New Earth Soaps

The Future Is When???

2011-10-25T08:25:00.002+08:00

To all my fellow creative friends out there I want to ask you something. It may bring up emotion. It may stir something inside that you weren't expecting. Only you will know the answer to this one.

Question.

If for one reason or another, you had to close the door on your workspace for a good while, what would be the emotion you feel on closing that door on the thing you love to do most?

I could give you options here, but I don't wish to influence your response. It needs to be all yours, and yours alone.

Now don't fret, all you lovely's out there that regularly buy my products. I am not giving up making soap. I am just exploring options out there on running things, running them smoother, so maybe there can be a little slice of quality time out there for me to grab. A little bit of 'contemplating my navel' time.

Also, I am curious to learn how tied up we are all with doing the art / craft pursuits we love so much.

So.....how would you feel?

What's Going On?

2011-08-29T08:45:00.002+08:00

OK yes, I have been MIA for a while. Alot has been going on...too much if you ask me. There is a fabulous online course by Kelly Rae Roberts (won't be run again till 2012 but worth the wait) and I began it just over three weeks ago. I am actually behind, hoping to catch up today, despite 4 loads of washing, no food in the fridge and a front lawn that needs it's edges done.

A big part of the course is about getting over your fears, your creative fears, the unknown. By the end of week one, something happened. I am still nutting it out, but my deeply buried hopes, dreams, fantasies of a creative life began to surface. It's not all there yet. It's still coming to the surface. Really I am only writing this for my own benefit, to get it out. But who knows, if you read this and something shakes loose in your deep seated dreams and fears, that's great.

Forever, I shall be making soaps and skin care. Never again will I buy overpriced muck that often contains by-products ( a nicer name they give to waste product) of other chemical manufacture. Wow, that was blunt, but true according to my research. New Earth Soaps will live forever, but down deep I have rediscovered the need to explore other arts and creative pursuits. I have much more research to do yet, and it may or may not pan out, but it's exciting to feel the feelings of self-discovery that began many years ago and to have them reappear. It's thrilling. It was always put aside due to the setup costs but that's a feeble excuse really. OK, thats enough rambling for now. I will get back to my exploring, study, and unfortunately the lawn edges and we shall see what develops.

Silky Moisture Lotion visits the Kimberley

2011-08-05T14:46:00.000+08:00

Oh I do love to here feedback. I love hearing how my products improve people's skin, but this one takes the cake!

I have a lovely regular customer that buys my Silky Moisture Lotion, after finding that it helps with her eczema. Recently this lovely lady took a work trip to the kimberleys, in the north west of Western Australia, (where the sun is harsh and the days are dry) taking her trusty moisturiser along for the ride. This is what she sent me.

Oh I just love these photos! aren't they just gorgeous? My moisturiser getting along in the rugged outback of WA. Thanks lovely lady. You made my day. xo

Pets Diary

2011-07-30T17:50:00.002+08:00

Excerpts from a Dog's Diary......

8:00am - Dog food! My favorite!
9:30am - A car ride! My favorite!
9:40am - A walk in the park! My favorite!
10:30am - Got rubbed and petted! My favorite!
12:00pm - Lunch! My favorite!
1:00pm - Played in the yard! My favorite!
3:00pm - Wagged my tail! My favorite!
5:00pm - Milk bones! My favorite thing!
6:00pm - Oooh, Bath. Bummer.
7:00pm - Got to play ball! My favorite!
8:00pm - Wow! Watched TV with the people! My favorite!
11:00pm - Sleeping on the bed! My favorite!

Excerpts from a Cat's Daily Diary......

Day 983 of my captivity.
My captors continue to taunt me with bizarre little dangling objects.

They dine lavishly on fresh meat, while the other inmates and I are fed hash or some sort of dry nuggets. Although I make my contempt for the rations perfectly clear, I nevertheless must eat something in order to keep up my strength.

The only thing that keeps me going is my dream of escape. In an attempt to disgust them, I once again vomit on the carpet.

Today I decapitated a mouse and dropped its headless body at their feet. I had hoped this would strike fear into their hearts, since it clearly demonstrates what I am capable of. However, they merely made condescending comments about what a 'good little hunter' I am. Bastards.

There was some sort of assembly of their accomplices tonight. I was placed in solitary confinement for the duration of the event. However, I could hear the noises and smell the food. I overheard that my confinement was due to the power of 'allergies.' I must learn what this means and how to use it to my advantage.

Today I was almost successful in an attempt to assassinate one of my tormentors by weaving around his feet as he was walking. I must try this again tomorrow -- but at the top of the stairs.

I am convinced that the other prisoners here are flunkies and snitches. The dog receives special privileges. He is regularly released - and seems to be more than willing to return. He is obviously retarded.

The bird has got to be an informant. I observe him communicating with the guards regularly. I am certain that he reports my every move. My captors have arranged protective custody for him in an elevated cell, so he is safe. For now........

Shiny New Look

2011-07-25T08:15:00.001+08:00

Hi all. If you have been wondering where I have been hiding, ( I do hope you have been wondering about what I have been up to) I have been trying to create something I thought I had an ability to do, but, it turns out, I don't really. I have struggled much more than I thought and in hindsight, perhaps I should have got professional assistance on this one.

It turns out though there is a wealth of knowledge out there and I would like to thank each and every one of you out there that helped with guidance, encouragement, and ideas to help me see this through.

So, without further ado I would like to show you, at last, the first mock up of my new product labels.

Ta Da!!! So....what do you think? There is still time, and room for change. If you have any, I mean any feedback to give, good, bad, ugly, I would love to hear it. Even though I fancy myself as a bit of a graphic designer, OK, more of person with a font obsession, this has been far from easy for me to put together and I am sure it could use yet more work. I want to hear your thoughts.

No Shampoo Day Three!

2011-07-21T16:08:00.002+08:00

Yep, I love it! The bi-carb and vinegar hair treatment is absolutely definitely working wonders. My hair is shining all healthy and lovely. Love it, love it, love it!

If you haven't already, give it a try. There are lots of bloggy stories about it out there, such as my link below in my first article about this subject, (or just click here). I wonder just how much money I will be saving on shampoo's and conditioners?

No Shampoo, Day Two!

2011-07-21T15:58:00.002+08:00

It's working! Day two and my hair feels amazing! It's soft, smooth and I can run my fingers thru it with little knotty resistance. It's looking a bit less fluffy and flyaway too, which is always an annoyance with my hair.

I can see this b-carb and vinegar thing sticking round. :D

What? No Shampoo?

2011-07-19T11:37:00.002+08:00

Oh my gosh! This is so cool, I just had to share it with you. For years, I have heard of people stopping using shampoo and starting to just rinse their hair with a little bi-carb blended in warm water. I thought, OK? That's a little weird.

But I stumbled upon "A Sonoma Garden's" blog and their own personal journey to giving up shampoo. Well, I had to try it. There seems to be a few stories of failure and difficulties in getting the process just right, but I seemed to have bypassed all this and immediately saw the results. My long, flyaway hair is now soft, has less tangles and feels amazingly clean. For years I have used every natural shampoo available. I gave up on commercial shampoos years ago because something in them burnt my scalp and would often leave me with painful sores and lumps. Not nice!

OK, so, my way of doing this process is real simple. I have an empty 2 litre vinegar bottle, I put 5 tablespoons of bi-carb in it, filled it with hot water, and let it still for a couple of hours. Then I ran some through my dampened hair, massaging it into the scalp. Then, with another big bottle, I had just a teaspoon of ordinary household white vinegar, topped up again with warm water and rinsed, rinsed, rinsed.

After letting my hair dry naturally, my hair is clean, shiny and feels fabulous. It may be a little on the fluffy side though. I may smooth over my hair with a little argan oil on my palms. I am going to keep going with this and let you all know how it goes, and what it looks and feels like after doing this for a while. So far, I love it!

Wake Up!

2011-07-12T06:53:00.000+08:00

Green Tea and Peppermint with a splash of lemongrass is my latest soap. It's winter here down under and right now it is cold! My fingers are painfully cold typing this. Mittens, I must get me some mittens.

Well, here it is, a soap to help you on your way on a cold morning, Green Tea and Peppermint!

Green Tea is full of antioxidants, helps boost your metabolism and immune system. We are unsure how much is absorbed through your skin, but on these cold mornings, it all helps.

Peppermint Essential Oil will be of great benefit if you are feeling sluggish, finding it hard to get moving in the morning.

Lemongrass Essential Oil can give a sense of emotional wellbeing, lifts your mood, refreshes and reduces fatigue.

It's such an energising blend, It has to help you out a little bit on these chilly winter morn's. Keep warm my friends.

All Rugged Up

2011-07-11T11:02:00.000+08:00

We needed a big day out so we packed some snacks, and some money for sushi and bakery foods and headed to my old home town of Dunsborough WA. It's a great place to escape, surrounded by some of the most beautiful beaches I have ever seen and some lovely bushwalks. It was just the place to relax and unwind for a day.

