How to Make Play dough

Play dough is that wonderful modelling compound used by many of us growing up to create wonderful art that occupied hours of our time. It is sold under the commercial name of Play-Doh, however a natural and non-toxic home made version can be made easily and effectively.

Feel free to add colours and scents if you would like to make the experience as exciting as possible.

Things Required:

flour: 2 cups
warm water: 2 cups
salt: 1 cup
vegetable oil: 2 tablespoons
cream of tartar: 1 tablespoon adds elasticity
Optional: food colouring and essential oils (for colour and scent respectively)

Instructions

  • 1

    Heat and Stir

    Mix the flour, salt, oil and cream of tartar in a large pot over low heat. Slowly add the water to the mixture, stirring it well. Stir this mixture consistently until it begins to clump together. You must stir the dough until it becomes stiff in consistency.

  • 2

    Remove and Cool

    Once the dough is stiff, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool. Once it is cold enough to handle comfortably, remove it from the pot and put it into either a baking dish with wax paper or a large plate.

    Note: If the dough has a sticky consistency, that is not what we are looking for. Turn your stove onto low heat once again and continue cooking the play dough until it becomes dry and stiff.

  • 3

    Knead

    Now that you have your dough in a tray or plate, knead it using your hands until it reaches a smooth consistency.

  • 4

    Colour and Scent (Optional)

    You can now divide your dough and add food colouring and essential oils as you see fit. Experiment with your kids favourite colours and scents to create an enjoyable experience.

    To add colour and scent, use your thumb to create a dent in the dough and then add drops to the dough. Knead the dough again until the colour is evenly spread.

    Repeat as required for different colours.

  • 5

    Play Time

    Your kids can now go buck with the play dough. It is edible, so that shouldn't have to worry you.

    In terms of storage, use air tight plastic containers and store in the refrigerator.

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