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DIY stained glass soap turns layers of colored glycerin into bars with a bright, mosaic-like look. Inspired by stained glass Jell-O, this melt-and-pour project uses clear soap cubes suspended in white glycerin. The steps are straightforward, and the finished bars can be used at home or wrapped as handmade gifts.
DIY stained glass soap supplies
The recipe makes about nine bars and cost around $25, not including the mixing bowl and loaf pan. Actual costs may vary depending on the supplies and mold you choose.
- 2 lbs. clear glycerin soap
- 2 lbs. white glycerin soap
- Essential oil for scent, such as sweet orange
- Soap dyes; red, yellow, and blue can be mixed to create other colors
- A glass or other microwave-safe bowl
- Soap molds, an aluminum loaf pan, or clean milk cartons
- Popsicle sticks or disposable spoons for stirring
Use colorants and fragrance intended for soapmaking, and follow their product directions. Choose a microwave-safe container with enough room to stir the melted soap without spilling.
How to make stained glass soap
1. Melt and color the clear glycerin
Cut the clear glycerin soap into cubes and divide it into three groups. Melt one group in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring as needed. You can also use a double boiler on the stovetop. Once melted, mix in soap dye and essential oil, then pour the soap into a mold.
Repeat with the remaining clear glycerin to make three colored batches. Using one scent throughout gives the bars a consistent fragrance, though you can choose a different approach if your fragrance products are suitable for combining.
Let the colored soap set for at least 3–4 hours before removing it from the molds. Leaving it overnight helps ensure the pieces are firm enough to cut and arrange.
2. Cut and arrange the colored pieces
Cut the hardened colored soap into cubes or long rectangles. Place the pieces in a loaf pan or another mold, spreading the colors throughout. Leave gaps between the pieces so the white glycerin can flow around them.
3. Add the white glycerin
Melt the white glycerin using the same method as the clear soap. Let it cool slightly before pouring it into the mold. If it is too hot, it may soften or melt the colored pieces, so avoid pouring it immediately after heating.
Allow the soap to set completely before removing it from the pan. Then cut the loaf into bars. For cleaner slices, use a sharp knife and cut slowly once the soap is fully firm.
Storing and gifting your soap
The bars can be used once they are set. To store them, wrap each bar in plastic wrap and keep it in a dry place. For gifts, wrap the finished bars individually and add a label with the scent or ingredients if desired.
This DIY stained glass soap project is an easy way to create colorful, handmade bars with basic melt-and-pour supplies. Take care not to overheat the glycerin, allow each layer to set properly, and enjoy arranging the colors to make every bar look a little different.
