If you are keen to do some modelling and to make a decoration which will last a little longer than paper or card crafts, try making salt dough models. This is much like playing with playdough, only you get to keep the final product!
Age group: 2 years +
Table of Contents
What you need:
- 1 cup flour
- 1 cup salt
- 1/2 cup water
- Bowl
- Wooden spoon
What to do:
- Gradually add the water to the combined dry ingredients until you have a stiff dough.
- Add more flour or water depending on the consistency. You want it to be smooth and easily shaped and not sticky!
- Knead the dough until it’s smooth and let it stand for about thirty minutes before you use it for crafts.
NOW USE YOUR IMAGINATION!
- Make bugs, fruit, vegetables, leaves, bread-like plaits, napkin rings, candle holders, use cookie cutters to make any shape you like! You can make them as elaborate or as simple as you want.
- When the models are ready, bake them until dry in a very low oven. The temperature should not be higher than 100 degrees C, gas mark 1/4 to 1/2 Bake for about 45 minutes to 1 hour.
- Once the model is dry, it can be painted with poster or acrylic paints. To seal it and give it shine you could add a thin layer of varnish or mod podge or cold glue once the paint has dried.
I am a preschool and primary school teacher and mum to 3 children. I have been involved in education since 1997 and have trained in a variety of educational specialist areas. It is with this expertise that I write articles to help parents and educators provide quality learning experiences for the children in their care.
