The Cloud Wave Melt and Pour Soap technique brings together soothing blue hues and soft white caps to mimic the beauty of a serene ocean wave or a fluffy cloudscape. This project is perfect for soap makers who love elegant, airy designs and want to learn more about working with mold types, layering techniques, and melt temperatures.
Whether you call it wave soap or cloud soap, this tutorial will help you create a stunning, sky-inspired bar that looks professional yet easy enough for any skill level.
Materials List
To make this melt and pour soap, you’ll need the following supplies:
Soap Bases
- Crystal Clear Melt and Pour Base – approximately 7 oz
- Shea Butter Melt and Pour Base – small amount for white caps
Colorants and Fragrance
- Blue Eyes Stardust Mica – for the soft blue wave color
- Watermelon Stardust Mica – for contrast or accent color
- Love Spell Fragrance Oil – about 2.5 mL per 7 oz of base
Molds
Tools
- Digital Scale (to measure cavity volume and soap weight)
- Thermometer (for precise temperature control)
- Funnel Cups (for easy pouring)
- Pipettes (3cc) for measuring fragrance
- Mini Spoons or Stir Sticks
- Rubbing Alcohol in a Spray Bottle
- Chopstick or Skewer (to test surface skin)
- Vegetable Peeler or Knife (for trimming edges)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Determine Mold Capacity
Fill each mold cavity with water to estimate how much soap base you’ll need. Pour the water into your digital scale container to weigh it.
- Mold A: ~3.6 oz capacity
- Mold B: ~3.1 oz capacity
This step ensures even pours and prevents waste.
Step 2: Melt and Prepare the Bases
Cut your soap bases into small cubes for easier melting.
- Melt the clear base and shea butter base separately in 20-second microwave intervals.
- Stir gently to avoid creating bubbles.
Use ~7 oz total of melted soap per two cavities.
Step 3: Create the White “Cloud” Layer
Pour a thin layer of melted shea butter base into each mold to form the “cloud cap.”
- Do not add fragrance to this layer.
- Swirl slightly, then pour out excess to create a thin, cloudy effect.
- Let cool for a few minutes until a light skin forms.
Step 4: Color and Scent the Blue Layer
Once your clear base cools to around 135–142°F, add:
- 2.5 mL of Love Spell fragrance oil
- 1 scoop of Blue Eyes Stardust mica (pre-mixed with a few drops of alcohol for smooth blending)
Gently stir until the mica is fully incorporated. Avoid overmixing to keep the soap base crystal clear.
Tip: Adding mica directly to the soap base can create speckles. Always pre-mix with alcohol for an even color.
Step 5: Pour the Colored Layer
Wait until the soap cools to around 115–120°F and has formed a slight skin. Spray the white layer with rubbing alcohol to help the new layer adhere.
Pour the blue mixture gently into the mold to avoid disturbing the white base. Allow to set completely.
Step 6: Unmold and Finish
Once the soap is fully hardened (typically after 1–2 hours), gently unmold.
- The rigid mold may require more effort to release the soap.
- Use a vegetable peeler or knife to clean up edges for a professional finish.
Pro Tips & Temperature Guidelines
- Ideal Pouring Temperature: 115–120°F for layered soaps.
- Fragrance Flash Point: Keep below 145°F to preserve scent.
- Color Mixing: Always disperse mica in alcohol before adding to soap base.
- Mold Selection: Rigid molds are cost-effective but may require extra care when unmolding.
- Reheating: If the soap forms too thick of a skin, microwave for 10 seconds and stir before pouring again.
Troubleshooting
| Issue | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Layers separated | Base cooled too much before pouring | Spray with alcohol between layers |
| Color speckles | Mica not dispersed | Mix mica with rubbing alcohol before adding |
| Cloudy clear base | Overstirring | Stir gently and avoid air bubbles |
| Soap sticks to mold | Unmolded too early | Let cool longer or refrigerate briefly |
Variations
- Ocean Breeze Version: Use turquoise mica and coconut fragrance for a beach-inspired bar.
- Sunset Waves: Blend coral, pink, and gold micas for a warm-toned variation.
- Cotton Candy Clouds: Try pastel pinks and purples for a whimsical look.
- Dual Pour Effect: Pour from both sides using funnel cups for a marbled finish.
Final Results
The finished Cloud Wave Melt and Pour Soap is breathtaking — translucent blue waves topped with soft white caps that look like sea foam or wispy clouds. Both mold types perform beautifully, but the flexible one is easier to unmold and provides a slightly rounder finish.
Each bar weighs approximately 3.5–3.6 oz, fits comfortably in hand, and makes a perfect gift or addition to your artisan soap collection.
Conclusion
This project beautifully blends artistry and science, showcasing how temperature control and simple layering can produce professional results. Whether you’re crafting soaps for personal use or your handmade shop, the Cloud Wave Melt and Pour Soap will add a touch of tranquility and elegance to your collection.
For more melt and pour soap tutorials, visit KoalaSoap.com — where creativity meets relaxation.
