9 Best Online Soap Making Classes (Reviewed in 2024)

Last Updated on October, 2024

Making your own soap at home is all the rage now. It’s not hard to see why. Handmade soaps make the perfect gift for your friends and family. Maybe you’re even looking into starting your own business. 

Well, this is where we come in. We’ve compiled a carefully curated selection of the best online soap-making classes that promise to elevate your soap-making skills.

Whether you’re a beginner at soap making or looking to enhance your skills, these courses offer a hands-on approach to creating beautiful, fragrant soaps. 

Each course is designed to cater to various skill levels, from understanding the basics of soap ingredients to mastering intricate designs. You’ll also be in good hands with experienced soap makers who will guide you every step of the way. 

When it comes to soap making, your only limit is your imagination! 

List of the Best Online Soap-making Classes

Let’s dive into soap-making with the top online courses we’ve hand-picked for you. One of these online classes is sure to be the perfect fit for you. 

1. How to Make Melt & Pour Soap – Beginners Step By Step Guide

a screenshot of "how to make melt pour soap beginners step by step guide"

Platform: Udemy.

Course Length: 55 videos (2 hours and 40 minutes). 

Standard Price: $64.99

Level: Beginner. 

If you’re eager to dive into soap making without investing in equipment or dealing with tricky chemicals, this ‘melt and pour’ tutorial is your go-to!

It’s a straightforward method that lets you whip up some seriously impressive soaps. 

The teacher, Shona, holds 18 years of soap-making experience and 15 years of teaching. She’s got the know-how. 

This course teaches you the essential equipment you’ll need and where to find it. Shona guides you in prepping your workspace for the best experience.

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She’ll teach you about the ingredients for melt-and-pour soap, from fragrances to colors, and learn how to make a simple soap bar and jazz it up with colorants, scents, emollients, seeds, and more. 

You will also gain insight into how to create visually stunning soaps, from marbling to layering and even 3D effects. Shona spills the beans on embedding shapes and objects. Want sugar scrub bars? She’s got you covered.

Plus, you get the lowdown on wrapping and storing your soap for maximum freshness.

Pros

Highly experienced educator providing clear and easy-to-follow instructions, ensuring a safe introduction to soap making, especially for beginners and as a fun activity for children. 
No harmful chemicals are involved. 
Despite the simplicity of the method, Shona introduces advanced techniques to elevate your soap-making skills. 
You will receive a certificate when you complete the course. 

Cons

There is limited detailed information on mixing and measuring, as the course is tailored for beginners; those seeking more in-depth explanations might prefer an alternative course. 
While melt and pour is beginner-friendly, it may not allow for as many advanced techniques compared to the cold-pressed or hot-pressed methods. 

Overview: This course is an excellent introduction to crafting soap in the comfort of your home—an ideal choice for beginners. 


2. How to Make Soap – Homemade Soap Making for Beginners

a screenshot of "how to make soap homemade soap making for beginners" course

Platform: Udemy. 

Course Length: 65 videos (2 hours and 19 minutes). 

Standard Price: $74.99.

Level: Beginner. 

This soap-making course, a bestseller on Udemy, is taught by Shona O’Connor, a veteran soap maker with over 25 years of experience in the craft.

All you need is some basic math and simple kitchen equipment! 

In this online course, you’ll learn how to make homemade natural soap from scratch using readily available ingredients in your pantry.

The focus is on creating pure and natural soap with all-natural ingredients, steering clear of harsh substances and known irritants. 

Additionally, you’ll gain the skills to calculate the exact amount of soap needed to fill your mold and even devise your own unique recipes. 

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You’ll discover the secrets of using colors and fragrances to produce visually stunning and wonderfully scented soaps– perfect for gifting or selling.

You’ll learn to employ budget-friendly items to create impressive packaging that complements your handmade soap creations.

Pros

Informative and easy to follow with detailed step-by-step instructions. 
Plenty of articles and downloadable resources are provided that will help you create your own recipes from scratch. 
You’ll receive a certificate when you complete the course. 

