- 1). Weigh beef tallow and add to the pot, then heat to a low boil. You'll need a total weight to measure other ingredients. Other types of tallow can by used, but animal fat has far more stearin content than vegetable fats. Stir occasionally until the fat is completely melted.
- 2). Add 3 oz. of slaked lime per 1 1/4 lbs. of tallow. Stir until mixed thoroughly and continue to heat gently until it thickens into lime soap.
- 3). Add 4 oz. of sulfuric acid to the mix, again per 1 1/4 lbs. of tallow. Be very careful with sulfuric acid and be sure to wear eye and hand protection. Stir gently and continuously until the fat separates from the tallow and rises to the top. Turn off the heat.
- 4). Once the stearin has cooled, it will be a solid cake floating on the liquid underneath. Carefully remove from pot.
- 5). Place the stearin cake into another pan and melt over low heat. Stir gently until all moisture has been removed.
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