A soap snob by definition, is someone who has learned the soapmaking are and appreciates the feel and scent of homemade soaps over commercial brands. Soap snobs, the teacher informed, are also able to pick up any soap bar and detect what it is made of just by its feel. They can also smell any animal fat that might be contained in a bar of soap. While teaching, Howard reminded the students that making soap requires a great deal of patience, since the finished product doesn't occur the same day the mixture is made. The average curing time for soaps is three to five weeks.
Students seem to have different reasons for learning the art.
Karen Ashton, an Orem resident, said she has an interest in ancient crafts, including spinning, weaving, quilting and storytelling. She felt soapmaking fell into that category and decided to give it a try. For Elberta resident Illeane Dennis, learning to make soap was an educational tool she may use someday for survival. But at least it generates an awareness of what people go through to make their own soap. Kearns resident Shelia Timmons, who helps Howard teach the soapmaking course, knows firsthand the value of making her own soap.