Soapmaking has deep roots in Appalachian life, where families once rendered fats and ashes to make the household soaps they depended on. Today, those same traditions are finding new life through modern techniques that emphasize safety and creativity. This class connects that heritage to the present — reminding us that self-sufficiency, sustainability, and shared knowledge are as valuable now as they were generations ago.
This November, we invite you to roll up your sleeves and get creative with a hands-on class that blends chemistry, craftsmanship, and holiday tradition: Soapmaking for the Holidays, led by Family & Consumer Sciences Agent Niki Maness.
Participants will learn the fundamentals of traditional cold-process soapmaking, from accurately measuring ingredients and understanding lye safety, to choosing oils, fragrances, and natural colorants that create beautiful, functional bars. This class will be a make and take, perfect for gift-giving or personal use.
This class is one of my favorites to teach. Soapmaking brings together so many FCS principles such as: safety, resourcefulness, creativity, and even sustainability. It’s also a wonderful way to make cost-effective, thoughtful, gifts while learning a new skill.
The workshop will also cover beginner-friendly topics like mixing temperatures, troubleshooting texture, and tips for curing and packaging finished soaps. All materials and safety gear will be provided, and scent-sensitive workstations will be available upon request.
Soapmaking for the Holidays will be held Thursday, November 13, from 6:00–8:00 PM at the N.C. Cooperative Extension, Yancey County Center. Space is limited, and registration is required. If you have questions, please reach out to Niki at (828) 682-6186 or niki_maness@ncsu.edu.
