Suds-sational

Gibsonia resident Laura Bogacz blends creativity and science to create vibrant, small-batch soaps that turn an everyday ritual into something special.

For Laura Bogacz, soap is more than a necessity—it’s a canvas.

The founder and maker behind Pittsburgh Artisanal Soap Co., LLC, Bogacz lives in Gibsonia with her husband, Michael, and brings a lifelong love of creativity to every bar she makes. A former teacher and stay-at-home mom, she found an unexpected artistic outlet in soapmaking, where chemistry and creativity come together in colorful, but functional works of art.

“I was initially drawn to soapmaking out of curiosity and a desire to create something both beautiful and useful,” says Bogacz. “What began as an experiment quickly turned into a passion.”

That passion grew as she immersed herself in the craft, learning through hands-on experience, research and experimentation. Her background in education shaped her approach, giving her an appreciation for understanding both the artistic and scientific sides of the process. Influenced by nature and fine art—particularly papermaking techniques—Bogacz’s soaps are known for their rich colors, layered textures and fluid designs.

Nature is her greatest inspiration. Seasonal color palettes, organic movement, and the way colors interact naturally all play a role in shaping each batch. While she begins with a plan, she leaves room for spontaneity. “Some of the most beautiful results happen when the soap takes on a life of its own,” she says.

Fragrance is equally important. Bogacz favors complex fragrance oils and designs her collections around the seasons, keeping offerings fresh and always changing. While customer favorites shift throughout the year, the personal standout that remains is an autumn fig soap featuring a peacock swirl—her favorite design technique.

From concept to finished bar, the process takes time. Cold-process soapmaking requires precision, intuition and patience, with each batch curing for six weeks before it’s ready to be used. “It’s a slow process, but that time is what creates a truly high-quality bar,” says Bogacz.

The response from customers has been rewarding. Hearing that her soaps brighten someone’s day or pampers their skin is what continues to drive her hard work. Looking ahead, Bogacz plans to continue experimenting with new products and seasonal fragrances, allowing her brand to grow organically.

“Sharing my art through soap is deeply personal,” she says. “It’s a way to connect creativity with everyday life—and that’s incredibly fulfilling.”