A few weeks ago I was invited to take part in a DIY contest on A Subtle Ravelry called “So Fresh and So Clean.” For the contest I created a tablescape for a DIY party and designed a companion project: custom soap carvings.
Now that the contest has ended, I’m excited to share the project here on the blog.
Soap carving is simple and flexible—you can carve words, initials, shapes, or any design you imagine. Use the finished soaps as part of a tablescape at your next DIY gathering, then let guests choose their favorites to take home as party favors. Or keep them on display in the bathroom to add a bit of charm—either way, they’re practical and pretty.
Materials you’ll need: 1. Bar soap (Ivory is a good choice) 2. Dish sponge 3. Pencil or pen 4. Speedball linoleum cutter with handle and assorted blades (use carving blades for clean results)
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Hold each bar of soap under warm running water and gently rub the surface with a dish sponge to remove the factory-pressed brand name or any uneven top layer. This may take a few minutes; the goal is a smooth surface without deep indentations.
2. Allow the soap to dry and harden overnight so it’s easier to carve cleanly.
3. Lightly sketch your design on the soap with a soft pencil. Writing on soap can be faint, so even a shallow indentation will serve well as a guide.
4. Using a linoleum carving tool, remove the excess soap around your design to leave the motif raised. For broad removal use a larger blade; for curved or detailed areas switch to smaller, finer carving tips. Work slowly and carefully to avoid accidents and to preserve detail.
Finishing ideas: Wrap carved soaps in vintage handkerchiefs and tie with twine for an elegant, handmade party favor. You can also combine several carved soaps in a decorative bowl for a simple bathroom display.
For more quick and easy project ideas, visit the craft tutorials and DIY projects page on the Paper & Stitch blog, which features more than 50 DIYs. If you enjoyed this project, please consider sharing it on social media to help spread the word—thank you!