This DIY scented play dough recipe is super simple to make. We added scent and flowers to make it multisensory. It is also non-toxic, and replacing food coloring with turmeric makes it even more safe for little hands. This play dough recipe is a staple in our home. We have made it at least a dozen times.
The play dough lasts for months. We store it in a recycled plastic container or a plastic bag. You can even use old play doh containers to store them. The texture is very similar to store bought play doh, but the texture does sometimes vary. If your dough ends up being too sticky, try adding more flour and keep kneading. This recipe makes a lot dough, about 4 handfuls.
These wood tracing letters were perfect for making stamps. We use all types of loose parts with our play dough, rather than investing in a lot of plastic tools which have a single purpose. You can also try using wooden pottery stamps, or textured wooden rollers to make beautiful impressions.
To read more about the developmental benefits of play dough, click here.
Try this recipe with different spices and see what kinds of colors you can make!
Play Dough Recipe
2 cups flour
1 cup salt
2 cups of water
1 tablespoon oil. vegetable or coconut oil are both suitable.
1/2 tablespoon of cream of tartar
a pinch of turmeric (for color)
calendula flowers (for texture)
orange essential oil (for scent)
Directions
- Mix water and turmeric.
- Add turmeric water, salt, flour and oil in a pot.
- Put on stovetop on medium heat.
- Stir constantly until a dough forms. This should take a couple of minutes.
- Put dough in a bowl or countertop, let cool.
- Knead the dough until it has reached the desired consistency.
- Knead in calendula flowers and essential oil.
- Play!
