It’s been a long, fruitful, delicious and DIRTY summer so far. I’ve been covered in everything from goat milk to potato beetle guts and regularly smeared with what seems like over fifty shades of brown. The smells I’ve proudly carried around on my body have been equally varied. Animal excrement ranging from the mild, nutty horse mounds I muck out daily from the stalls to the wet, rancid chicken shit that covers the soles of my shoes when I reach into the nesting boxes to collect the eggs. This, mixed together with soil scents from the garden and my own sweat has made for quite the nasal experience for anyone who has the pleasure to be within whiffing distance. Don’t get me wrong, I LOVE being dirty. Sometimes, though, there comes a time in every farmer’s life for a nice thorough scrub down.
Enter Melissa Probst! Melissa is a community-based soapmaking enthusiast who is coming to our farm at the beginning of next month! She will be teaching a four hour workshop on the basics of soapmaking using the traditional cold press method. Participants will learn about different carrier oils, essential oils and other soap ingredients, along with safety guidelines for working with lye. As a class we will work together to make a fresh batch of soap. Each student will also be able to take home close to a pound of their own, individually flavored, natural, homemade soap, with simple instructions for cutting and curing at home. Come join me in my quest to get clean! We provide all the materials and equipment. Dress for mess, preferably with long sleeves and closed shoes.
DETAILS
When: 9/1 from 12:30-4:30
Where: 712 Pratt Corner Rd. Amherst, MA
Cost: $65 but work exchange or barter can be arranged!
Registration: www.ancientponiesfarm.org