When we got to town, we stopped for our lunchtime treats and in the park were these -

Aren't they so FUN! Check out their website gallery for more as this wasn't the only place the knits were placed. I love the pics of the kids in Dunsborough Primary helping. They are still wearing the same uniform I once did. x

The Beautiful Work by DELicious Designz

2011-07-05T15:49:00.000+08:00

A while back I was lucky enough to inherit a ridiculous quantity of wool, and since there was no way I would ever use much of it, I gave about half of it to Del of DELicious Designz. It was great to know it was going to a home where I just knew it would get used. I still have heaps, so much I am sure more may be donated sometime in the future, after I have stared at it long enough.

Well, this is what Del made for me, as a thank you. Don't you just love it? I have used it several times, for when I am popping down the shops for just a few things or visiting a friend and need to take a bunch of bits with me. It's handy, strong and gets lots of admiration.

It matches my hat that Del made a while back too.Groovy baby!

Body Butter!!!

2011-06-17T10:28:00.000+08:00

Oh at last! I have visited this subject again and again, and several times I just shelved the idea of formulating a great body butter I could be completely happy with. So many test batches I made just didn't cut the mustard. Then one morning, boom! The recipe in it's entirety appeared in my head. Quickly I scribbled it down, started to play, a little fine tuning, and here it is!

Currently it's available in one essential oil scent blend 'Sweet Soul' but more blends shall be following real soon. As you can see from the photo above it's alot of fun to make. I want to make alot more real soon.

My New Toy! (reposted from last month due to blogger losing it)

2011-06-13T09:20:00.000+08:00

OK, this may or may not come across like a bit of bragging here, but I am just going to have to prove to you all that this purchase was absolutely necessary. No, really, is was absolutely, completely and utterly necessary. I now own a thermomix!

OK, they cost alot, but both hubby and I now have issues with eating....shall we call it a western diet. Processed foods, nightshade foods, dairy, meat all cause me inflammation among other things. Hubby is having digestive issues. How we got this way, we may never know, but I believe our environment is a big part of it. So, I can now make lots of things from scratch and quickly. Here are some early attempts.

Update. Since writing this, we have made rissotto, oh the creamiest rissotto, a spicy bean pasta dish, many loaves of bread as shown, vegan biscuit mix, too many cakes, smoothies, ground sugar to icing sugar, ground herbs to a fine powder and so many other things. Oh for a non-cook, it's made life in the kitchen bliss, pure bliss.

I'm a Feature Friday Girl!

2011-05-27T08:40:00.000+08:00

Hey there everyone. Testing, testing. Yep, blogger seems to be up and functioning again. Great, well, here's a quick one. I have been featured today on Two Cheeky Monkey's blog.

Links aren't working, so please visit the site below.

http://twocheekymonkeysdesigns.blogspot.com/2011/05/feature-friday-new-earth-soaps.html

Pop on over and have a bit of a read about me, and check out my special offer to readers.

Place of Inspiration!

2011-04-18T11:17:00.003+08:00

Yep, I am still in a peaceful, relaxed dream state after a couple of nights away down south. This photo is the view from our front balcony, a holiday house we stayed in around the corner from our block and future home-site.

We enjoyed being so close to our block, so we could watch the sun's movements throughout the day. This will help us design the ultimate solar passive retreat. We met with a 'Solar passive Draughtsman' as he calls himself, and so rightly too. His designs are magnificent, utilising every moment of the suns productive rays to their full potential. Our future home will have as little impact as possible with it's celestory windows, solar panels, rainwater tanks, greywater recycling system etc. I can't wait!

The Goodie Bags Ready to Go!

2011-04-05T08:17:00.000+08:00

He it is folks. This is what the goodie bags, (well boxes to be precise) looked like before they left the home of their creator - me!

See the three little tubs? They are samples of my Nourishing Face Mask, Lime and Patchouli Sugar Body Scrub and my brand new Silky Moisture Lotion, (yet to be released).

It took quite some time to individually wrap all these soaps. Not all are in the shot either!

I just felt the need to take a screenshot of my new listing. It helped me launch my new shopping cart directly from my website. It was a proud moment.

Oh What A Mess!

2011-04-01T15:17:00.000+08:00

Wah! How did this happen??? This is my workroom, after much neglect, as ideas flow, cleaning up after myself just hasn't happened. This is a fine example of how not to operate. My lab, another room entirely must remain completely clean for obvious reasons, health and safety being the main ones. Oh I must get this under control!!!

Please share any sorting tips you may have. I must sort this once and for all.

Big Almighty Sale - Goodie Bag Offer!

2011-03-25T07:04:00.003+08:00

Sale time folks!

It's been a busy summer and I spent much of it in my day job. I didn't get to attend many of those big annual fairs and markets I usually frequent so I have stacks and stacks and stacks of soap available right now.

With cooler weather just around the corner, being my favourite and most pleasant soapmaking time of the year coming up, it's time to make way for more creating. I need my work space back!

I have the biggest offer yet for you. I have arranged a huge 'Goodie Bag' deal with a mighty 1 kilogram of soap, (thats at least 8 full size bars) plus extra goodies I can fit in, such as samples of Sugar Body Scrub and my new, soon to be released Body Moisturiser.

I have been working on a moisturiser formula that is as natural as possible, free from parabens, synthetics, petrochemicals, formaldehyde, and other nasties. (Yes there is formaldehyde in many everyday things). I would love for you to be the first to try it out.

Now here's the biggest surprise. You get all of this for just $37.50!

It's available to all of my blog subscribers, facebook followers, and Dust Team members living in Australia only. The sale will continue until I have my workspace back.

You can tell me which soaps you prefer and I will do my utmost to supply you with your favoured choices.

Just one more thing. I would like to publicly thank Jess of Epheriell for her review on the free shopping cart ecwid which I now have, and love, (as much as one can love a shopping cart). Thank you.

Just click on 'Goodie Bag' to be taken to this amazing deal.

And don't forget to let me know your preferred soaps.;)

Oh What Fun!

2011-03-22T13:20:00.001+08:00

Ok, ok my boss no longer needs to beg me. I have finally formulated, after what seemed like endless research, a moisturising cream that is completely free of anything with any known health risks. It will be ready to sell real soon.

Many mass produced items on the store shelves have cheap filler ingredients, many being by-products from the processing of other ingredients. Short term you may not have any adverse effects from these questionable ingredients. Or you may develop eczema, dermatitis, rashes, sore scalp etc. Long term, there have been studies that prove their contribution to many illnesses, cancer just being one of them. Parabens for example have been found in a number of breast cancer tumors.

So, without further ado, my moisturiser!

I'm really chuffed. It is silky, shiny, thick, rich and soaks in well.

Keep an eye out for a special "Goodie Bag" special deal coming your way very soon which will include a sample of this, my moisturiser I am so proud and happy with.

My Sweetest Friend

2011-03-20T10:04:00.001+08:00

For those of you who don't know yet, my hubby and I recently bought a block of land on the south coast of WA. Not sure yet when we will be living there, but at least we have our little patch. The location is magnificent. It is on the northern slope of a beautiful hillside, which is mostly covered in Karri forest. Many homes are quaint cottages clinging to the slopes, some look like tree houses. In fact, right on the top of the hill is a 4 story 1 bedroom handcrafted wooden cottage.

Our block is cleared, but I plan to re-establish some of the original forest-like bushland around our future solar design home.

That big pine tree is gone now, thankfully. It was very old and messy. There is one more to come down on the left fenceline, then we will have a clean slate to work with.

I called in to work yesterday to find a large envelope in my in-tray. This is what my beautiful friend Fiona sent me. A bag with soil in it from our block. Fiona got a chance to visit our block first. Oh I laughed so hard I cried a little. It is the most lush soil I have seen in many years. Here in Bunbury, we have sandy, nutrient poor soil and no matter what you throw at it, it just never seems to improve. i am certainly looking forward to growing vege's in this soil and overlooking a healthy native garden from my purpose built studio.

How Important is Organic to You?

2011-02-28T09:00:00.000+08:00

With all the research I am doing lately, the question of the use of organic ingredients comes up again and again. Organic products are becoming more and more prevalent in our everyday lives these days, which is just fabulous. But how much is enough to make a difference to ours lives?

My day job revolves around natural health, assisting people heal their bodies from all sorts of illness's. The healing of many problems can be supported through nutrition, and organic foods are a big part of this. I have been learning about therapeutic extracts such as papaya, green tea, nettle etc. I have worked in natural health since 1996 and I have seen what amazing things plant extracts can do for the body both inside and out.

My question to you today, is just how important are organics to you? Would you buy skincare because it's organic and be happy to pay more for the product? Or because my products are all natural, with my ingredients coming from quality sustainable sources enough to make you choose a New Earth Soap product already?

So, I would be grateful if you could help me with your thoughts and ideas on the organic issue and tell me if it's important to you - or not!

I'm on a Roll with Treasuries!

2011-02-09T16:51:00.003+08:00

...and here's another. I really like the earthiness of this one! It was created by Sparrowsalvage. (www.etsy.com/shop/sparrowsalvage)

Todays Treasury Inclusion

2011-02-08T16:17:00.001+08:00

Oh this is a pretty funky treasury to be included in. Only days away to valentines. Maybe there is something here for you and your partner!

Recipe - Natural Hair Detangler

2011-02-01T11:50:00.000+08:00

Hi everyone.

I realised recently that I have been gathering many little snippets of information and knowledge that I can easily share with you right here on my blog. These are things like simple recipes for skin and hair care, ideas for cleaning around your home chemical free and low cost, all sorts of goodies.

