handmade soap

About the UMSG

In the late 1990s, a group of soapmakers based in and around Minneapolis began holding gatherings to draw together soapmakers from around the Midwest. After two well-attended soapmakers gatherings in Minnesota and much interest, the Upper Midwest Soapmakers Guild was officially established in 2001. The intent was to form a community of soapers and, through a more regional base, better serve the needs of area soapmakers.

Our gatherings have ranged in location, mainly in Minnesota and Wisconsin. We have had the honor of demonstrations from the fabulous talent of our own soapers and presentations from guest speakers on numerous topics. Many techniques have been shared, such as blender soapmaking, swirling, herbal use in soaps, bath bomb making, and the list goes on and on. Speakers have informed us in perfume making, scent blending, emulsification and the HLB system, the qualities of emu oil, packaging, marketing, and many other helpful and informative topics.

At more than one of the UMSG gatherings, one of the highlights was a guest appearance by the late Maurice O. Hevey, cosmetic chemist and friend of the guild. His expertise and help provided a valuable resource for the whole soaping community. We miss him dearly. Maurice O. Hevey Guestbook

The Upper Midwest Soapmakers Guild continues today, a community of soapers, dedicated to sharing information and forming friendships. "For the love of soap..."