How to Make Microwave Play Dough

Play dough is a classic kids' favorite craft that you make in your own microwave.

Keeping kids occupied indoors from day to day can sometimes be challenging. Crafts and other fun projects are a great way to keep their interest for a stretch of time. Play dough is a classic kids' favorite. And it is easy and convenient to make. Read on to learn how to make microwave play dough.

Things You'll Need

• Microwave safe bowl
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 tablespoons cream of tartar
• 1/4 cup of salt
• Plastic wrap
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil
• 1 ½ cups water
• Food coloring in a color of your choice

Instructions

Make Microwave Play Dough

1. Measure out all your ingredients. Gather the rest of the supplies that you will need for the project.

2. Put the cream of tartar and the flour into a microwave safe bowl. Carefully stir these dry ingredients to mix them, making sure that they are completely and evenly combined.

3. Add the water, oil and the food coloring. Combine, once again ensuring that all the ingredients are thoroughly combined. The end result should be a smooth mixture.

4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and then place the bowl in the microwave. Heat the mixture on high for three to five minutes. This cooking time may vary based on the size of your microwave: the larger the microwave, the longer the heating time. A smaller microwave will take less time.

5. Take the mixture out of the microwave and kneed the dough for about minute. Be sure to work the entire lump of mixture, to make sure that it is all completely kneaded.

6. Return this kneaded dough mixture to your microwave again. This time, heat it for just about two minutes. If it is still gooey, return it to the microwave for another minute.

7. Promptly remove it once again from the microwave and knead it thoroughly. Pay particular attention to the underside of the dough. Knead your play dough for at least one minute.

8. Let the play dough cool down. Store the play dough in an airtight container, in the fridge. Remove it to play, and then return it promptly to the container to keep it from drying out too fast.

Tips & Warnings

• You can use powder paint in place of the food coloring.

• Mix two or more food colors to create a unique shade of your own.

• You can add scents to the play dough, but this may encourage younger children to eat it.