homemade Play-doh

1 cup flour

1/2 cup salt

1 cup water

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

3 tablespoons cream of tartar

Assorted Food Coloring

Uncolored play dough: In a large saucepan over medium heat, mix the ingredients together with a wooden spoon. Stir constantly until the mixture forms a ball. Pour the play dough ball out onto a clean work surface and knead for two to three minutes. The ball will be hot at first so be careful when you start the kneading process. Allow the play dough to cool completely. Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container. The play dough should last several weeks with proper storage.

Colored Play dough: To produce pastel colored play dough, use the same basic play dough recipe but add the color medium before the cooking process. To produce bright, vivid colored play dough, add the color medium during the kneading process. Liquid food coloring, frosting paste or powdered tempera paint work well in this basic recipe.