In the early days of the New Earth Soaps blog, I shared this simple, low cost recipe for laundry liquid and I am still using it today.

So, here's today's easy recipe:

Hair Detangler

100ml distilled water

1 tsp aloe vera gel

2 drops vegetable glycerin

2 drops of favourite essential oil

5 drops grapefruit seed extract

All of these ingredients can be purchased at your supermarket, chemist or health shop. Just pop them in to a spray bottle and shake.

My hair, no matter what I do is a bit dry and tangley on the ends. I am due a haircut though but this simple, low cost, chemical free formula is working a treat.

Clarity and Focus

2011-01-30T09:52:00.001+08:00

Happy Sunday all!

As on most days, today I have many a creative idea floating around my head, but nothing is coming to fruition right now. I am one who prefers to see things through to the end, so, I had to fight through the fog for a moment to realise, the answer is in my workroom. Rosemary and Peppermint are two essential oils extremely helpful in 'fighting the fog.'

So now, I have a little bowl next to the computer with just a couple of drops of each oil in it, fresh air flowing through the room, and the brain fog is starting to clear. I added just a drop of lemon too, to make the scent more pleasing and because lemon helps fatigue too.

See? It worked. It's only a small blog post, but if it wasn't for the oils, I wouldn't of even achieved this one thing. Mother nature is a wonderful thing, providing us with such useful tools.

But this is just one tool to help with clarity and focus. I am sure there are many ways to get your mind back on the job. Do you have a favourite? I'd love it if you share it with me.

Treasury - 05/01/1011

2011-01-05T06:10:00.000+08:00

Today I have been featured in a treasury by CNJceramics

Love the earthiness of the selection.

Groovy Tuesday! 04/01/11

2011-01-04T11:17:00.001+08:00

What inspires me today?

Well, anything that makes me see the good things in a summers day. It is hot right now, and I am awaiting air conditioner repairs so I need to find the good in a hot summers day.

Here are a few beautiful things that help me enjoy the warmer days.....

What's not to love about this delightful artwork from Little Mo and Friends

Fresh and sweet, these from mnhince are perfect for keeping your hair pinned back on a warm day

Going outdoors? This is ideal from Rainbow Revolution

Oh wow, this just gorgeous. Wear this everytime you have on a sleeveless top all summer long, by FullSpiral

I hope you like my groovy tuesday selection this week.

Mad Manic Soapy Sale!

2010-11-12T14:25:00.001+08:00

To all lovers of natural handmade soaps out there, welcome to my first ever sale!

At last, my first sale is currently up and running. Go to my Big Cartel store and when you enter this unique code, "34SA5K" at the checkout, you will recieve 15% off your order.

So, if you wish to stock up for yourself or purchase a few stocking stuffers, take advantage of my 15% off sale. The sale will continue until stock is reduced enough that I can once again open my workroom door!

More facebook Fans = Big Soapy Sale!!!

2010-11-10T08:07:00.001+08:00

Ok people! This is what I plan to do, and it's really simple. Help me increase my facebook fanbase and I will have a great big soapy sale in my Big Cartel store. I have a magic number in mind, and I will start the sale when I reach this number. Only I know it, so lets begin!

http://www.facebook.com/newearthsoaps

So please, blog, tweet, facebook, shoutout, whatever you want to do, and when we get to that magic number, I will start a big big sale! Let me know in comments that you have helped push that number up, and if you purchase anything during my sale, there will be a little something extra in there just for you! Thanks everyone!

How Do You Display Your Business Cards?

2010-11-08T10:00:00.002+08:00

I am always trying to think up new ideas, one line of thought is for market display ideas. I noticed my moo business cards, as lovely and satiny as they are, can be difficult to pick up just one at a time when they are all neatly tucked into a standard business card holder. So, here's a fun way of displaying them, all conveniently separated so just one can be picked up at a time.

They are sitting in a little tub of beach sand. If you try this, just make sure the sand is thoroughly dry. Do you have any different and interesting market display ideas to share? I would love to hear about them.

Bespoke!

2010-11-03T07:08:00.000+08:00

Yay! It's arrived over here in WA. I can't wait till my work is done today and I can sit, relax and have a good read. It looks fabulous and well presented. The stories look like they will be a really good read. I am looking forward to it.

Well done Jess!

Bunbury Grammar School Monster Fair

2010-10-19T08:57:00.001+08:00

My first for the season, one of the best local markets was held on sunday. It turned out a pretty good day. I think numbers might have been down a little but it is always a good one as the quality is high and the friendship amongst stallholders strong.

Joining me on the day was Deb from Unique Dichroic

and Leonie of Purple Fairy Lady

Look how excited Leonie is to be photographed!

I was really pleased with the way my stall looked too. There was a full range to choose from and I wasn't asked once all day if I do something that I don't! I like that!

Groovy Tuesday!

2010-09-28T16:38:00.000+08:00

Recently I had the pleasure of spending a glorious seven nights on the south coast of Western Australia. It's my most favourite place in the whole wide world.....so far.

On day two of my trip, I got to catch up with two local dusters and fellow etsian friends Del of DELiciousDesignz and Samara of Maddabling. We had the most amazing lunch at this funky little place called Vancouver Art Cafe (we are so doing that on a regular basis when I move there girls). I delivered their soapy orders and I bought this AMAZING little hat from Del. I am in love. Isn't it the grooviest?

It's especially ideal right now because I am busy getting ready for the Grammar School Monster Fair and it keeps all my wispy hair out the way while I make perfumes, lip balms, etc ready for the big day. Besides, i just love wearing it. Thanks Del, i love it. Have I said that already? :D

Is Your Computer Secure?

2010-09-26T09:25:00.000+08:00

Hi everyone! I've missed you. It's been so long since I have been able to post anything here. It's been so long since I had the freedom to do as I please on the computer at all. We had a virus. A big one. The biggest we have ever seen.

My hubby is diligent with internet security, and we thought we had it all covered, but we didn't. It was a virus that took over your virus scanner. Clever hey? So, your virus scanner, when it started after the computer switched on, detected that itself had a virus, and quarantined itself. Now that's smart.

So, please, don't be complacent and think you are safe from all the bad things out there, because you are not. We, as artist's and craftspeople all have paypal accounts, we use internet banking, buy things online ourselves, so a little time spent updating your security and virus scanners is going to be worth it.

Stay cyber safe my friends.

Sweet Sweet Flowers

2010-09-07T09:32:00.000+08:00

At last! A new release, a new soap! One of my new creations is in store now. I call it Sweet Sweet Flowers because it really smells sweet as the flowers of springtime.

The complex blend of floral notes Lavender, Rose Geranium and Ylang Ylang give the blend it's flowery sweetness, then the Peru of Balsam adds the vanilla tones. Overall, the blend reminds me of Nannas garden in the springtime. It was always full of colourful blooms.

The soap is a blend of hydrating and nourishing oils, including coconut and castor for their creamy, moisturizing goodness and of course my favourite local olive oil I have supplied by a producer not far from home. Kaolin and pastel pink clays are added too for their skin softening properties too.

This soap is a lovely start to a fresh spring day!

Look What I Bought!!!

2010-09-04T08:21:00.002+08:00

Oh my gosh! Oh my gosh! I actually have a copy. I love it, love it, love it!

This book contains so much inspiring information and beautiful pictures my imagination is going in to overdrive. I am only up to page 13 and have already had to stop, tear myself away and scramble to find something that can be used as a journal. The ideas that have been wedged in to my muddled imagination are actually coming together. The words of Kelly Rae have hit me flying and now maybe, just maybe, the yummy paints I bought with a christmas 2009 voucher will finally be cracked open.

"What in your life is calling you? When all the noise is silenced, the meetings adjourned, the lists laid aside.....what still pulls on your soul?

This quote sits at the top of page 11 and boy, did it strike a chord with me! Thankfully, it helped that I was comfortably sitting in our 4WD overlooking an amazing rugged windswept beach when i read this. The clouds were rolling in, the wrens were taking cover. I was surrounded by an untouched paradise.

If you get a chance to read this book, do so, or at least, check out Kelly Rae's blog - http://kellyraeroberts.blogspot.com/

Do you have a favourite source of inspiration? A book? A friend? An artist? I would love to hear about it. Please do share with us.

Who knows what inspiration lies dormant inside you. x

Have I Told You About My Big Cartel Store Yet?

2010-08-25T11:40:00.000+08:00

I haven't? It's been just over a month already! It's flown by since I finally got it together and signed New Earth Soaps up with Big Cartel. How easy is it to manage too! I am impressed with their simple design, the ability to customise, I just love it. Shopping is a breeze too. Such a simple, easy to navigate system for the customer is one of the main reasons why I decided to go with Big Cartel.

The best news is, you can now shop in Australian dollars. Prices compared to etsy will always be a few cents lower. I keep an eye on the exchange rate to keep my etsy pricing in check.

Also, you can hit the facebook 'like' button at the bottom of my page of listings.

Too easy hey?

New Earth Soaps uses Certified Organic Palm Oil!

2010-08-18T06:39:00.001+08:00

Palm oil has been a contentious issue for some time. The illegal deforestation (that continues today), destroying the habitat of many animals, including the orangutan has been in the public eye alot lately. But please read information about palm oil carefully. Many people quickly assume that we should cease using all palm oil. That is incorrect. The information states we should cease using unsustainable palm oil. There's a big difference.

