Soap Making Supplies

I recently had to quit my job because of a disability that prevents me from standing on my feet for extended periods of time. Even though I'll be able to collect Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), the monthly checks aren't going to be enough to cover my household expenses. I'll need to do something to bring in extra money, all while adhering to the SSDI guidelines regarding "substantial gainful activity". In other words, it's ok for me to make some money from a home-based business, but not too much.

After giving some thought to what I can do at home to earn cash now, I decided to make my own soaps and sell them on a friend's website. This actually used to be a hobby of mine a while ago, so I still have some soap making supplies around here. For my initial batch, I'll simply use up what I have, and then I can wait until the finished products are sold out before I order new soap making supplies. This will allow me to start selling my merchandise without having to invest in a lot of inventory beforehand.

Even though I'm not planning on buying any more soap making supplies right at this moment, I know I'll have to in the near future. I'm sure a lot of things have changed in the years since I last created my own decorative soaps. For instance, the old site where I used to buy discount soap making supplies is no longer around, so I'm going to have to find a new place to purchase all my raw materials, kits, molds, and cutters. Plus, it would probably be smart to check out a few craft message boards where other hobbyists hang out in order to learn what the latest trends and preferences are. That way I can buy the essential oils and fragrance oils that are most likely to be in demand by customers.

I have a general idea of what kind of place I want to do business with. Ideally, it should be big enough to offer wholesale soap making supplies with reasonable minimums, and should be able to ship the materials reliably. And of course I want to have a wide selection of products to choose from, including melt and pour bases, butters, and a bunch of all-natural ingredients. I would also look favorably on a website that sells other body care products in addition to soap making supplies so I can offer my shoppers these types of related items once I become a bit more established.

To tell you the truth, I am definitely worried about my financial situation now that I'm no longer able to hold a regular job outside my home. But seeing my leftover soap making supplies has given me new inspiration and hope for my future. At least I'll have some way of bringing in a small income to supplement my disability checks.