Notes from Fishponds If you've ever looked closely at the MIF Soap Co logo, you might have spotted a clue to something I have loved for a very long time. The typeface has a definite nod to the Arts & Crafts movement. I've always been drawn to that period. Not simply because the things produced were beautiful, although they absolutely were, but because of the thinking behind them. The tools, the skills, the craftsmanship and the belief that the person making something actually

Notes from Fishponds This is one of the questions I'm asked most often at markets. The answer? Yes! In fact, it's the way I use face oil every single day. Many people think a face oil hydrates the skin, but that's not actually its job. Think of it like this... Water gives your skin a lovely drink. Oil helps to keep that drink where it's needed. A face oil helps to soften the skin, support the skin's natural barrier and reduce the amount of moisture that evaporates from the su

Notes from Fishponds It's a question I'm asked surprisingly often. "If I'm using a face oil, do I still need a moisturiser?" The simple answer is... Not always. But it helps to understand what each one actually does. What's the difference? Although they both help your skin, they work in slightly different ways. A moisturiser is designed to add water to the outer layers of your skin and help keep it there. A face oil doesn't add water. Instead, it helps lock in moisture that's

Notes from Fishponds One of the lovely things about shampoo bars is how long they last. Our full-size MIF shampoo bars give around 40 washes, but there are a few simple things you can do to help them last even longer. It's a question I'm often asked at markets, so I thought I'd share my favourite tips. Keep it dry between washes The biggest secret is surprisingly simple. Let your shampoo bar dry out properly after you've used it. If it sits in a puddle of water, it'll continu

Notes from Fishponds If you've ever picked up a shampoo bar and thought, "That seems expensive," you're not alone. It's probably the question I'm asked most often at markets. At first glance, a shampoo bar can look more expensive than a bottle of supermarket shampoo. It's smaller for a start. But after working as a hairdresser for many years, and now making my own shampoo bars, I've realised we're not always comparing like with like. So, let's have a closer look. You're buyin

In 2022, my husband Dean, came home from work with a surprise that would always stay with me. “I’ve booked us two tickets to see a play...