But there are company's out there turning this situation around by creating a sustainable supply of palm oil. One company has gone one step better than that and have created certified organic palm oil. The one I have selected is certified: Australian Certified Organic (ACO) and United States Dept. of Agriculture (USDA)

Of course, it costs more, alot more, but it's worth it. Palm oil is a hard oil, creates a beautiful lather and creates a soap that lasts and lasts. It is also 'expeller pressed.' This process is best explained in the following exerpt from http://www.wisegeek.com/.

"Expeller pressed oil is oil extracted from nuts or seeds by crushing them. This is different than many types of oil extraction methods. Many companies first make expeller pressed oil and then treat the oil with chemicals like Hexane to extract the remaining oil from the source. Usually expeller pressed oil only can get about 66% of the oil from the nuts or seeds, so yield of oil is lower."

The qualities that palm oil bring to a soap cannot be replaced or simply substituted. It stands alone with what it brings to the recipe. So I for one am glad to support a company producing certified organic palm oil.

The Best and Easiest Muffin Recipe Ever!

2010-08-09T17:45:00.000+08:00

Ok, this is the easiest and most fail-safe muffin recipe I have ever used. I have tried others. Some tried to tempt me away with their fancy ingredients, their seductive blends of oils, flours etc, but I always come back to this little beauty. I have had this torn out page since I don't know when, but I recall crop tops, perms and flouro were around! :)

Cream 125 grams butter with 125 grams brown sugar, then stir in 2 eggs. Sift in 250 grams self raising flour and a sprinkle of nutmeg. Mix in 125 mls milk and three quarters cup cooked mashed pumpkin. Spoon into muffin tray or patty pans and bake in 200c oven till golden.

Thats it. So easy, and yes, you can use spelt flour or kamut (my favourite although hard to find) is lovely too, for that extra nutrition. Just don't forget the baking powder to make the flour self raising, and it needs just a little extra than normal. And don't over stir. Sometimes I change it to suit, like my favourite banana choc chip version. Yummmm. Just halve the sugar when you change it to banana choc chip or they will be too sweet.

This recipe has been used dozens of times during every winter since ever and they take barely 15 mins to make. Eat up and enjoy!

Where To Next?

2010-08-08T09:07:00.001+08:00

I have started off on a bit of a journey this morning, exploring the inner-most depths for my reasons for pursuing a crafty business. Don't get me wrong, I am not in any doubt, just ready to move forward. I found some sites discussing some great subjects. The biggest thought being -

Do You Want to Make Money or Create?

This blog post really got me thinking about the details of my business. What do I need to do to move from 'glorified hobby' status to a thriving energetic business I can be proud of. Currently, I feel I sit somewhere in between - still a little embarrassed when visiting my accountant that I haven't grown as much as I promised myself I would, but also proud in what I have achieved so far given that I work elsewhere part-time and have health issues to keep under control. (Lets not go there, it's boring.)

I really do create what I feel everyone the world over should be using on their skin. It's all about being gentle on the earth and gentle on yourself too, for me. There is no need to apply toxins to your skin, and believe me, they are in most things sold commercially and they are entering your bloodstream. There is just no way to sugar coat it folks.

But what do you, the customer really want? Is it all about the fact that my products are good for your skin and ultimately for your health? Or are there other reasons? Maybe you just simply like the silky feeling handmade soaps give your skin, and that's it. Do you wish I did scents like apple, chocolate and watermelon or should I stick to my guns and stay true to my original (completely and utterly natural ingredient) plan?

How do these questions and others from this posting by Meredith of www.smallerbox.net apply to your crafty business?

"Mind and Body " liftout in todays West Australian (27/07/2010)

2010-07-27T11:33:00.002+08:00

How exciting. Out of the blue, I was contacted by a lovely person from the West Australian newspaper and asked to submit a couple of photos of my soaps for an article on WA soapmakers. After staring at the email for about 10 minutes in complete numbness, I got to work in getting images ready. This is the fantastic result. I am very happy to be included. Doesn't it look great?

Lets hope it gets my business some good positive exposure because I am ready for a busy spring and summer season.
Doesn't it look fun and colourful, with other soapmakers that do completely different looking work. Fish in a bag? Such fun. Great work "Mind and Body" team!

Essential Oil Profile - Lemongrass

2010-07-26T10:26:00.003+08:00

Profiles on the essential oils used in my products I feel are important. Although the quantities used in soaps aren't high enough to have huge effects on your health or emotion, I believe it is still important to know exactly what you are putting on to your skin. Studies have shown that essential oils applied to the skin (please, not directly and undiluted) take only 4 minutes to show up in your blood. Therefore, they are going to have some effect on your mind, body and spirit.

Lemongrass essential oil properties create a sense of emotional well-being, an important attribute to have in this fast-paced world. The light citrusy scent is a great relaxing agent and acts as a type of tranquilizer tamping down on stress, anxiety and even depression. A massage using lemongrass essential oil can be very therapeutic and calming for a tired body with aching muscles.

It is a great overall tonic for the body and it boosts the parasympathetic nervous system, which is a boon when recovering from illness, as it also stimulates glandular secretions.

It is useful with respiratory infections such as sore throats, laryngitis and fever and helps prevent spreading of infectious diseases. It is helpful with colitis, indigestion and gastro-enteritis.

Lemongrass oil helps tone the muscles and tissue, relieves muscle pains by making the muscle more supple. It helps with correcting poor circulation and as an insect repellant. It helps to keep pets clean of fleas, ticks and lice.

It also is used for clearing up oily skin and acne, as well as athlete's foot. It alleviates excessive perspiration.

A simply delightful cleansing scent, it is currently available in -

Fresh and Floral Soap

Super Fruity Soap

There will be plenty more essential oils profiles to come. Which would you like to know more about?

Citrus Vanilla Bean

2010-07-25T11:55:00.001+08:00

I love this one! OK, I know, I have lots of favourites, but I really, really love this one. I love vanilla so much, but the pure essential oil is way too expensive to be splashing around in soaps (though I have just bought some for perfumes etc) so I have been working on formulas to get that comforting warm vanilla scent through other essential oils. Well, finally.....drum roll please.....Citrus Vanilla Bean is here!

It is a blend of Lemon, Lavender and a little Benzoin which is the dominant scent, smelling just like the sweetest vanilla. I also added the millions of tiny seeds from inside some beautiful organic vanilla pods and a thin layer of nourishing black clay.

Benzoin has the added bonus of having a great calming and uplifting effect on the mind and helps to comfort the sad and lonely, while boosting circulation and easing respiratory disorders. At the same time it boosts the skin's elasticity, while calming redness, itchiness and irritation.

It is nearly ready for sale. It will be listed in just over a weeks time on both my Australian and Worldwide stores.

I Can Still Sew!

2010-07-18T09:22:00.003+08:00

A week or so ago, Jess from Epheriell asked a question of us all on facebook, "What's the one craft that - if money and time weren't an issue - you would really love to learn??

My response was "I've had to think hard, so many. I've done photography for yrs, wanna take it further into mixed media, painting. Also make my own clothes coz I hate shopping & wanna look like me, not everyone else. :)"

Well, I can sort of wear it, but this is what resulted from the inspiration of that question - a market apron. I used leftover pieces of fabric from other projects, so nothing new was needed, and even better, no money needed to be spent. I even found some kinex tubular toy magnets kicking around the shed so I used them in the seams of the pockets, so they snap back when closing. It's fully lined too, so there is that soft suede feel inside the pockets.

I am really pleased with the results. It took some energy, because it has been some time since I used the sewing machine. (Respect to all those out there that sew). No longer will it take me just that bit too long to find that twenty cent coin in the depths of the deep and dark (and incredibly cumbersome) bumbag. I love it!

New Sunday Topic - What's Holding You Back?

2010-07-11T10:06:00.001+08:00

We are not far into the new financial year, and like every other year at this time, I am thinking about what I can do to improve my business. Goal setting is important to me but it often gets forgotten as I get bogged down with working in the business, and not on the business. I know, it's hard, but we need to set aside some time, preferably each week, to make sure we are on track to where we want to go.

Working in the business is what you do each and every day. You get up, go to your studio, and you make more stock, order more supplies, list more stuff for sale and cross fingers you sell enough. Working on your business is the other side of things. You plan goals, set sales targets, design a plan to help you get where you want to go.

I have discovered this blog and I am still wading through it, but it's very interesting. Also, in an attempt to save money, and improve my bookkeeping I have discovered this free software. It looks good, maybe a little more complex than I need but I am learning. It only costs if you need to ask the owners for help, so if you think you can teach yourself, it's free! Reviews on the software are good too.

So, my goals as they stand now are:
- learn to use my new software
- actually use my new software and not let reciepts pile up
- watch my spending (there is always an exciting new ingredient to try)
- invent and add at least one new item to my range each and every month

So, what I am asking today is what steps are you taking to work on your creative business this year? Tell me in as much or as little detail as you wish, the small goals, the big ones too and we will discuss them here on sundays one by one.

Lets make this the best creative business year yet, and remember, slow and steady wins the race! Find that balance between running a business and keeping that passion of doing the art / craft you love so much.

A Little Shameless Self - Promotion!

