This guide is geared to the beginner, but also has helpful tips for the professional crafter as well.

The most important key is quality ingredients.  I like to use all natural ingredients in my products as much as possible.  Sometimes you have to use a small amount of preservatives in your products.  This protects you, as well as your customer.   Look for soapmaking supplies sold in lots, or buy waxes, lotion bar bases, bath bomb bases, lotion bases, etc. already blended for you.  You basically just add scent and mix and pour.  This makes bathcrafting fun, fast and easy.

Secondly, it is of utmost importance to know your ingredients, such as any therapeutic properties, etc.

Also, equally important is the proper labelling of your soap and toiletries product, as well as any pertinent warnings.  These might include allergy warnings, keeping away from children and pets, fire and personal safety, etc.

In creating a product itself, it is helpful to keep in mind the desires of the potential customer.  I try to create bath product bases, that make it easy for the crafter to create and customize their own unique product.  There is always room for lots of experimentation.  Get a basic knowledge of the properties of essential oils, herbs, butters, waxes, etc.  This will go a long way in helping you to create one of a kind products.  It also helps to know a bit about fragrances.  There are such a myriad of fragrance oils available today, that you are only limited by your imagination.

As far as recipes and formulas go, there are many on the internet.  I have them in my store, as well.  It is a good idea to keep up with the latest in technology, such as anti-ageing products, which do have natural alternatives, which work as well if not better than their synthetic counterparts.  I am writing recipes that will soon be in my store that give lots of effective alternatives to the expensive anti-ageing creams, serums and treatments on the market today.  The best part?  You can create them at home for mere pennies.

Packaging and labels should look neat, clean and proffessional, as well as contain information such as ingredients, weight, fragrance and a way to contact you for more product.

As I have learned, it is very important to promptly acknowledge the customer, and ship their order as soon as possible.  This makes for a positive E-bay experience.

Think seasonally, when creating your products.  Create soaps and bath products that correlate with the season and any upcoming holidays.  This can help boost sales. Lastly, the customer is always right.  Always go the extra mile to satisfy your customer.  Good luck in your endeavours.