From a boutique in historic Troy, T&J Handcrafted Soap makes small-batch artisan cold-process soaps completely from scratch, along with complementary body-care goods and hand-poured soy candles. Theresa Van Duyne began making soap nearly two decades ago and opened the shop 14 years ago, bringing her background in fine art and high-school art education to bars that pair playful designs with carefully chosen materials. The shop also showcases handcrafted goods by local artists and regularly creates soaps with locally made beer, wine, and tea.
Soul SoapSoul Soap is Alex’s Larchmont, New York small business, founded around the belief that commerce can strengthen a community. Its handcrafted bars carry original, haiku-style messages intended to create a moment of reflection, while at least 5% of production is directed to local charity.
SoapyFluffsSoapyFluffs makes grass-fed tallow soaps and other small-batch body-care goods by hand in Hamilton, Ohio. Each bar is hand-poured, cut and cured for at least two weeks, using a traditional process the company chose after finding commercial soaps too drying and irritating. The mission extends beyond the studio: 3% of every order supports Wolf Creek Habitat & Rescue, a USDA-licensed wolf sanctuary in Brookville, Indiana.HAMILTON, OH
living simply soapA Brown family business in Tipp City, Living Simply Soap handmakes cold-process soaps and skin-care products rooted in Tanya Brown’s 2004 homemade-soap experiment. After developing its formulas with family and friends, the company introduced its soaps at the local farmers market in 2007 and opened a shop in a historic downtown building in 2011. Its olive-oil-based soaps retain conditioning glycerin and are made without chemical additives, reflecting the family’s old-fashioned, make-it-yourself approach.TIPP CITY, OH
Becky’s Buckeye NaturalsFrom Troy, Ohio, Becky’s Buckeye Naturals makes handmade skincare and body-care products in small batches using natural ingredients, including locally sourced materials whenever possible. The shop is especially distinctive for its solid shampoo bars and simple Bastille soap, made with saponified oils, shea butter, and essential oils. Its products are sold across the United States and at area farmers markets.