2010-07-10T11:28:00.002+08:00

Many weeks ago, I decided to pursue two things to add to New Earth Soaps range of products. Firstly, a quality lip balm, something a bit more special than your average blend. This is the result -

The result is a lovely creamy lip balm with the added benefits of vitamin E and rosehip oil, known for it's healing properties on scar tissue, ageing skin and even burns. No wonder my lips feel so very soft. They are ready to face anything winter has to throw at it now!

Also, introducing my three long awaited perfume balms. I have formulated three completely different scents using only the best quality essential oils in a base with glorious ingredients such as shea butter and jojoba.

Love and Peace is a simple yet enticing blend of just two essential oils, Lime and Patchouli.
Lime is well known in folklore for its ability to cleanse, purify and renew the spirit and the mind. It is also said to be effective in cleansing the aura.
Emotionally, Patchouli is calming and grounding. Spiritually, Patchouli has been used alone or in blends during prayer and meditation.

Warm Spice is a comforting, uplifting, delicious blend of five citrus and spice essential oils, quite ideal for chilly winter days. The ginger and cinnamon especially will warm your soul.

Sweet Aura is a complex blend. It's a floral, sweet, delicious, delicate blend of a number of essential oils including grapefruit, lavender, ylang ylang, sandalwood and jasmine. A very sweet and feminine blend.

I do hope you will check them out as I am very proud of the results. You know when you get that good feeling in your tummy that things have gone well, well, I have that feeling now.

Karen xo

Sunday Treats - Shiny Things

2010-07-04T08:14:00.000+08:00

Todays Sunday Treats aren't edible, you can't wrap yourself in them to keep you warm, but there is something warming from the inside when you treasure a special, unique, handcrafted shiny item of jewellery, such as these crafted by three very talented craftpersons, all of whom I admire.

Silver Bubbles - Sterling Silver Earrings

by Michvanetta

Necklace. Sterling Silver. Flat circle. Wire wrapped. Modern and Minimalist

by Angelene

Necklace. Cloud. Whimsical. Sterling Silver. Handmade in Australia by Epheriell on Etsy

by Epheriell

Enjoy a sunday treat today. After all, isn't that what sunday is all about? It is for me.

Sunday Treats - Toasty Warm

2010-06-20T10:17:00.000+08:00

Oh it's going to be a beautiful day here. Yes, it's starting out a little chilly but the sun is beginning to work it's magic and soon, we will be outdoors soaking up some much needed vitamin D.

Todays 3 treats are beautiful examples of what dusters can do. I am currently in great awe of people that can knit and crochet, for every time I have a go, I invent weird looking things. My last attempt at crochet resulted in a 9 sided square! Enough said!

Bela Blue Fleck knitted wool fingerless mitts for men or women

by BoosTees

Hood/Scarf Combo, Wearable Art, OOAK Freeform Crochet - No 3

by rensfibreart

FREE SHIPPING IN AUSTRALIA - SNUGGLERS ARE FOR GROWN-UPS TOO in autumn and bright stripes

by SagoOnTuesdays

Have a lovely winters day everyone!

Sunday Treats

2010-06-13T09:46:00.010+08:00

Although the sun is shining today, perhaps for the very last time for a while, I feel I need a crackling wood burning fire to warm me through. So I have chosen todays 3 Sunday Treats in my search for feelings of warmth, security and cosiness.

Art Giclee print- beautiful amazing colours -lotus fire. First is this warm, dreamy painting by Emberatia. It would warm the atmosphere in just about any room.

SALE -COWL SWEATER RED available in xs,s,m,l,xl
You can't go wrong with this snuggly sweater from Lyptis. I think it speaks for itself.

Limited Edition Digital Print - Fire Sunset 1 - SALE ITEM
This photo has such a surreal feeling. Beautiful, by originideas.

Winter is really starting to set in now, so keep warm, and treat yourself to that something extra to make the cold easier to bare.

Sunday Treats

2010-06-07T07:50:00.001+08:00

Ok, so I am a day late, but it is a long weekend here, so it's just like another sunday!

Today I would like to share with you three more treats, to love, own and cherish. It could very well be the last super sunny weekend here, so we are clutching on to the last rays of sunshine, so here are some sunshiny things.

Summer Field - Original watercolor painting by klbaileyART

A Wave of Sunshine - Resin ring by DELiciousDesignz

Inner sunshine Lamp by Zayradesign

I love the watercolour, so innocent and fresh, the resin ring, you would want to touch it's smooth silky surface, and that lamp, what a beautiful atmosphere it would create in any room.

Happy Sunday Treat all.

Best Friends!

2010-05-27T11:32:00.004+08:00

Unfortunately the lab door is tightly shut right now until I fully recover from a virus. It's a bad one too, having made it's way towards my lungs. But there is one good thing about all this. Just look at what my beautiful friend Fiona delivered to me.

Those garlic bulbs are huge! And so potent. I made a huge pot of onion and garlic soup, made all the more special with quality ingredients given to me by a special friend.

Sunday Treats!

2010-05-23T11:38:00.001+08:00

Welcome to my first edition of "Sunday Treats."

There's nothing better than a treat to look forward to on a sunday. If for whatever reason we don't get to surround ourselves with our favourite things each and every day, at least we can make the effort on a sunday.

Here's my selection reflecting my desire to be surrounded by trees and nature.

A great print on recycled paper by Kristina of Inaluxe

The warming hues of this tree pendant by Deb of Uniquedichroic

And I love all the sweet things by Helena of Little Mo and Friends

Happy sunday all. Don't forget to treat yourself today.

Karen

Raw Foodie Sweet Treat

2010-05-21T12:21:00.000+08:00

Check out what I made. Raw chocolate treats. Yes, if you are eating raw, you still can have the sweet things too. The basic raw chocolate recipe is raw cacao butter, raw cacao powder and agave syrup. But I modified mine a bit. OK, alot!

1/2 cup raw cacao butter

1/2 cap raw cacao powder

2 tspns agave syrup

1 tblspn bee pollen

1 tblspn organic ground hemp seed

1 tspn spirulina

1 tspn maca powder

a handful of saltanas

a handful of crushed brazil nuts

Place raw cacao butter in a metal bowl, sit it over a pot of boiling water and leave to melt. Take off the heat a swiftly beat in the other ingredients. Spoon into small patty pans. Place in fridge to set.

So easy, so delicious, so good for you. I love eating RAW! :D

My New Labels are Everywhere

2010-05-17T11:20:00.001+08:00

I am really happy with my final label design. It's been some time in the making and it took a few goes. Previous attempts in the past just didn't sit right with me. This is it, for keeps, for ever. I feel it's a reflection of my personality. It shows my love of nature and my favourite colours, green and orange and many shades in between.

I have been gradually changing over all my items, banners, business cards etc and now I can say.....DONE!

Poppyseed Soap!

2010-05-01T12:49:00.001+08:00

At last! I have had the ingredients set up for this one for a week before I a chance to spend some quality time with it.

I am really happy with this blend. It is quite simple, yet clever as it is a helpful formulation which may, if you feel a headache coming on or even for those big nasty migraines, help ease the pain.

An essential oil blend of simply ginger and lavender can be a great help for headache pain. The gentle invigoration of the poppyseeds will assist with stimulation and blood flow, all great for easing pain. Also, turmeric, not only for subtle colour, but it assists with inflammation and pain relief too. It's used in natural inflammation formulas.

So, have a warm shower, breathe in the aromas, unwind and kick that headache.

Yet to cure, this soap will be available soon in my store www.newearthsoaps.etsy.com

Dust Team Craft Swap No 8

2010-04-28T16:47:00.001+08:00

For the latest craft-swap for DUST (Australian Etsy Seller Team) I was partnered with Kathy of Secretjewellz.

What a lovely surprise. I didn't receive a necklace. I recieved 2! How appropriate the designs are for me too. My nickname is Earth Girl after all. One is a strong distinctive leaf shape with a sweet hummingbird, and the other, the Tree of Life.

Thank you so much Kathy. I do hope you are enjoying your gift. Kathy blogged about my swap with her right here.

Happy Etsyversary to me!

2010-04-20T15:38:00.003+08:00

Yay! One year has past already! Can't believe it! There is so much I want to do but the calendar has clicked on over regardless.

But, to celebrate, pop over to my store anytime in the next 2 weeks, make a purchase and get free stuff. Yep, it could be a lip balm, face mask, even one of my yet unrevealed body mists. Freebies will be at least to the value of 30% or more of your purchase.

Ok, not all my range is there. I had an incredibly successful market on Easter saturday. Thats why it's going for 2 whole weeks, so keep my offer in mind and pop back a few times for more listings as they happen.

Thank you for all your support, fun and involvement in my first etsy year.

Cheers from Karen

Microdermabrasion

2010-04-16T15:15:00.000+08:00

Such a scary word isn't it? Microdermabrasion. It's a mouthtful too. It's something I have been considering for years, but as my health was not the best, the immune system didn't cope well with anything but the most basic, natural skincare. I was fearful of a stranger slathering my skin with a toxic concoction.

Well, fear no more. Thanks to My South West and Lorraines Parlour I recieved my first of 6 treatments this morning. Right now, I have to keep out of the sun for a couple of days and it feels a little strange and warm, but all is well so far. As my treatments progress, photos will be posted.

