Trying to keep all the Picklebums entertained on a day when it is either too hot or too wet to go outside (and we’ve had both since new years!) isn’t always easy. But sometimes I forget the joy of simple things…
It had been so long since we’d made playdough, and if I remember rightly that might have had something to do with Muski eating a large amount of play dough last time. Not to mention sticking it in some rather inconvenient places and the mess… ah yes the mess. But I am getting over myself when it comes to mess (I do have a fancy new vac these days and that helps) and well everyone is older and wiser and more annoying…. So we made playdough.
I went with the quick and easy microwave recipe.
- 2 cups of flour
- 1 cup of salt
- 4 tbsp of cream of tar tar
- 2 tbsp of oil
- 2 cups of water
- colouring - food dye or paint.
- In a large microwave safe container mix all the ingredients together.
- Zap it in the microwave on a medium/high setting for around 2 minutes.
- Stir the mixture well and pop it back in for another minute.
- Check to see if the mixture is starting to come together to form a dough.
- When you notice the dough coming together mix it together well, then pinch a bit between your fingers (careful – it’s hot) if it’s still sticky, stir it again and pop in back in for another 30 seconds.
- Keep zapping and stirring until your dough is smooth and not sticky or wet.
- Allow to cool a little them dump it out for a quick knead.
This makes enough for my three to have a good lump each. Half this recipe is probably enough for two and more than enough for one.
It’s not as lovely and smooth as the cooked on the stove dough, but it’s a lot less stirring. And don’t worry leave the microwave container to soak in some warm water and the horrible looking mess washes off easily.
Even the big girls played for ages. See sometimes it is the old, tried and true simple things that are often the best!
If your kids love play dough as much as mine, then check out the Homemade Play Dough Recipe book (affiliate link – I get a percentage of sales if you buy via this link). It’s full of fabulous, doable, home made play dough recipes and ideas.
pixie says
my girls love play dough too.another easy way to make it, is to use boiling water instead of cooking it…..sounds horrid.but it works!!
Estelle says
You’re right about the mess. Picking it out from between decking boards can be tedious to say the least. But they do love it. Thanks for reminding me!
Stitch Sista says
We had the homemade playdough out just this morning! So much nicer than the store bought.
I actually don’t find it that messy, but I do keep the kids confined to the table!
Nic says
Oh playdough is much loved here too. They have great accessories these days too.
Fe says
Mine are a bit old for playdough now… although they used to love my home-made stuff. They loved it too much actually. Boo would sneakily eat it!!! Despite all the salt! (or perhaps because of all the salt!)
Secret Mom Thoughts says
Looks like fun. You are a good mum. I hate play dough because of the mess.
Nicole says
Just made this for the first time . PERFECT. Too easy ,bored kids now using their imagination and having fun . Wish I knew of your site 5 years ago, would have helped my sanity. It’s a great site that I read and use often . Well done !
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