How to Make Salt-Free Dough for Your Kids' Craft Projects

I know you’ve had those moments when your child comes home from school, eager to share that they need a recipe for salt dough to bring to school. But your hands have had enough of the dry, itchy sensation that comes from working with traditional salt dough. So, let's explore a delightful, moisture-rich alternative that is perfect for crafting with kids - no salt required!

Better Than Salt Dough

This recipe is not only a healthier option for your hands, but it also produces a clay-like dough that's perfect for crafting and decorating. No need to worry about the salt feeling that leaves your hands dry and itchy. Give it a try, and enjoy a fun crafting session with your kids.

Ingredients

1/2 cup cornstarch 1 cup baking soda 3/4 cup water Optional: food coloring Cookie cutters Embossed rolling pins (optional) Craft paint (optional) Bamboo skewer or straw (for making holes in ornaments) Parchment paper and silicone mat (for baking)

Instructions

Combine 1/2 cup cornstarch, 1 cup baking soda, and 3/4 cup water in a medium-sized pot. Stir the mixture over medium heat until it starts to thicken, approximately after a couple of minutes. It should resemble the consistency of mashed potatoes. Once the mixture has thickened, remove the pot from the heat and spoon the dough into a bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap to keep it moist. Allow the dough to cool completely. Once cooled, knead the dough on a smooth surface, such as a silicone mat, until it becomes smooth and silky. If it feels too sticky, add more cornstarch to the mixture. Once the dough is cool and workable, you can create different shapes using cookie cutters. For added fun, roll out the clay to 1/4 inch thick on your silicone mat, lightly dusted with cornstarch, and cut out various shapes. To create hanging ornaments, use a bamboo skewer or a straw to make a hole at the top of the shape. This hole will be perfect for adding ribbon later. If you prefer, you can let the decorations air dry overnight in a warm place. Alternatively, you can use your oven to dry them quickly. Preheat the oven to 175 degrees F (80 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly dust it with cornstarch if needed. Place the shapes on the baking sheet and let them bake for about an hour, turning them over halfway through to ensure they dry evenly.

Conclusion

This no-salt dough recipe is a fantastic alternative for any crafting project. It’s easy to prepare, mess-free, and safe for kids. Plus, the clay-like texture makes it perfect for shaping and decorating. So, the next time your child asks for salt dough, surprise them with this delicious, hands-friendly recipe! Have fun crafting!