Yes, my skin has been through alot, 25 years of acne, adult chicken pox, and plain neglect because it was more important to get well and walk through the house without hanging on to the walls than worry about what I looked like. I am quite well and strong now, so let the pampering begin. Now I am off to make a simple light facial moisturiser with almond oil for my sensitive skin.

You Are Not Going To Believe It!!!

2010-03-19T08:45:00.007+08:00

I am in another treasury! I am so thrilled to be included in another collection of Aussie talent.

Another Treasury!

2010-03-17T16:01:00.004+08:00

Here I am again, featured in a lovely selection of etsy goodies. This is thanks to Stacey of Sunweeds.

I love the earthiness of this selection. It makes me feel right at home, secure and content. Well selected Stacey and thankyou!

Etsy Treasury

2010-03-09T07:08:00.004+08:00

Yay! I am in a treasury! This lovely selection is by Mel of mnhince. It's all about sweet things that will help you through a wet weekend.
Mel kindly included one of my face masks. It would be rather pleasant right now to be relaxing in front of a fire, roast in the oven, refreshing rain falling outside, and a rejuvenating mask on whilst toasting sock covered toes.

And The Winner Is.......

2010-02-19T15:04:00.004+08:00

Congratulations Nyjole!

How exciting to draw the winner of my first ever competition. I want to say a big thankyou to everyone out there that participated. You shared with me ideas for products I could develop in the future, presentation ideas, gave me valuable feedback and joined me by following my blog, facebook fanpage and twitter. Phew! You all did heaps to help me in my quest to improve and expand my business, range and of course exposure. I am most grateful to you all.

Now, I wonder who Nyjole will 'pay it forward' to and give the second face mask to? We will just have to wait and see. Thank you again to all!

Pay It Forward

2010-02-14T11:05:00.016+08:00

It's competition time! I welcome you to New Earth Soaps first ever competition. I have called it 'Pay It Forward.' At the end of this post, you shall see why.

This is what I would like for you to do -

Simply chat to me about what you would like to see more of on my blog or in my shop. You can leave a message here or email me at karen@newearthsoaps.com.au

For extra entries participate in any of the following -

a) join my blog.

b) join my facebook fanpage.

c) follow me on twitter.

d) do anything on your blog that mentions New Earth Soaps and links my blog to yours.

e) for those of you great with design skills, throw me a product presentation idea.

Then let me know what you have done by leaving a comment here.

Now, for the prize! Two face masks, yes, not one but two. Remember how I said this competition is called 'Pay It Forward?' Well, I would love for you to enjoy one yourself and give one of the face masks to a deserving fellow etsian who needs a little pampering. I will even post direct to each of you. Now, entries will be open until friday 19th feb, 12 noon here in WA. Thats 3pm for those over east of Oz.

Good Luck!

Raw Food Diet

2010-02-07T12:23:00.016+08:00

Well, I have decided to share a little about the next big step I have taken in my life. I feel it's all interrelated, all natural soaps and skincare, living chemical free, health and diet. I have become a 'raw foodie.'

On 12th Dec last year, I had a market at my most favourite place on earth Denmark, WA. It was the birthday of my husband, and Deb (Unique Dichroic) who was selling her beautiful wares as well. Next to me was Del (Delicious Designz). I knew Samara (Maddo) was popping along later too. What a great day I was having.

The very next stall to me was Ruth Bingham, a local naturopath and all round lovely person. The day was about to get even better. I was attracted to her energy, the love and kindness I could see her putting out there to anyone and everyone. I chatted to her every moment I could, and soon started asking questions about the raw food crackers she was peddling. It all made sense. Cooking our food kills the good life giving enzymes. Energy recieved from cooked foods is going to be much less than if our foods are raw. I felt this wave of emotion as I realised what I needed to do.

I began by munching on Ruths yummy raw crackers, the spicy savoury and then the sweet date. When I returned home I researched and learn't more. Changing my diet was easy. It felt natural, almost a normal way to eat. I especially love the no cooking. If you are interested yourself in introducing more raw food to your diet, just google 'raw food diet' visit rawdownunder on you tube or ask me! It's just brilliant!

Pictured is a green smoothie, made with things like sprouted legumes, like mung beans, silverbeet, kale, some fruit for sweetness like banana, mango, berries, whatever is in season. The other picture is of my 1 week old organic sunflower sprouts. I have pinched off a bit and they taste amazing. Can't wait for them to go in smoothies, in a salad or a raw cracker open sandwich! Speaking of which, theres one at the top. That was my lunch. A raw cracker from Sunbread, mooshed up avocado with garlic and lime juice, tomato and sprouted mung beans. I feel energised!

Oils - Essential versus Fragrance Oils

2010-01-31T11:33:00.007+08:00

Today, I am going to have a quick chat about the difference between essential oils and fragrance oils.

Since I started working in the natural health industry nearly 13 years ago (wow, where has that gone?) I have been shown the dangers of many things in our everyday lives that endanger our health. Sure, there are the obvious ones, petroleum, sodium laureth sulfates, colourings, flavourings, plastics, aluminiums etc but have you thought about the products you apply to your skin? The skin is the largest organ in the body and it absorbs a large amount of what we apply to it. So, if we, say, apply a cream loaded with toxins and chemicals, it will make it's way into your system, perhaps into your bloodstream, lodge in your kidneys and may never be flushed out, who knows.

So, on to fragrance oils. Fragrance oils are often chemical in nature. The chemicals are mixed to resemble popular scents and then mixed with either treated water or alcohol. Since these chemicals are man-made, they can irritate skin and cause rashes or allergic reactions in some people. Imagine these are used in your “aromatherapy” lotion, and you spread it all over your body.

Fragrance oils fall into the FDA’s “trade secret” law. This means that the fragrance oils maker does not have to let you know what the ingredients are and thus you will never know what you are putting on your skin.

Essential oils on the other hand are all plant based or essentially the oil of the plant. They all have aromatherapic and / or medicinal uses. For example, patchouli is grounding and restful, citrus oils are uplifting of the spirit, tea tree is antiseptic. They are very potent and should be used minimally and handled with care. You will not get any thereputic benefits from a manufactured fragrant oil will you?

And anyway, why would you want to use skincare scented with a potentially toxic fragrant oil called 'monkey farts.' Yep, you read right, I have seen a fragrance oil called monkey farts! Ikkkk!

Time for the Big Reveal

2010-01-21T08:56:00.008+08:00

Greetings earthlings. I have made a return to the civilised world as we know it and will be rejoining the human race. After much toil in the 'lab of creation', I am ready to reveal what I have been up to.

After much experimentation and a whole lot of fun, the first new product to reveal is my range of all natural clay masks. There are a huge five types in the range - all skin types, sensitive, nourishing, mature / stressed and oily / blemished.

These clay mask blends are simple to use, you only take out the little that you need, and as they are delivered to you in powder form and not mixed in a wet slurry, there is no need for preservatives, stabilisers, anti-fungal type ingredients etc. Now, unless they are derived from natural sources, we don't really want our skin absorbing those kind of things do we?

Hows the funky packaging? I wanted to keep it to a minimum, (I have seen fancy jars of similar product for big dollars) and coincidently, they are going to be super cheap to post! A bit of basic origami, and we have a neat and tidy package ready to send or to give someone as a sweet little gift. I am off to the beautiful south coast of WA yet again for the weekend for the Denmark Markets so i will be listing my new clay masks on etsy straight after my return.

Christmas Morning!

2009-12-25T09:12:00.005+08:00

It's the morning of christmas. It's quiet in the street. All the children must be playing around their christmas trees. It's quiet here too. Soon, we will be off to visit the rellies, sit around, grow a little plumper, and enjoy some quality time with them.

I hope you are all enjoying the day.

Merry Christmas everyone!

Grammar School Monster Fair!

2009-10-20T11:32:00.008+08:00

What a day! It was my best ever market yet! Setup went smoothly, the students helped out, and I had a great space. Many friends, new and old come along and supported me, and I had the best soap sales yet! Woohoo!

I got a few snaps in, but I was a bit busy talking, snapping, hugging, squealing with great delight to see an old school friend etc etc, but they'll do ;)

I think I have enough stock left for the next market. Better go and count..... ;))

ETSY ETSY ETSY - OI OI OI

2009-10-16T08:31:00.003+08:00

One last major market for a while happens here in Bunbury WA on Sunday. See below for details on the Grammar School Monster Fair. It's the biggest in the area and I like it because it's inside and out of the wind, rain and all other elements that often effect a market.

Then I am excited to say, I will endeavour to spend more time on Etsy. I have many more varieties of soap then I am showing you, but with the markets in full swing, 2 of our 4 staff members off sick, holidays afoot for the boss, it's been mad round here.

Starting Monday, my etsy store will get fuller and fuller till every variety of soap I have invented is listed and ready to pamper your skin.

* Just a quick note. I won't be doing any markets throughout November. My husband is training for a National Archery Shoot to be held in Perth on Nov 29th. He needs lots of support and I want to help with his confidence. Who knows, if he gets to shoot alongside one of the Olympic champions in the playoff, I might be his runner in the Olympics 2012!!! One can only hope and try ones best.

