In rural Montana we have very hard water. I could only get a decent lather if I used distilled water until I tried a Fine Accoutrements soap. I happened to buy Fine's lathering bowl at the same time I purchased the soap, and I can attest that the bowl makes all the difference. My other soaps, mostly tallow with one vegetarian, all produce amazing lather with hard tap water and the Fine bowl. Better and faster than when using distilled water and an apothecary mug. The bowl is rather large but very easy to use and allows the brush to be laid horizontal on the handle so it does not slip into the suds. Highly recommend both Fine products.