How to Make Homemade Playdough (Easy Recipe + Fun Add-Ins!)

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Looking for an easy, kid-approved activity that keeps little hands busy for hours? This homemade playdough recipe is simple to make, budget-friendly, perfect for sensory play, and so much fun. With just a few pantry staples, you can create soft, squishy dough that lasts for weeks—and even customize it with colors, glitter, or scents!

Whether you’re tackling a rainy-day craft or setting up an afternoon of screen-free fun, this playdough is a must-have in every mom’s toolkit.

Homemade Play Dough Recipe

Ingredients:

2 cups plain flour
¾ cup salt
4 tsp cream of tartar
2 tbsp vegetable oil
2 cups lukewarm water
Optional: Kool-Aid packet(s), Jell-O, or food coloring for different colors and scent

Instructions:

In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and cream of tartar.
Stir in the vegetable oil and water. If using only one color, add it now.
Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until it forms a doughy ball.
Remove from heat and allow to cool.
Knead the dough on a clean surface until smooth.
Store in an airtight container or these reusable silicone storage bags to keep it soft for weeks (more like months!).

Tools:

A silicone mat for kneading
Playdough tools and cookie cutters for making fun shapes. We have one similar to this and my son loves the rolling pin.

Pro Tips:

Multiple Colors
Divide the dough into small batches to make multiple colors using different Kool-Aid packets or food coloring.

Imprint Games
Let kids press toy animals or dinosaurs into the dough to make footprints. Toy cars also make fun track marks!

Sensory Add-ins
Boost fine motor skills by pressing in:

Beads or buttons
Glitter
Essential oils
Sequins or confetti

Textural Playdough
Mix in materials like:

Coffee grounds (for a unique texture and earthy smell)
Sand
Shredded coconut

These add-ins give kids a whole new sensory experience.

Homemade playdough is one of those classic activities that never gets old and with a few common household ingredients, you’ll always be ready for a spontaneous play session. It’s great for young children (and parents!) and can easily become part of a themed learning day or sensory bin. Would also make a fun party favor!