Hello!
I'm Rachael. The face and hands behind Colliery Soap Studio, based in Sacriston, Durham.
Working in the construction industry as a mechanical design engineer and a low carbon consultant, sustainability has always been a huge part of my life. Outside of 'big picture' industrial buildings, and with a niggling unease about my own carbon footprint at home, I wondered how I could further contribute to positive change.
The plastic in our bathroom bothered me and I began making soap, shampoo bars and solid lotion bars for personal use around six years ago.
With the support of Paul, my husband, I took the leap, had my creations safety assessed by a cosmetic chemist and set up Colliery Soap Studio, with the main aim of making plastic-free living FUN.
Now a new mam to Rosa and Carter, juggling motherhood, running Colliery Soap Studio and still working as an engineer three days a week, I'm embracing the chaos and all the rewarding hats I wear every day.
About us
If you're not already familiar with us, Colliery Soap Studio was formally established in 2020 and all of our products are traditionally handmade in Durham in the North East of England.
Our proprietary soap formulations have been designed and are made entirely from scratch by us, which gives us maximum control over all of the properties of our soaps, as well as the ability to provide bespoke products if required.
We are a cruelty-free company, most of our products are vegan, we don't use palm oil in any of our products and all of our packaging is plastic-free too!