How to Harden Playdough in the Oven
Play dough isn't just a fun substance for children at playtime. It also effectively strengthens the small motor muscles in the hands and fingers. Strengthening these muscles is vital to preschool-aged children learning how to hold writing utensils and scissors and using them properly. Play dough crafts and activities are enjoyable, whether completed at home or school. If your student or child has created something special, you can preserve it by hardening the play dough in the oven.
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking tray with aluminum foil to cover the bottom.
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Lay the play dough figures and shapes on the foil-lined tray. Place the tray in the oven.
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Playdough needs time for the oven's heat to dry it out. Bake the play dough figures until the dough hardens, typically an hour. Thinner shapes may need less time. Check the play dough for hardness by tapping it with the end of a fork. The play dough shouldn't give or feel soft to the touch.
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Use oven mitts to avoid burns while handling the hot tray. Use oven mitts to remove the tray from the oven. Allow the play dough to cool for 10 minutes while remaining on the pan.
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Slide a spatula under each figure, one at a time, and transfer the hardened play dough to a cooling rack. Allow the play dough to cool completely.
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Tips & Warnings
Hardened play dough can be painted with nontoxic paint or food coloring.
Even after hardening, the play dough can crumble easily. Be careful when handling the play dough.
As an alternative to baking play dough to harden it, you can leave it in the open for two to three days until it dries out naturally.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Polka Dot/Getty Images Comstock/Comstock/Getty Images Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