Cons

Some may find the pace too fast. 
It may be boring. 

Overview: A simple, fun introductory course on making soap; perfect for beginners.


3. Make Hot Process Soap – Ready to Use in Less Than 5 Hours

a screenshot of "make hot process soap ready to use in less than 5 hours" course

Platform: Udemy. 

Course Length: 40 video lessons (1 hour and 5 minutes). 

Standard Price: $74.99

Level: Beginner and Intermediate. 

Explore the unique world of hot-process soap making with the guidance of experienced teacher Shona O’Connor.

Shona covers every aspect, from measuring, safety equipment, sourcing ingredients, and using and storing them securely. Within a few hours, you’ll be making these delightful soaps.

In this course, you’ll learn how to accurately measure ingredients for perfect results and mixing techniques for colors and fragrances.

Shona walks you through the step-by-step process of creating your first bar of plain hot processed soap, covering, mixing, melting, molding, and turning out your soap. 

Learn how to craft a layered exfoliating soap, complete with information on superfatting.

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You will also gain a basic understanding of alternative hot-process soap-making methods.

The course also empowers you to create your own recipes, teaching you to calculate base oil amounts, determine volumes for rectangular and cylindrical molds, select base oils, and use a lye calculator.

Pros

It offers a captivating alternative soap-making technique for beginners and those looking to expand their skills. 
Provides extra resources like shopping lists and information sheets on oils and fragrances.
Emphasizes the use of locally sourced oil and colorants, enabling the creation of truly unique products tailored to your preference. 

Cons

Hot-process soap making presents additional technical challenges compared to melt-and-pour or cold-process soap making, requiring some extra equipment. 
While a great introduction to the technique, the video content is not as extensive as other courses.

Overview: This course suits anyone curious about the hot process soap-making technique or wanting to refresh their knowledge. It thoroughly explores the hot process method, providing essential information on ingredients, measurements, and soap-making safety.


4. How to Make Soap At Home A-Z 

a screenshot of "how to make soap at home A-Z" course

Platform: Udemy. 

Course Length: 30 video lessons (6 hours and 24 minutes). 

Standard Price: $74.99.

Level: All levels. 

This comprehensive course covers everything about making soap at home and through the cold process soap-making method. With six and a half hours of content, it guides you through safety precautions and even touches on labeling laws.

Ansa Smith, the highly-rated teacher, boasts an impressive 4.6-star rating for this course. Throughout the learning experience, you’ll discover the necessary safety equipment to shield yourself from harmful chemicals.

Ansa provides insights into selecting the most cost-effective kit for the soap-making process. It delves into essential ingredients, including optimal extras. 

You will learn the art of formulating recipes to ensure your personalized creations are well-balanced and safe.

Gain valuable advice on curing and storing your soap for optimal results. 

Explore the pros and cons of natural and synthetic colors, master the selection and application of quality essential oils and synthetic fragrances, and elevate your soap by adding exfoliators. 

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Ansa also covers packaging and labeling laws across different countries, ensuring you’re well-informed if you decide to enter the soap-making business. 

Pros

An engaging teacher who actively encourages student participation and addresses questions, ensuring a positive learning experience for everyone. 
Exceptional attention to detail: Ansa breaks down soap-making concepts thoroughly, instilling confidence in your abilities by the end of the course. 
Lifetime access to the program allows you to re-visit the content at any point in your soap-making journey. 

Cons

Ansa employs metric measurements, requiring conversion to US imperial units. However, this is manageable as ratios remain consistent, and online converters offer quick solutions. 
Immediate hands-on soap-making enthusiasts may need patience, as initial videos focus more on conversation than practical application.

Overview: This online course caters to beginners, offering comprehensive knowledge to instill confidence in soap making. With a wealth of detailed information and a passionate teacher, it equips those starting from scratch. 

Even individuals with prior soap-making experience will find value in the program’s specialized aspects, such as assessing ingredient quality and understanding labeling laws. 

