Play Clay

This is a modeling dough for children that can also be used to make Christmas ornaments. I found this one in a newpaper. I haven't tried it but it looks like one that my daughter brought home and made when she was in school. After hers were hardened she got paint, glue and a variety of coloured glitter and decorated them.

• Ready In: 2 hrs 25 mins
• Yields: 1 batch

Ingredients

• 1⁄2 cup table salt (do not use rock or sea salt)
• 1⁄2 cup hot water
• 1⁄2 cup  cold water
• 1⁄2 cup cornstarch
• 2  drops  food coloring (optional)

Directions

1. Mix the cold water, food coloring (if desired) and the cornstarch until smooth Mix the salt and the hot water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
2. Add the cornstarch mixture to the boiling salt water and stir vigorously to prevent it from lumping up.
3. Cook over low heat stirring constantly until mixture is stiff.
4. Turn the mixture out onto a bread board.
5. When cool knead until smooth.
6. Use immediately or wrap in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container.
7. To make Christmas tree ornaments, roll out dough 1/4" thick and use cookie cutters to make a variety of shapes.
8. Using a toothpick, make a hole at the top of each one so that a string or wire can be inserted.
9. To harden models or ornaments either air dry them at room temperature for 3 days or bake at 200F for 2 hours.