I make lots of play-dough for David to play with–it’s cheaper than buying it at the store and it’s safe to eat (a very important point if you have orally-fixated children like I do). I got this recipe from my husband’s mom, who got it when she was in MoPS 30 years ago. It’s the best recipe EVER because it lasts forever (ok, not forever by scientific standards, but definitely forever by toddler standards), it keeps it’s color well, and it does everything a good play-dough should do: molds well, cuts well, and comes out of clothes easily. Enjoy!

Salt-Flour Play Dough

1 cup flour
1/2 cup salt
2 Tablespoons cream of tartar
1 tablespoon oil
1 cup water
*optional* food coloring and flavoring (vanilla extract, peppermint extract, and cinnamon are some of my favorites)

Add food coloring to the water–you’ll need several drops for a nice rich color. Put all ingredients into a pan. Stir and cook over low heat until a ball forms. Let your play-dough cool on a sheet of wax paper before playing or storing. Store in a ziploc bag.