It’s a thorough exploration that delves into every aspect of crafting your own soap, making it an excellent resource for anyone looking to dive into the art of soap making.


5. Online Cold Process Soap Course

a screenshot of "online cold process soap course"

Platform: Soap School. 

Course Length: Over 25 video lessons. 

Standard Price: £125 ($159.29)

Level: All levels. 

Soap School, based in the UK, is renowned for top-notch, in-person soap-making courses, and the good news is that they’ve expanded to online classes as well, which are accessible worldwide.

With a combined 30 years of experience, instructors Sarah and Shawn bring a wealth of knowledge to this comprehensive course. It includes detailed video content, downloadable resources, and ongoing tutor support for your soap-making journey. 

Throughout the course, you’ll gain insights into soap-making’s history and introductory chemistry, covering materials, ingredients, and necessary equipment.

Learn the intricacies of saponification and discover the art of choosing optimal ingredients, from effective oils and butter to botanical exfoliants and clay. 

The course emphasizes lye safety, incorporating lye calculators and guiding you on formulating your own soap recipes.

Explore natural coloring methods using herbs and spices, delve into the use of essential oils and fragrance oils, and master creative effects like layers, sculpted layers, and swirl designs. 

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The course also covers practical aspects such as preparing molds, understanding insulating and gel stages, pH testing, cutting, curing, and storing soaps. You will also learn how to wrap and package your finished soaps perfectly. 

Pros

Soap School is a highly esteemed institution, ensuring you receive top-notch education from industry experts. 
Emphasis on all-natural ingredients like herbs and botanicals guarantees skin-beneficial, natural soap. 
Ongoing tutor support through email or telephone ensures assistance and troubleshooting guidance whenever needed. 
Positive reviews from past students affirm the course’s quality.

Cons

Quite expensive. 
Covers only cold process soap making. 

Overview: This course is ideal for individuals seeking a thorough soap-making foundation. Offering a wealth of content, it is a prestigious class that ensures you embark on the journey of crafting your own high-quality, natural soap. 


6. Melt and Pour Glycerin Soap Crafting

a screenshot of "melt and pour glycerin soap crafting course"

Platform: Soap School. 

Course Length: Over 25 video lessons. 

Standard Price: £125 ($159.29)

Level: All levels. 

Discover the world of melt and pour soaps, also known as glycerin, which are gentle soaps without harsh chemicals.

Sarah and Shawn will be your guides, covering everything you need to know, from essential health and safety advice to advanced techniques for crafting standout soaps. 

Throughout the course, you’ll gain insights into crucial health and safety practices, explore various soap bases, and master melting and heat control techniques for optimal results.

Learn the art of adding color and fragrance to your soaps and incorporating herbs and botanicals for a natural soap.

Learn creative techniques like glitters, layering, and shaping to achieve stunning effects. 

The course goes beyond the basics, teaching you how to craft unique soap creations, including stained glass window soaps, fun soap toys, exfoliating cleansing bars, and even delightful soap cupcakes.

screenshot of "melt and pour glycerin soap crafting course" content

Pros

Access to over 20 projects, providing a diverse range of soap-making experiences and ample inspiration for future projects. 
Enjoy one-on-one telephone and email support with tutors, ensuring you always have assistance with any questions. 
Soap School is a respected institution specializing in soap-making courses, guaranteeing top-notch learning from industry experts. 

Cons

Quite expensive. 
Limited to the melt and pour technique. 

Overview: This course is perfect for those keen on a thorough introduction to melt and pour soap making. It offers a fantastic in-depth exploration guided by a reputable educator. It’s a brilliant starting point for creating the perfect melt-and-pour soap. 


7. Essential and Fragrance Oil 101 in Soap Making: How to Blend and Calculate Your Oil Combination

a screenshot of "essential and fragrance oil 101 in soap making course"

Platform: Skillshare.

Course Length: 8 video lessons (42 minutes). 

Standard Price: Free for the first month following a monthly subscription payment of $29.

Level: Intermediate and Advanced. 

