Homemade Play-doh

My kids LOVE playdoh they have a big bin full of fun playdoh stuff. I like to pull it out in the afternoon on a Saturday. They play with it off on and till dinner then we clean it up! I like to make our own play-doh for a couple of reasons. #1 it's pretty simple and quick to make. #2 It's cheap and I don't feel bad sweeping it up and throwing it away. #3 I can always make more! Here is the recipe I use most often

2 cups flour

2 cups warm water

1 cup salt

2 Tablespoons vegetable oil

1 Tablespoon cream of tartar (optional for improved elasticity)

Mix all of the ingredients together, and stir over low heat. The dough will begin to thicken until it resembles mashed potatoes.

When the dough pulls away from the sides and can form a ball. remove the pan from heat and allow the dough to cool enough to handle.

 Repeat process for other colors store in airtight containers. makes about 2-3 play-doh containers.

If you want a no-cook recipe here's one but it's not as good as the one above. I actually found a clump of it in one of the toys and it was moldy and smelled bad!! so if you use it make sure you get it  cleaned out of all the toys!

1 c. water
3 c. flour
1 1/2 c. salt
1/4 c. oil
Food coloring

Combine ingredients in bowl and mix with spoon till combined, then use your hands to knead it well. Add more flour if mixture is too sticky. The kids can help with this one but until the food coloring is completely dissolved it may stain. This one makes about 2 play-doh containers worth.