You’ll also need a 4-inch soap mold, a large microwave-safe measuring cup, a spoon or wooden craft stick for stirring, and optionally, a wavy soap cutter if you want a decorative edge for your bars.

Q: Can you tell me what the mold-like thing in the photograph is? I think it appeared after a recent rainfall. — Robert, Vero Beach A: It’s good to see a layer of mulch in the landscape.