How to Make Play Dough

Who doesn't love play dough? When your kids are little it's some of the best entertainment ever. My problem always was that there was just not enough play dough in those little cans to go around. Then the kids would somehow manage to leave it uncovered, and it was hard as a rock the next day. It was literally like throwing money away. That is until I found a DIY play dough recipe where I could make it in bulk. I also found that it keeps far longer than the store bought variety, is fun to make, and the kids love adding their own colors. Eureka!

We now use play dough only occasionally for a school project, but it is still one of my favorite things to do. Our son's volcano shown above is slowly hardening and will be ready for the addition of the lava for his science experiment very soon. Here's what you need for the basic play dough:

2 cups flour

1 cup salt (any kind will do, I am using up old salt from my baking cabinet)

4 teaspoons cream of tartar

2 cups water

2 tablespoons salad oil

A few drops food color of your choice

Combine all ingredients, heat over medium heat stirring constantly until a soft, lumpy ball forms. It happens very quickly! Remove from heat, knead until dough is smooth. Dough can be stored in an air tight container, or frozen, thawed, and refrozen several times. 

Whip up a batch to give away at a birthday party with the recipe, or keep some in the freezer for impromptu play dates, or school projects. Kids are guaranteed to love it!

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