Who doesn't love playdough? It's just plain fun - plus the rolling, kneading, shaping, and sculpting are great for cognitive development, motor skills, and artistic and creative growth.
You won't believe how easy it is to make playdough at home!
Notes
The salt in the dough keeps it from rotting. The cream of tartar also acts as a preservative as well as giving the dough its smooth, elastic texture. This dough will last for at least a week if you keep it wrapped up when not in use.
Time Needed
About 10 minutes
Supplies Needed
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup table salt
1 tsp cream of tartar
2 cups cold water (warm/hot will cause lumps)
1 tbsp vegetable oil
A few drops of food coloring (optional)
Several drops of essential oils (optional)
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, whisk together the flour, salt, and cream of tartar.
- Add the water, vegetable oil, and food coloring to the pan. Whisk until smooth.
- Place the pan over medium heat. Stir continuously with a silicon spatula or wooden spoon. The mixture will start coagulating into lumps at first. Take care to keep scraping the bottom so it does not scorch. Keep stirring until the mixture just begins to stick together. Do not overcook or the dough will be dry.
- Transfer the dough to a clean countertop or piece of parchment paper. When it is cool enough to touch, knead the dough until it is smooth.
- If using essential oils, knead it in at this point.
- Now the dough is ready to enjoy! When done playing, wrap tightly in plastic wrap to keep it from drying out.
