Established in 2011 Orkney Star Island Soap’s ongoing success is based on principles of outstanding quality, exceedingly good value for money and a caring approach to all who call this planet home.
Simone admits, “I’m passionate about using and making real soap. Whether you’ve visited the Orkney isles or not, soaps provide a perfect way of bringing a slice of Orkney direct to you. Soap is always great to give as a gift………….to others and to yourself.”
“My cold-processed soaps, shampoos and traditionally hand-made balms are created using carefully blended recipes packed with nourishing oils and butters to help care for skin, hair and scalp.”
“Everything, from ingredients to methods is certified by Chartered Chemist Scott Grainger to comply with EU legislation for cosmetic products.” She adds, “All products are tested by willing humans before they go out for sale.”
Soaps and balms are made in small batches from Simone’s home on the beautiful island of Stronsay. The wide-open landscape and surrounding sea provide her with sources of inspiration which are reflected in her soaps and the yarns that she spins. Simone is a member of The Stronsay Craft Trail https://www.facebook.com/Stronsay.Craft.Trail/ & http://visitstronsay.com/things-to-do/arts-crafts/ and welcomes visitors by appointment to her soap kitchen throughout the year.
When she’s not soap-making her other passion is hand spinning. Simone explains, “I call my yarns ethical because I use local fleeces, especially those provided by the native, primitive North Ronaldsay rare-breed seaweed-eating sheep.”
When asked if her business is environmentally friendly she replies, “I try to be a part of the solution in what I do and not add to the problem.” Bars of soap [tick], responsibly sourced ingredients [tick], organic wherever cost permits [tick], natural exfoliants [ tick], natural local yarns [tick], recyclable packaging [tick], low carbon process for making all my products [tick].
If you love soaps that are natural and gentle, nourish body and soul and smell fantastic… If you love yarns that are natural, colourful, sometimes quirky and produced from local, sustainable sources. … then look no further, this is the place for you.