Monster Craft Fair and Open Day

2009-09-21T16:46:00.004+08:00

I know most of you won't be anywhere near Bunbury WA but I had to share this with all that will look. Every year we have a huge day at the Bunbury Cathedral Grammar School which is a combination of open day for prospective students and the best market in the town all year.

Because it's a 'monster' fair, of course there has to be a monster every year on the invitations, and here is this years. Isn't he cute? I just adore the cupcake!

GET BLOGGING with new herbal soother soap!

2009-09-20T06:57:00.005+08:00

Hi all! It's been too long, but here I am, back again. Thanks to a regular customer (you know who you are) I am spurred on to get things cranking here once again.

Lets start simple shall we? A new soap I have formulated perhaps. Here is one that is quite simple yet I am proud of - Herbal Soother. It is a nice creamy base formula to keep skin well hydrated. Great for most skins, but especially those that are sensitive or prone to breakouts.

There is soybean oil for it's vitamin E and the fact that it's nice and light and well absorbed into the skin leaving it feeling silky smooth.

There is castor oil which acts as a protective barrier on your skin that will protect against harsh environmental conditions.

There is shea butter which is hailed for its protecting and emollient properties. It also protects the skin from UV rays and as a treatment for minor skin wounds and irritations.

Then there are the herbs. I have steeped the water in chamomile flowers which applied topically it can assist in wound healing and reduce swelling.

Then, also in the brew are a smattering of other herbs such as meadowsweet, alfalfa, white willow for their antinflammatory properties, making it quite a healthy formulation.

So, if you have skin prone to breakouts, irritations or just want a soap that has lots of good soothing herbs in it (coincidentally, most of these herbs ar great for achey joints too), try my new Herbal Soother.

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=31218331

Spring and Summer Markets

2009-08-14T16:02:00.006+08:00

It's time again, to fill out market application forms. It's time to predict the future to whether I can be there, here, somewhere else, near and far away! Will I have the energy to do my favourite Cowaramup Xmas Fair on a saturday then another locally on the sunday?
YEAH! GO ON THEN!
I'm gonna do the lot! Yep, as many as I can fit in this season. So, heres my calendar for some major ones so far.
Sept 6th - Allanson School Fair
Oct 3rd - Stirling St Market
Oct 10th - Dardanup Bull and Barrel
Oct 18th - Grammar School Monster Fair
Nov 7th - Stirling St Market
Nov 21st - Cowaramup Xmas Fair
Nov 22nd - Stirling St Xmas Fair
Dec 12th - Denmark Markets

Well, thats so far. There are a couple more big ones to confirm, and a smattering of little ones too but I shall get them sorted soon. It's just good to get it out there, in a big list to say 'hey, look at what I have committed to. I am going to do all these, and more.' It has really helped me get my head around how much I am up for. Now, I must go make more soap, and more soap, and more.....

You will never guess what happened!

2009-07-29T09:51:00.003+08:00

A funny story, to tell, I have! Over our big weekend, me at the MOTL market on the saturday and Roger at an indoor archery shoot on the sunday, (to which he come seven in Australia btw), getting ready for the weekend consisted of throwing lots of stuff in the car and hoping we had enough of what we needed. There was no time for checking details.

You are not going to believe what was missing from the toiletries! Soap and shampoo!!!

I had to send Roger out to the car to grab some soap as I was nearly undressed ready for a shower, and in the meantime, discovered that the shampoo was missing as well! Disaster! My hair was already was looking like a birdsnest. What was I to do? Well, what else but lather up some soap, wash it into the scalp and hope. Well, my hair hasn't been this soft in years! It's 4 days later, and I am still washing my hair with soap. Hey, why not? It's working! Some of the best things in history have been discovered purely by accident.

Made on the Left Market - July 25th 2009

2009-07-28T11:46:00.009+08:00

Well, it's done and dusted. It's over. Done for now. The Made on the Left market at Hyde Park Hotel was a huge success. The atmosphere was great. The company surrounding me was a joy and the coffee was strong and smooth. What more could one ask for. Oh yeah, sales. I did very well thankyou! Best takings yet since starting my soapmaking business. Even though I was very much right in the big, scary city, I felt at home surrounded by like-minded people. It was a joy to be there. I must say a special thankyou to the MOTL team who put it all together, do all the behind the scenes work. I know there is much to do. I do hope to be there next time.

Christmas in July treasury

2009-07-15T17:34:00.005+08:00

If you don't already know, July 25th and 26th, the members of Australian dustteam will be having a great celebration of art, craft and all that is wonderful with the world! Check out what the dust team have to offer over that weekend.

Here are just a few fine examples to begin the temptation.

I have yet to confirm what I am up to, but it will be good. I like freebies, giving extras with purchases, so that may be what I do.

Exhibition Banner

2009-07-08T10:09:00.006+08:00

I have been wanting to project a more professional image at my markets and have been working on design ideas for an Exhibition Banner. Thanks to Angelene on etsy dust chat mentioning Vistaprint I now have on their way a 1.8 metre vinyl banner, 500 business cards, a t-shirt and notepad all with this artwork printed on.

I do hope everyone likes it. As long as it catches the eye, people see something positive in the image and want to come over and take a look at my wares. Perhaps people will stop thinking they are slices of cake now!

I like the photography and I feel it projects the right image, so, it will be doing it's job! Imagine for me it hanging up against a rich sky blue velvet. It's gotta get attention!

Something Amazing Happened!

2009-06-30T08:26:00.004+08:00

During my soapmaking 'blitz' over the weekend, I invented a new formula; one for the guys, perhaps. It has a curious combination of essential oils, the most dominant one being Aniseed Myrtle. I have been saving this for a special mix, as the price on this oil has gone through the roof lately and I am not sure if I can afford to buy any more soon.

To compliment the liquorice / aniseed aroma, I added organic Australian Black Clay, for it's conditioning and nourishing properties. I blended it through the whole batch of soap, then added a little more to the final few tablespoons and swirled it through the top. During the next few hours, something amazing happened. White swirls started appearing on the surface. This added to the pattern. I am not sure how or why this happened but doesn't it look great?

So, the photo on the left is one hour after pouring, and the one on the right is 3 hours after pouring. Not quite sure how this happened or why, but I am gonna try to find out! I may know more soon when I cut into it, but anyway, I like it, it's pretty. Just hope I can make it happen again!

Made on the Left

2009-06-26T08:04:00.007+08:00

Yay, I have been accepted to attend the next MOTL (Made on the Left) market at the Hyde Park Hotel in Perth WA. This little country bumpkin is going to have her first ever market in the big city. I am so excited, but I had better get busy as I have much to do before the big day, which btw is over the weekend of July 25th and 26th. There will be different artists and crafters each day. I have a place on the saturday! Can't wait! If you are in the Perth area, mark it in your diaries and come and say hi. Even better, come for the opportunity to see the talent in our state and purchase something very special and unique.

For more information, visit http://www.madeontheleft.com/

Lovely Blog Award

2009-06-21T10:38:00.005+08:00

Well, I do feel special. I have been nominated a "Lovely Blog Award." Feeling that my blog is still fresh and new, I feel inspired and very happy. Thank you Stacey of http://www.sunweeds.blogspot.com/

The guidelines for accepting the award are:
1) Add the logo to your blog
2) Link to the person from whom you received this award
3) Nominate 7 or more blogs
4) Leave a message on their blog – letting them know that they are ‘One Lovely Blog’

My 7 nominees are:

solheart

rabbitandtheduck

Koko Vanilla Designs

Scarlette Rose Fairy

Artnomadix Wearable Art

Pocket Carnival

Flower Press

Pass it on!!!

In the Bath!

2009-06-15T10:33:00.003+08:00

Just further to my rantings about my "Shea Butter Bars," I had a nice long soak in the bath the other night, and took one of these little treats with. I fully expected for the bar to melt into the bath water on impact, and for me to just get the benefit from it soaking into my skin whilst lying there enjoying the peace. But it didn't do that at all!

I dropped it in, the first thing I observe, it floated! Hmmm, different! Next thing, it stayed solid! OK, this is not what I pictured happening. So, I lay back, relaxed for a few minutes, hit it about the bath for a while, then picked it up. It had softened enough to rub easily into my skin, so I rubbed it in all over. It was not greasy or sticky. It felt quite the treat. Shortly after, it was bedtime. Next morning, I awoke to soft, hydrated, smooth skin. Nice!

FREEBIES!!!

2009-06-10T16:36:00.010+08:00

When I hit 20 sales, I thought to myself, hmmmm, bout time I lost the "Opening Sale" thing going on in my etsy store. So I took away all the freebies. No more simple olive oil soaps free with any purchase. Oh my, the store looked sad, plain, ordinary, like I didn't really care. You know the one, when you walk into a bricks and mortar store and something just doesn't feel right? The atmosphere is heavy. The person behind the counter can't even be bothered to lift their head to acknowledge you. Thats the feeling I had when looking at my now lifeless store.

No! This isn't good enough! Something had to be done and quick!

Shea Butter Bars are luscious little parcels of moisture giving goodness for your skin. Great for rubbing in to dry areas like hands and feet before bed, a little around the nails to help the cuticles or even for complete all over luxury, drop it into a nice hot bath before bedtime. Aaah, the lavender and juniper oils, shea butter, olive and jojoba oils will soak right in.

Purchase any item in my store and I will be throwing in one of these little guys for free! Obviously, if you purchase more, you'll get more of these little freebies!

