MYO Modeling-Sculpting Clay

Modeling clay can be rather expensive, but here’s a simple, do it yourself recipe that you can whip together in no time in the comfort of your own kitchen using just 2 basic ingredients that you probably already have on hand . . .
Keep the kids busy for hours with this fun recipe. They’ll even enjoy helping you “measure” the ingredients into the pan.

You’ll Need:
2 cups cornstarch
2 cups baking soda
1 1/4 cups COLD water

In a medium sized saucepan, combine cornstarch and baking soda, mixing well, then slowly add COLD water, stirring constantly over medium heat. The mixture should be smooth in consistency. It is imperative that you use COLD water, as cornstarch only has the ability to thicken ONE time. If you use warm or hot water, your clay will NOT form.

Continue stirring constantly as the mixture thickens, resembling instant mashed potatoes or pureed squash.

Transfer the clay to a cutting board and cover with a damp towel, allow it to cool. Once it has cooled sufficiently, knead it to make the clay smooth. Divide it into balls and add several drops of food coloring to each ball to form the dough in colors.

Alternatively, you can make multiple batches and color the water just prior to adding it to the saucepan.

This clay can be shaped and dried in the oven (200F) for a couple hours, depending on the creation! Like all sculpting clay, this has a tendency to stain the hands. It’s helpful to have children apply a very thin coating of coconut oil, baby oil or olive oil to their hands prior to playing to avoid staining.

© Can Stock Photo Inc. / ilona75