Looking for a fun, low-cost activity to keep the kids entertained this summer? Making your own natural playdough is a brilliant way to spend a rainy afternoon – and it’s surprisingly simple, too! With just a few basic kitchen ingredients and some creative natural colourings, you’ll have soft, squishy dough in no time – and peace of mind knowing exactly what’s in it.
This is the same playdough I make at home – easy, non-toxic and endlessly customisable. Whether your little ones love messy play, imaginative creations or just the feel of something squidgy in their hands, this is a winner.
Why Make Your Own Playdough? Homemade playdough is:
• Free from artificial colours or preservatives
• Gentle on skin (great for little hands with sensitivities)
• Customisable with scents and colours from your spice rack
• Budget-friendly
• And best of all – it keeps them busy for hours!
What You’ll Need
• 2 cups plain flour
• ½ cup salt
• 2 tablespoons cream of tartar
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Up to 1½ cups boiling water (add gradually)
• A few drops of glycerine (optional, for extra shine and softness)
• Natural colouring (see below) or food colouring.
Natural Colouring Ideas
You don’t need food colouring to make beautiful dough but they’re also suitable for this recipe if that’s all you have. Try these natural alternatives:
Yellow – Turmeric
Orange – Ground ginger + turmeric
Red – Paprika, Cranberry powder
Pink/Purple – Beetroot powder
Brown – Cocoa or cinnamon
Green – Spirulina powder
Black/Grey – Activated charcoal
Tip: Add a little at a time and mix well – natural powders can be strong!
How to Make It
1. Boil your water and set aside in a jug to cool slightly while you measure out the rest of the ingredients.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, cream of tartar and your chosen natural colour powder. NB: if you’re using food colouring, add your colouring to your water.
3. Gradually add just enough the boiling water to form a dough, mixing with a spoon as the water will still be hot.
4. Allow the dough to cool down. Once it’s cool enough to handle, add your oil and knead the dough vigorously until smooth and until all of the stickiness has gone. This is the most important part of the process so stick with it until it’s a perfect consistency.
5. Add a few drops of glycerine if you like – it makes the dough silkier and shinier.
6. Store in an airtight container or in a sealed plastic bag. It’ll keep for up to a month if well sealed.
Play Ideas
• Nature stamps – Press in leaves, shells, or flowers for natural patterns.
• Mini bakery – Add cinnamon or cocoa for a delicious scent and make “biscuits” and “buns.”
• Colour mixing – Let older kids experiment by blending different coloured doughs.
• Sensory trays – Pair with scoops, cutters and loose parts for endless open-ended play.
A Few Notes
• Wear an apron – turmeric, beetroot and paprika can stain.
• If the dough is sticky, add more flour; if it’s too dry, add a splash more hot water.
• Always supervise younger children – especially when using small parts or powders.
Don’t forget to tag us in social media so we can see all your lovely creations!