Aaaahhh, that feels better. That should lift the spirits in my store!

Hi Honey I'm Home!

2009-06-06T10:46:00.004+08:00

Well, I am back from our week of living large in Bali, now back to the real world. It's a fun real world though when you get to make soap. I am starting to invent more original formulations, so look out for new and interesting blends.

Here's just one picture of our trip, to ensure not to bore you with details of my holiday.

Now, back to the real world and lots and lots of soap. Here goes.....

Vacation Mode

2009-05-24T13:10:00.006+08:00

Hi All! Just letting you all know that I am about to take off for a week. We, my husband and I are treating ourselves to 7 nights in Bali, in a beachfront hotel with amazing food, swimming pools, and an extras package with room upgrade, cocktails, fruit, flowers, coffee and cake, you name it. It's going to be a little bit of luxury and shear indulgence.
Ooooh, I can't wait for the massages and facials.
So, I shall blog all about it on our return.
Take care and keep well.

Yaami.com

2009-05-23T11:11:00.005+08:00

Check this out!
I stumbled upon this entry in the forums, (thats how I find most things, by just stumbling about). Damien his name is, has set up a site for etsy store owners to advertise their stores and promote new or specific items. He is offering free advertising spaces at the moment. There may be a place or two left if you hurry! Well, I am not sure if there are any space left, but since the first go is free, it's worth a shot hey!
I am very grateful to get a spot. I have not done any advertising as yet, so this is just great.
Thankyou Yaami.com

It's Ready!

2009-05-22T15:41:00.007+08:00

Yay, at last, my new soap is ready to sell, in fact, I have already sold one piece of it this morning on etsy. I am so excited as I love this formula. The notes are floral, but not too floral, just enough to feel a little feminine.
If you knew me, you'd know I am not very girly at all. My favourite clothes are cargo's and t-shirts, my favourite pastimes involve open spaces, the great outdoors, roughing it. My favourite foods are anything that is charred on the cob or open fire. Yep, I am far from girly.

But this soap blend contains oils great for the dry or mature skin, fantastic now that the cold winds are howling, drying our complexions out. The essential oils are rose geranium and chamomile, both known for their uses in hormonal and menopausal herbal remedies. Yes, they are just in soap, but it all helps hey? Chamomile flowers are permeated into the oils and organic pastel pink clay is added for it's soothing effects on dry skin.

This is my listing for my new Rose Geranium and Chamomile Soap. http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=25386983

Stop by and check out my etsy store.

Healthy Notions

2009-05-15T08:41:00.007+08:00

Today, I thought I would share info about my first shop outlet for New Earth Soaps. It's a friendly, well-run health shop in Eaton Fair Shopping Centre in Eaton near Bunbury, WA.
It is run by a lovely young naturopath named Natasha, and she is doing a great job at bringing personal, caring, friendly service back to the community. There is a high percentage of retired people in this area, and she and her staff do a wonderful job of caring for each and every one of them. In fact, I am sure a fair percentage of the locals just come in to say hi and get a little bit of her undivided attention and amazing energy.

Well, back to my soaps. I put them for sale in there just a few months ago, and I am getting good regular sales already. Wouldn't it be great if there was a way to gage repeat sales. Anyway, we looked at the figures and turnover yesterday, and in the last couple of months, sales have doubled. Yep, doubled! How exciting is that! So this post is to say thankyou to Natasha and her staff for their support to date, and if you need any health advice, call in and see them, 7 days a week. Great old fashioned service, personalised help, you just can't beat it.

Beer Soap!

2009-05-11T12:07:00.006+08:00

Check out the colour of this! This is the result from mixing the lye for my handmade soap with homebrewed beer. Usually, this is clear, so to me, this looks odd, very odd, but it smelt amazing. So, my house did smell like a pub for ages afterwards.

I now recall when I was a kid, new years eve parties that went for several days. Up to seven or eight families got together and camped on the beach. We fished and fished, and ate fresh tailor, snapper and king for breakfast, lunch and tea. Once I forgot my shampoo, and it was a mess after days of sun, surf and sand. The next best thing, beer. I had a nice cold bottle of swan drizzled through my hair and what do you know, the softest, silkiest hair resulted. Who'd of thought.

Anyway, this is the result of making beer soap, with essential oils eucalyptus, lemongrass, cinammon and clove. The colour through it is a mix of mineral rich seaweed powder and just a little carob powder for the colour. This is my first go at swirling the colours in this way so I really can't wait to cut it. When it's ready, I will post a link to it's etsy listing.

Coffee Soap Update!

2009-05-10T13:14:00.005+08:00

Well, here it is, at last...my coffee soap. For some reason I am yet to think of, I had the desire to cut this soap in extra thick chunks. The best thing though, it smells like a creamy cappuccino. Yummy! Next batch I am going to swirl through a bit more of the brewed coffee grounds though, for extra interest and texture. I can't wait to try it on my hands after chopping onions and crushing garlic. It'll remove those smells and leave your hands fresh and clean.

As Promised part two...

2009-05-07T08:26:00.004+08:00

I hope some of you out there have tried my easy, cost saving, eco-friendly laundry liquid. Do you notice how much softer your clothes are?

Now, I just need to tell you about the fabric softener. Commercial softeners are a toxic chemical nightmare to put it bluntly. The alternative is so so simple, you may not believe at first, but try it, and you will be converted. It's so simple, just replace your usual softener with vinegar! I put a few drops of eucalyptus oil in too and you have a wonderful, soft, fresh smelling load of laundry. Thats probably another 3 figure saving off your annual shopping bill.

As Promised.....

2009-05-03T10:59:00.005+08:00

Today, I will share with you my favourite recipe for laundry liquid. I found this recipe of my quick, easy and environmentally responsible ways of reducing my household running costs. Also, there are other bonus's. My clothes are so much softer, ironing is easier, no more itching and no more cardboard-like towels. Also, my gym instructor used some I gave her on her sheets. She hasn't slept that good in years, she said. Now that was an unexpected bonus!

Here it is...

50 grams pure soap, grated (lux soap flakes)
5 litres hot water
110 grams washing soda crystals (Lectric washing soda)
1.5 teaspoons eucalyptus or tea-tree oil ( I used a tablespoon of the one sold in the medical section of supermarket)
125ml white vinegar
a few drops of lemon or lavender essential oil ( I used a tablespoon of the one sold in the medical section of supermarket)

Grate the soap into a large saucepan, then stir in 1 litre of the hot water. Bring to the boil. Which off heat. Add washing soda and stir until dissolved. Stir in vinegar, remaining hot water and essential oils. When cooled poor into a couple of 2 litre containers. Top up if with a little more hot water. After it cools further, seal and shake. Use half a cup per load, diluting with more hot water before adding to wash if desired. It may be thicker in cooler weather, but it disperses well.

It take 15 minutes to make enough for a few months of washing, has saved me hundreds of dollars and is much kinder to our planet. Give it a go.

Any questions? Drop us a line, love to help.

Coffee and Cream anyone?

2009-04-27T06:54:00.004+08:00

Ooooh, this new etsy store seems to have 'whipped' up a new enthusiasm for experimenting. Yesterday I made coffee soap, something I remember wanting to make when I first thought of soapmaking in the early 90's. I brewed freshly ground coffee beans, made a creamy batch of soap with it, made another small amount of plain soap and whipped that into the top to (hopefully) look like whipped cream on the coffee cake. I look forward to seeing the final color underneath. Looks good enough to eat!

Coffee soap will be great to use when I have been chopping onions or garlic as it will remove the odor in my skin. I am sure it will work too for my husband after he has been playing in the shed.

Keep an eye out for when I cut the cake, errrr, I mean soap.!!!

1st Sale, YAY!

2009-04-25T06:39:00.000+08:00

Wow, things are happening already! I woke up to my first sale today! And on Etsy Day too! How fabulous! I see this as an omen!

Thank you to Ulixus for my first sudsy sale. Lets hope it's the first of many and the start of success after so much hard (but fun) work.

Ulixus will not only be receiving the ordered Honey and Oatmeal soap, pictured above, but a free castille soap too, my opening special. Two for one! I do hope you enjoy them.

Happy Etsy Day!

Welcome to New Earth Soaps!

2009-04-24T11:17:00.000+08:00

Welcome one and all to my new blog.

New Earth Soaps was created over a year ago. It began with making a batch at a friends house. I had always wanted to learn how to make real soap, but just never got around to it, until that day!

We made a simple castille soap for her husband. His skin is sensitive and he can use nothing else. I love it. Loved it so much, here I am today, blogging about it, sharing with you my excitement so much so, that I have also just launched my etsy store www.newearthsoaps.etsy.com

With the frustration of my own skin, being in my late 30's and I still having acne, I was excited to find handmade soap could be used on the face, and it started clearing. Nothing before this helped, not even in the slightest. Medically speaking, there was no reason for it. It just was. Imagine my amazement when just 2 weeks later, there was not a pimple in sight.

All this skin healing was an amazing coincidence. It wasn't expected in the slightest. It was a wonderful bonus. There will be more tales in following blog updates.

This blog is going to be not only about soap, but natural self care and home care. It can be done well for little money and little effort. Please follow my blog and receive recipes and ideas to help you live a healthier, more environmentally friendly life.

Live life well!