Page 268 - The Lost Ways

Methodology

1. Prepare the lye.

Lye is very caustic, so you need to take some precautions when using it. Cover the work
area with a newspaper—unless you don’t mind corroding or dirtying it.

Wear protective gear such as eye
cover and gloves. Measure water
into the quartz can, and stand by
with your spoon ready to stir.

Measure the exact amounts of lye
needed, and pour it into the water,
stirring with every small addition.

You should take a step back when it
starts to fume and allow the gases to

evaporate. Allow the water to sit as
you move to the next step as the water clears. Never pour water into the lye as this could
cause an explosion. Always ensure that you are adding the lye into the water.

2. Weigh the olive oil.
Take a clean, clear jar, and place it on the weighing scale. Take note of its weight as you
will need this figure to get the exact olive oil weight.

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