There’s something deeply satisfying about making the most of what we have. On my small homestead, that often means finding new purposes for things others might discard. For example, when my dad smokes a brisket, there’s always plenty of trimmed fat left behind. Instead of letting it go to waste, I take that fat and transform it into something useful, tallow lotion.
The process begins with rendering, an ancient method used for centuries to purify fat. As the brisket fat melts down slowly, it releases its golden richness. Once the rendering is complete, it becomes something entirely new. Any trace of its savory past is removed, leaving behind a smooth, clean base that’s ideal for skincare.
Once the tallow is ready, the real fun begins. I take the cooled, solidified fat and whip it into a luxurious, airy lotion. It starts to feel like magic as the tallow transforms before my eyes. A few drops of essential oils turn the tallow into a silky, hydrating moisturizer. The result is rich yet gentle, providing deep nourishment for the skin. I find it amazing how something that was once destined for the trash can become a product that feels like a treasure.
Each jar of whipped tallow lotion carries a little piece of that transformation. It’s a reminder that old traditions still have a place in modern life. Resourcefulness can lead to beauty, and nothing goes to waste. When I smooth a bit of this lotion onto my skin, I’m reminded of the slow, steady process—of smoky brisket, slow afternoons, and the joy of making something from nothing. It’s a celebration of the unexpected and a nod to the past, all wrapped into one simple, nourishing product.
This lotion is more than just a moisturizer. It’s a story of sustainability, tradition, and the magic of repurposing. Each batch I make connects me to my homestead roots and the timeless practices that continue to shape my life today.
if you want to read about how i sold this lotion at the Liberty Makers Market, click here!