Classic Salt Dough & Air Dry Clay Recipes

I grew up in a household where nearly everything was “home made.” My parents would see something in a shop or on TV and if it interested them, they’d think - or often say aloud - “I coud do that.” and they did it.

Sometimes this wasn’t cool with my little self. I often yearned for store-bought branded items… But now I am so grateful to them for passing on a CAN DO lifestyle to me, modeling resourcefulness, ingenuity, and enthusiasm for creating a life one might want for themselves.

That’s a lofty introduction for a subject as humble as air-dry clay, but this is where it all starts! Not everything has to come from a big delivery company! Make some clay for yourself or your kiddos and get started on your own creative life!

1. Baking Soda & Cornstarch Air Dry Clay:

This recipe is favored for being inexpensive, easy to work with, and drying to a crisp white finish.

• Ingredients

  • 1 cup Cornstarch

  • 2 cups Baking Soda

  • 1.25 to 1.5 cups Water

• Instructions:

  1. Mix: Combine all ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat.

  2. Cook: Stir continuously until the mixture thickens into a mashed potato consistency.

  3. Cool: Remove from heat, place in a bowl, and cover with a damp cloth until it reaches room temperature.

  4. Knead: Knead until smooth.

2. Glue & Cornstarch Cold Porcelain Clay:

This recipe is great for making small, detailed figures as it is very smooth and durable.

• Ingredients:

  • 1 cup White PVA glue (e.g., Elmer's)

  • 1 cup Cornstarch

  • 1 tbsp Lemon juice or White vinegar (preservative)

  • 1 tbsp Mineral oil or Baby oil

• Instructions:

  1. Mix: Combine all ingredients in a microwave-safe bowl until smooth.

  2. Heat: Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until it forms a dough.

  3. Knead: Knead while warm until smooth.

3. Classic Salt Dough:

A simple, classic option perfect for children's crafts.

• Ingredients:

  • 2 cups Flour

  • 1 cup Salt

  • 3/4 cup to 1 cup Warm Water

• Instructions:

  1. Mix: Combine flour and salt.

  2. Combine: Gradually add water while stirring.

  3. Knead: Knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and pliable.

Tips for Success

• Drying Time: Let creations air-dry for 24–48 hours, or up to 3–5 days for thicker items.

• Storage: Store unused clay in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

• Cracking: If the clay is too dry, add a small amount of water or lotion.

• Coloring: You can add food coloring or acrylic paint during the kneading process to dye the clay.

• Durability: To make the clay stronger, you can mix in a little PVA glue.