In Celebration of Play-Dough

There are two basic ways to make play-dough. Both are great activities to do with kids!

No-Cook Play-Dough:

1 1/4 cups flour
1/4 cup salt (4 tablespoons)
1/2 cup water
1-2 tablespoons flour (if needed)
Food coloring

In a bowl, add 1 1/4 cups flour and salt. Mix. Mix the water and some food coloring together. Place in the flour mixture. Mix together with a spoon (or your hands). If it is too sticky, add more flour. Store in a covered container or sealable plastic bag in the refrigerator.

Cooked Play-Dough:

1 cup flour
1 cup boiling water
2 tablespoons cream of tartar
1/2 cup salt
1 tablespoon oil
Food coloring

Mix and knead together. This play-dough is not sticky and does not dry out.

Tips When Making Play-Dough

• Wash your hands and make sure child's hands are clean before beginning a clay or dough project.
• If the dough is too sticky, knead in more flour, cornstarch, or baking soda.
• If dough becomes too dry, add a few drops of water.
• Keep extra dough covered or cover with a damp cloth while playing to keep it from drying out.

Additional Resources

To find more options for creating and using play-dough than you could ever wish for (including “coffee grounds” play-dough!), check out Recipe Goldmine.

For everything you might want to do with play-dough and activity ideas for children, visit the official Play-Doh® Web site.