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The path to making natural soaps & what inspires!
Meet the maker - Nicky
What began as a spark of curiosity quickly grew into a deep fascination with the process of cold process soap making. There was something truly captivating about it — the balance of science and creativity, tradition and intention. Watching natural ingredients transform into something both beautiful and practical felt almost alchemical, and it wasn’t long before I felt inspired to create my own products from scratch.
Developing CDNSC's recipe became a slow, rewarding journey — one rooted in patience, learning, and a desire to craft something meaningful. I spent over two years experimenting with countless combinations of oils, butters, essential oils, and natural additives. Each batch taught me something new — about texture, lather, longevity, and how different ingredients interact on the skin.
I carefully selected each component not just for its function, but for how it makes you feel. From the nourishing richness of shea and cocoa butter to the gently cleansing properties of olive and coconut oils, every choice was made with intention. Along the way, I found not just a recipe, but a rhythm — a quiet ritual that connects us to the land, to ourselves, and to those who use our soaps.
Each bar is a reflection of that journey — handcrafted with care, grounded in nature, and made to bring a little more beauty and meaning into the everyday.
A quick note of thanks!
I would like to take a moment to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has supported me on this soapmaking journey. From those early batches to the finished bars you see today, your encouragement has meant the world.
Whether you tested out new soaps, offered honest feedback, shared your favourites with friends, or simply cheered me on—you’ve been such an important part of this process. Your kind words, suggestions, and support helped shape and refine every recipe, scent, and idea. It’s been a learning curve filled with trial and error, and I truly couldn’t have done it without you.
Thank you for believing in what I’m creating and for helping me turn a passion into something real. Every bar of soap carries a little bit of that shared journey, and I’m so grateful to have had you along the way.
We all need Inspiration
The Mourne Mountains and the County Down coast are more than just a backdrop to our lives — they’re at the very heart of our soap making. Their wild beauty, changing light, and timeless stillness inspire everything we create. From the fresh, herbal scents carried on the mountain breeze to the earthy tones of moss, stone, and heather, nature here offers a richness that speaks to the senses.
Each element of this landscape — the crashing waves along the coast, the golden gorse on the hillsides, the quiet hush of pine forests — has shaped our approach to soap making. We draw on its colours, textures, and natural ingredients, but also its spirit: grounding, revitalising, and the unspoiled.
Through our soaps, we aim to capture a little piece of that world — something that brings you closer to the land we love with every use.
That's why we choose to name our soaps after areas in the Mourne Mountains and Mourne area because these landscapes hold deep personal and sensory significance—they’re not just places, but sources of inspiration. Each name—Maggie’s Leap, The Black Stairs, Doan Sunset, Shelter Stone, Deer’s Meadow, and Mountain Heath—evokes a distinct mood, scent, or texture that connects our soaps to the natural world they honour.
These names root our creations in a real and beloved place, bringing a sense of storytelling and authenticity to every bar. By naming them after iconic spots in the Mournes, we celebrate the rugged beauty, folklore, and quiet magic of the region—transforming a simple soap into a sensory journey through County Down.
Each soap becomes a tribute:
- Maggie’s Leap captures drama and freshness.
- The Black Stairs reflects something earthy, dark, and mysterious.
- Doan Sunset offers warmth and calm like a golden evening view.
- Shelter Stone gives a sense of grounding and protection.
- Deer’s Meadow brings softness and serenity.
- Mountain Heath evokes wild air and lavender-strewn hillsides.
Together, they form a collection that’s both personal and poetic—anchored in place, but made to travel.
Our handmade resin Soap Rests
The inspiration for our handmade resin soap rests came when we couldn't find anything beautiful enough to showcase our soaps. So we decided to create our own little pieces of art that honour the natural world that inspires everything we make. Each soap rest is unique and lovingly made with tiny treasures collected from the County Down coast and countryside.
Smoothed sea glass tumbled by the waves
Sea shells worn by time
Dried wildflowers gathered in summer
Exfolating Scrubby Buddy & Cotton Wash Buddy
Our handmade Scrubby Buddy and Cotton Wash Buddy are the perfect companions to our natural soap. The Scrubby Buddy, crocheted with textured polyester, offers gentle exfoliation, while the soft Cotton Wash Buddy is ideal for sensitive skin and daily use. Both can be preloaded with slices of our handmade soap - making them ready to lather. Just wet, wash and hang to dry. Reusable, washable, and perfect for gifting or a low-waste self-care treat.
Exfoliating Scrubby Buddy - hand crocheted with durable polyester yarn
Soap slices (ends) four go into our pre-loaded Buddy's
Cotton Wash Buddy - hand crocheted with 100% cotton yarn
Fuzzy Felts Shower Bars
At County Down Natural Soap Company, we're always blending tradition, creativity and nature. Our Fuzzy Felts Shower Bar is a truly special creation - a luxurious cold process soap wrapped in handcrafted wet felted Merino Wool. BUT WHY FELT SOAP?
Natural Exfoliation
The wool acts like a gentle washcloth, helping to exfoliate the skin.
Longer Lasting
Felted wool helps your soap last longer by allowing it to dry between uses.
No Slipping or slidding
The soft, textured wool covering makes your soap easier to grip.
Magnetic Soap Holders
We've also sourced brilliant little Magnetic Soap Holders - a simple, stylish way to keep your soap high and dry.
Keeps your soap from going soggy
No drilling - just a strong suction cup or adhesive base