecore pink by blending classic beauty favorites with bold, edgy flair. Start with trusted essentials like ELF Cosmetics’ Power Grip Primer and KVD Beauty’s Good Apple Liquid Foundation for a flawless base on the “normal” side. For the skull design, turn to face paint from CC Beauty and create intricate details using eyeliners from Gavissi Beauty and Glisten Cosmetics.

    GORGEOUS GHOUL MAKEUP

    Casper may be a friendly ghost, but you’ll be the most gorgeous ghoul around! Start by grabbing your favorite black and white eyeliners to trace as many playful ghosts across your face as you desire.

    CHIC SCARECROW MAKEUP

    If you’re short on time but still want a festive Halloween look, a scarecrow is the perfect choice! Start by using black eyeliner or eyeshadow to draw stitches across your mouth for that classic scarecrow vibe. Then, create a cute circle around your nose to add to the charm. Pair this with some earthy tones in your outfit, and you’ll achieve a fun and easy look that’s perfect for any Halloween celebration!

    GLAMOROUS FRANKENSTEIN MAKEUP

    Add a fun twist to the classic Frankenstein look with bright green skin and colorful makeup! Start by applying green face paint as your base. For an interesting touch, use different shades of eyeshadow for each eye. Then, draw stitched details around your eyes and mouth with black eyeliner for that signature look. Finish off with a bright pink lip to create a vibrant pop. Just remember, with those bolts in place, be careful not to trip as you strut your stuff! You’ll be an eye-catching and playful version of this iconic character!

    TEARS OF A CLOWN MAKEUP

    You can never go wrong with dramatic clown makeup, especially with a pop art-inspired twist! This style elevates the classic spooky look to a whole new level. Start with a bold base in bright colors, and use graphic outlines to create exaggerated features. Incorporate playful dots and lines for that comic book feel. Finish with dramatic lashes and a striking lip color to complete your transformation. This eye-catching look is sure to make a memorable statement at any Halloween event!

    CONCLUSION

    Whether you’re a seasoned makeup artist or a beginner looking to experiment, these 20+ mystery-themed Halloween makeup ideas offer a world of possibilities. From spooky skeletons to enchanting witches, there’s a look to suit every taste and skill level. So, gather your makeup supplies, let your creativity run wild, and prepare to be the star of the Halloween party. Happy haunting!