First it was T.P. (toilet paper), now soap? I had requests for how to embroider on soap, so here it is as promised.

Supplies:
Tulle Netting – 2 pieces 2” larger than hoop size (in width and length)
Water soluble stabilizer – 2 pieces 2” larger than hoop size (in width and length)
Bar of soap – flat on one side, the flatter the better
Embroidery design that is small enough to fit on the soap bar

Instructions:

1. (You might decide to stitch the design first and later ‘install’ the design on the soap. But, if you need the custom soap bar as soon as possible, you can multitask and do the sewing while the soap bar is being prepared.) Place a clean sponge on a plate and provide enough excess water to surround the sponge up to about half its thickness. To prevent the texture of the sponge from interfering with the smooth surface of the soap, place a piece of dampened muslin on top the sponge, then place the soap face down on top of the fabric. Softening the soap may take 10 to 15 minutes. Different types of soap soften at different rates, so check frequently.
2. Sandwich 2 layers of tulle between the water soluble stabilizer.
3. Hoop the sandwich.

4. Stitch out embroidery design.

5. Rough trim away the excess tulle and stabilizer. Soak the design in water to remove the water soluble stabilizer.

6. Cut around the design leaving about 1/8” of tulle along the outer edges of the design. This doesn’t have to be exact. The tulle will blend into the soap and will help hold the design in place.

7. Press the embroidery design into the softened side of the soap.
8. Allow the bar of soap to dry for a day, or longer if you have the time. The ‘face’ of the soap should be hard and moisture free before wrapping.