Lots of great advice being put forward here, thanks to all that have had some input. I think i'v found a good consistency with my lathers which is what some have described as nearing whipped cream, like a thick foam that holds its shape, i have added a bit more water to my normal mix and found that this solves the problem of the lather drying out too quickly.

Morty, thanks for the information on the scuttle,maybe sometime down the track i might try one out, it is quite an interesting piece of art.

I still find that lathering on my face provides a better result at the moment but i have tried using a bowl a few more times and just cant seem to get the consistency that i want. Anyone else having the same problem or do i just need to stick at it?