This project is so simple, quick, and endlessly charming that it’s bound to become a repeat DIY. It’s also a fantastic entry point for beginners just dipping their toes into soap-making.
Get more details about this project
What you need
1 block of clear melt and pour glycerin soap base
1 small toy goldfish (must be non-toxic and soap-safe or gold fish soap mold
1 clear cellophane bag or small treat bag
1 rubber band or twist tie
Microwave-safe measuring cup or pouring jug
Soap fragrance (optional – think “ocean breeze” or “cucumber melon”)
Blue soap colorant or liquid food coloring (optional – a tiny drop goes a long way)
A wooden skewer or chopstick for stirring
Ribbon or string for gift presentation
Instructions
Step 1: Cut and Melt the Soap Base
Chop the clear glycerin soap base into small cubes for even melting. Place them in your microwave-safe jug and melt in short bursts—about 20 seconds at a time—stirring between each burst until fully liquid.
Tip: Don’t overheat, or the soap will cloud and bubble.
Step 2: Add Color & Fragrance (Optional)
Add just a drop or two of colorant and your chosen fragrance. Stir gently with a skewer to avoid air bubbles.
A light tint of blue gives it that realistic “water in a bag” look, but keep it transparent.
Step 3: Place the Toy Fish
Drop your toy goldfish into the bottom of your clear bag, positioning it in the center.
Step 4: Pour the Soap
Carefully pour the melted soap into the bag over the fish, filling about ¾ full to give it that sloshy, bagged-pet-store-fish appearance.
Hold the bag upright in a cup or jar to keep it stable while pouring.
Step 5: Secure the Bag
Once the soap cools slightly but is still liquid, twist the top of the bag and secure it tightly with a rubber band or twist tie. Let it sit undisturbed until fully hardened—usually about 1–2 hours at room temperature.
Step 6: Gift or Display
Once the soap has cooled and set, tie a ribbon or string around the rubber band for a cute finishing touch. Add a tag that says “Don’t feed me!” or “I’m soap, not sushi!”
Gifting Ideas:
- Kids’ birthday party favors
- Gag gift for white elephant parties
- Prank gift in a gift basket
- Bathtime fun surprise for grandkids
- Craft stall novelty sale items
Storage Tips:
Store in a cool, dry place until use. If you’re gifting during hot months, consider keeping it in the fridge to prevent premature melting.
We got our fish from Orientel Traders.
Okay I’ve got to know where in the world you got the fish… I Love this idea… my son is having a “fishing” birthday party soon and this would be a cool goodie for the goodie bags…
Please email me @ [email protected]
aaahhhmazing…good job!
i actually think it would be hummorous to have the fish upsidedown thats what i tend on doing lol either way i think its cute =)
great Idea
koolio
I thought it was an actual fish in the soap at first! I had to read to figure it out this time, I usually try and figure it out by the picture but not this time
Wow! for a second there i thought that was a real fish!!! lol!!! i defently get to this craft!!!
i like thes site coz it is very cool and i will try to do all of thes things
hi i dont do these rewiews alot but i tryied this the other day and i just thought that this was the best craft ever!it is perfect for little loot-bags for partys!
i would reylly sugest this because it is fun,cheap,and EASY!
i just thought that this was a great craft. i really liked it because i could put this coolsoap/toy in a little party lootbag. it is just great!
very cute!
This is sooo cool! Great gift idea.
Very cool. I’m going to try this very soon!