Olive oil is a staple in soap making due to its numerous skin benefits. It is known for:

Gentleness: Olive oil is mild and suitable for sensitive skin, making it an excellent choice for baby soaps and for those with skin conditions.
Moisturizing Properties: High percentages of olive oil in soap result in a moisturizing bar that helps retain skin hydration.
Hardness: Although olive oil can make soap soft initially, it cures into a hard bar, providing longevity.

Sweet almond oil is another fantastic ingredient for soap making, offering:

Nourishment: Rich in vitamins A and E, sweet almond oil nourishes the skin and promotes a healthy complexion.
Lather Quality: It contributes to a stable lather, enhancing the overall washing experience.
Skin Compatibility: Known for its emollient properties, it helps soothe dry and irritated skin.

12.5 oz (354 g) Olive Oil (44.64%)
3.5 oz (99 g) Sweet Almond Oil (12.5%)
8 oz (227 g) Coconut Oil (28.57%)
4 oz (113 g) Kokum or Cocoa Butter (14.29%)
3.95 oz (112 g) Lye (Sodium Hydroxide)
8.5 oz (241 g) Water or Herbal Tea (for infusion)
Optional: Essential oils (e.g., lavender, tea tree) for fragrance

Digital scale
Soap mold
Mixing bowl
Stick blender
Safety gear (gloves, goggles)
Lye calculator (for precise measurements)

Prepare Your Workspace: Ensure your workspace is clean and free of clutter. Put on your safety gear.

Measure Your Ingredients: Use a digital scale to measure out all your oils and lye accurately.

Mix Lye with Water: In a well-ventilated area, carefully mix the lye with water (or herbal tea) until fully dissolved. Allow it to cool.

Heat Oils: Gently heat the olive oil, sweet almond oil, coconut oil, and kokum or cocoa butter until fully melted.

Combine Lye and Oils: Once both the lye solution and the oils are at a similar temperature (between 100°F and 110°F), slowly pour the lye solution into the oils while mixing with a stick blender.

Blend to Trace: Blend the mixture until it reaches "trace," which means it thickens to a pudding-like consistency.

Add Optional Ingredients: If desired, stir in any essential oils or additional ingredients at this stage.

Pour into Mold: Carefully pour the soap mixture into your mold. Tap gently to remove any air bubbles.

Cure the Soap: Cover the mold with a towel and let it sit for 24-48 hours until it hardens. After that, unmold and cut into bars.

Cure the Bars: Allow the soap bars to cure for 4-6 weeks in a cool, dry place. This allows the soap to harden and the lye to fully saponify.

Experiment with Ratios: You can adjust the percentage of sweet almond oil in your recipe. While 12.5% is standard, some soap makers use up to 30% without issues (as noted in the Soap Making Forum).
Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality oils to ensure the best results in your soap.
Keep a Soap Journal: Document your recipes, observations, and any modifications you make for future reference.

Making soap with olive oil and sweet almond oil is not only straightforward but also results in a nourishing product for your skin. The combination of these oils creates a gentle, moisturizing bar that is perfect for daily use. By following this recipe and tips, you can create beautiful, handcrafted soap that you can enjoy yourself or gift to others. Happy soaping!