The instructor, Sandra, takes you on a focused journey into a crucial aspect of soap making– fragrance. The course provides essential insights into choosing and blending scents, empowering you to create personalized blends tailored to your tastes confidently. 

Throughout the course, you’ll understand the distinctions between fragrance oils and essential oils, learn how to use each, and determine the most suitable option for your specific project. 

Sandra covers fragrance note knowledge, delving into the nuances of top, medium, and base notes, and tips for effectively combining these notes. Explore the concept of a fragrance wheel and learn how to use it for crafting harmonious scent combinations.

Sandra guides you through the best practices for testing your scent blend before committing to an entire soap batch. 

Additionally, the course provides valuable insights into calculating your scented oil combination and determining the optimal time to incorporate it into your soap mixture.

Pros

A well-balanced mix of theoretical knowledge and practical advice equips you with the skills to use scents in your soaps effectively. 
This course’s theoretical aspects are presented clearly and straightforwardly, complemented by helpful visuals. 
Since fragrance is a pivotal element in soap making, this course imparts an essential skill that will benefit all your future projects. 

Cons

This course only provides a comprehensive understanding of the soap-making process, as it only focuses on fragrances. 
Sandra primarily focuses on the cold process method, leaving uncertainty about the applicability of these tips to other soap-making methods. 

Overview: This course is perfect for those looking to enhance their understanding of scents and elevate their soap-making skills. Overall, it provides a helpful and straightforward explanation of fragrance fundamentals, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in crafting their own in-house soap. 


8. Basic Knowledge of Cold Process Soap Colorants and How to Use it

a screenshot of "basic knowledge of cold process soap colorants and how to use it course"

Platform: Skillshare. 

Course Length: 11 videos (50 minutes). 

Standard Price: Free for the first month following a monthly subscription payment of $32.

Level: Intermediate and Advanced.

Unlike many other online courses on soap making that briefly touch on adding colorants, this course exclusively centers on this crucial aspect.

Specifically tailored for those already familiar with cold process soap making, it dives deep into color theory design principles and practical testing of soap samples. 

Throughout the course, you’ll grasp the fundamentals of color theory, enabling you to choose the perfect hues for your soap projects. Gain insights into various colorants and understand their compatibility with different soap types.

Learn how to use water and oil to achieve the desired color intensity, focusing on creating oil infusions. 

Explore methods for making soap samples, allowing you to test and refine colors before committing to a larger soap batch. Look into the creative process of designing your soap, from collecting inspiration to translating ideas onto paper. 

The course also provides layering and swirling tips. It lets you in on the ‘soap’ painting technique, unlocking even more possibilities for unique soap designs.

Pros

It provides extensive detail on various aspects of color, offering a wide range of options for decorating your homemade soaps. 
Sandra’s explanation of the color wheel is helpful, providing a deeper, more artistic understanding of the soap-making process. 
Offers a hands-on interactive learning experience. 

Cons

Focuses solely on tips for the cold process soap method. 
Relatively short, and additional examples of different colorants being used would be highly beneficial. 

Overview: This course is ideal for individuals familiar with the cold process method seeking to deepen their understanding of color and color theory in soap making. Overall, it serves as a valuable guide to an essential aspect of the cold process method in soap design. 


9. Soap Making Business Diploma

a screenshot of "soap making business diploma course"

Platform: Centre Of Excellence.

Course Length: Approx 150 hours. 

Standard Price: £147 ($187.33)

Level: Intermediate and Advanced. 

This soap-making course focuses on business. Beyond soap-making fundamentals, it transforms this hobby into a successful business venture. 

Covering everything from essential ingredients to marketing strategies and branding, the course equips you with practical skills and business knowledge to turn your soap-making passion into a lucrative side hustle or even a full-fledged business. 

Throughout the course, you’ll learn about the necessary materials, emphasizing the significance of lye and oil in the soap-making process. Explore various methods, including melt and pour, and hot and cold process soap making.

Understand how to choose the proper additives, such as essential oils, botanicals, and colorants, to enhance your soap creations. 

