I got a little creative the other day.
Maybe I’ve been using Pinterest for too long and decided that I was, in fact, craftier than I thought?
Maybe I was just looking for something that my little boy and I could do together on another long day at home?
Either way, we got busy and I have to say, I’m thrilled with the results! All those sweet little stamps I couldn’t help but buy even though I have absolutely no use for them, suddenly reached their full potential! While I happily created my trees and swirls, my son made aeroplanes and butterflies with his dough, which are, as I type, being painted in vibrant primary colours, in readiness for hanging on our DIY Christmas tree next week.
These are the little things that will be unpacked each Christmas as we decorate the tree and I will always remember that November day when he was little. Nostalgic? Who me?
Basic Salt Dough Recipe
1 cup salt (just use table salt)
2 cups of plain flour
3/4 cup of water
Method:
- Simply combine the flour and salt in a bowl, then add the water gradually. Knead the mixture until it becomes a dough-like consistency. It will feel very grainy because of the high salt content. If it’s on the sticky side, add a touch more flour. If it won’t hold together, add a little more water, a teaspoon at a time.
- You can add glitter, dried flower or herbs to the mix for a nice touch too!
- Knead the dough and roll out ready for cutting, stamping and shaping. For kids decorations, keep the dough quite thick. It dries rock hard, so it’s very sturdy!
- If you have time, you can air dry, meaning the dough will retain its pale colour. If not, or for decorations you’re going to paint, bake them in a very low oven for around 2 hours, turning halfway.
- When dry and cool, they’re ready to paint!
