Part of the challenge is the cut of the soap. I had two choices - I could use a slab mold which would spread the soap over a greater surface area or use a loaf mold. Instead of cutting the bars across the mold (using my nifty soap cutter) the loaf would be cut horizontally in half and then cut into bars. This would show the Taiwan Swirl on the top layer and on the bottom layer. I must be somewhat challenged in this area as it took me some time to figure it out. .
The recipe used a higher percentage of olive oil than what I usually use along with some coconut, palm and rice bran oils. I also had some new micas to work with and was pleased with the resulting colors.
My first batch ended up a little thicker than it should have (I probably stick blended a bit too much) so the colors didn't get quite deep enough in the mold. I really like the color choice of purple and orange and the essential oil blend of patchouli, orange and mint is really nice. I ended up cutting this soap into regular bars with the cutter for a different look.
Thank you again Amy for challenging us!