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The business aspect covers a feasibility study to assess your potential, decide on a structure, set up insurance and trademarks, and understand suppliers and trade associations.

You’ll learn about legal considerations and labeling, including cosmetic regulations, technological advancements, and good manufacturing practices. 

The course also covers the basics of sales, guiding you on pricing your products and identifying suitable sales channels. You will also learn to craft an effective marketing strategy and implement branding.

Pros

Develops both creative talents and commerce skills, providing an exciting opportunity to not only master soap making but also how to sell your soaps. 
Commerce skills acquired in this course can easily be applied to other small craft-based enterprises. 
Despite being a combination course, it covers all critical areas expected in a regular soap-making course. 
Offers an engaging learning experience through video lessons, exercises, and assignments. 

Cons

Lacks information about the course creators’ credentials. However, the Centre of Excellence is a reputable site, and the Complementary Medicine Association accredits the course, the Quality License Scheme, and the CPD Certification Service. 
No specific reviews were found for this course with the Centre of Excellence, making it challenging to gauge other users’ experiences. 

Overview: This class is perfect for individuals aiming to enhance their soap-making abilities while gaining insights into building a business around their craft. It’s an excellent investment for anyone looking to turn their handmade soap into a source of income. 


What to Look for in an Online Soap-Making Course? 

When considering an online soap-making class, look for the following: 

  • Comprehensive Content: Ensure the class covers essential aspects such as basic techniques, ingredients, and safety measures. 
  • Hands-On Learning: Opt for courses offering practical exercises and assignments to apply theoretical knowledge actively. 
  • Instructor Experience: Check the instructor’s background and soap-making experience to ensure credible and reliable guidance. 
  • Reviews and Testimonials: Look for feedback from past pupils to gauge the course’s effectiveness and the instructor’s teaching style. 
  • Cost and Value: Evaluate the class cost against the content, instructor expertise, and additional resources provided for a well-rounded learning experience.

Benefits of Taking an Online Soap-Making Course 

a women making soap at home

Taking an online soap-making course offers several advantages: 

  • Flexibility: Learn at your own pace and schedule, fitting the course around your daily commitments. 
  • Accessibility: Access course materials anytime, anywhere, and at your own pace, fostering convenience and adaptability to different learning environments. 
  • Cost Effective: Often more affordable than in-person classes, saving on travel and accommodation expenses. 
  • Diverse Content: Online courses cover various topics, from basics to advanced skills, providing a comprehensive learning experience. 
  • Global instructors: Learn from experts worldwide, gaining diverse perspectives and insights into soap-making methods. 
  • Resource Availability: Access downloadable resources, video lessons, and demonstrations to enhance understanding and practical application.

Are you looking for a best online learning platform that will have all the categories of courses? Well, we got you covered with our article here.

Other course categories you might like:

FAQs 

Yes, selling handmade soaps can be profitable with creative designs, quality ingredients, and effective marketing. It can also appeal to a niche market.

A professional soap maker is often referred to as a “soaper,” although some may simply go by “soap maker.”

Yes, it can be difficult for beginners due to precise measurements and working with chemicals. However, with practice and proper safety measures, it becomes easier and can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience.

There are advantages to both options. Making soap allows for control over ingredients and customization while avoiding certain additives. It can also be cost-effective. On the other hand, buying soap is convenient, saves time, and guarantees consistent quality and fragrance.

The duration of online soap-making courses typically ranges from 1 to 6 hours of course content.

The cost of an online soap-making course can range from $50 to $150 or more.

Wrapping Up 

Whether pursuing soap-making as a hobby or aspiring to turn it into a source of income, these courses provide a solid foundation for your soap-making journey. 

Happy learning! 

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Carlos Eduardo
Hey there, I’m Carlos Eduardo, the Founder and Author of Scorebeyond. Delving deep into 20+ years of education transformation through innovative e-learning, I’ve poured my expertise into this platform. My enduring legacy continues to drive the path towards a future empowered by knowledge!

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