So, in doing some research about playdough, and if it’s really okay for little ones, I discovered that its original intent was for wallpaper cleaner, and it has borax in it…not too healthy for small hands to handle.

So, I decided to check out a lot of different recipes, and came up with this one that seems to be a good fit for playdough that’s soft and pliable, and can be stored in a Zip-loc bag. We really do love using soft playdough with bright vibrant colors!

HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED:

2 cups of organic flour

1 1/4 cups of water

3/4 cup of salt

2 Tablespoons of corn starch

2 Tablespoons of baby oil

1/2 teaspoon of glycerine (more if needed – use drops for additional amounts)

Gel food colors (colors of your choice)

HERE’S WHAT YOU DO:

In a large saucepan combine the flour, salt, corn starch and stir to blend.  Add the water and oil, and the food coloring of choice, and stir into the flour mixture.  Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the dough begins to thicken.  When it starts to form a ball in the pan, turn off the heat and remove the dough to waxed paper to cool.  When the playdough cools a bit, knead the play dough for about 1 minute to completely mix, and smooth.  If the dough seems sticky, add a little flour, and work into the dough. Repeat this recipe for all desired colors.  When play dough has completely cooled, massage glycerine into dough, place dough in a ziplock bag, and keep in a cool dry location.   Playdough may be used for up to three months.

NOTE:  Amount of food coloring used will depend on the desired shade.  If you want pastel colors, start with a drop or two in the saucepan.  However; dough will be lighter than the color in the gel package.  You’ll need to add more gel color for brighter colors.  Play dough is ready to use once it’s cooled and kneaded smooth.

If you want white play dough, don’t add food coloring to the mixture, just cook the mixture until it thickens, and follow the rest of the directions.

You can also add glitter to the dough if you like, just add it when you add the food coloring or add it to the white play-dough when you add the water and oil.