Recipe: Homemade Play-Doh

Instructables shows how to make your own non-toxic playdough (aka Play-Doh). While I've seen the recipe a few times, I'm still a bit hesitant. Not for any good reason, either. I just associate Play-Doh with that smell...and I don't know if it'll be the same if I make it. That said, we'll try it when we're ready :-)

Ingredient
2 cups flour
2 cups warm water
1 cup salt
2 Tablespoons vegetable oil
1 Tablespoon cream of tartar (optional for improved elasticity)

food coloring
scented oils

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 clumps in the center, remove the pan from heat and allow the dough to cool enough to handle.

Turn the dough out onto a clean counter or silicone mat and knead vigorously until it becomes silky smooth. Divide the dough into balls for coloring.

Make a divot in the center of the ball and drop some food coloring in. Fold the dough over, working the food color through the body of the playdough, but try to keep the raw dye away from your hands and the counter. Use gloves or plastic wrap to keep your hands clean.

Work the dye through, adding more as needed to achieve your chosen color.

When you're done, store it in an air tight container. If it begins to dry out, knead a bit of water in to soften the dough back up.