Olive Soapmaking on the Ranch

  In this class you will learn how to make a cold-process soap using the fine Hillcrest Ranch olive oil, pressed from olives grown on the site.  We will learn how to measure and mix the ingredients, how to safely work with  sodium hydroxide (lye), attributes of different plant oils, options for molding, details on the curing process and more.  We will make one heartwarming olive oil/lavendar soap together and you will take home a bar   that has already been cured, plus detailed directions for getting started at home.

This class takes place at Hillcrest Ranch a 6 acres olive tree farm in Sunol, planted in the 1890s and still producing olives and olive oil today.  The ranch is an approximately 45 minute drive from Oakland and is well worth the time it takes to get there.  Come earlier in the day for a hike in Pleasanton Ridge Regional Park (the Ranch is located within it's limits) and then enjoy the spectacular views from the Ranch during the class.  Carpooling/caravan will be arranged, please let us know if you can offer or need a ride when you register.