Ingredients
- 1 cup cornstarch, plus up to 2 tablespoons extra for kneading and rolling
- 2 cups baking soda
- 1 1/4 cups cool water
- 1 tablespoon white school glue, optional for added flexibility
- 1 teaspoon cooking oil, such as vegetable oil, for the clay and your hands
- 1 medium nonstick saucepan, about 2 quarts
- 1 wooden spoon or silicone spatula for stirring
- 1 sheet parchment paper, about 12 inches by 16 inches
- 1 rolling pin, smooth glass jar, or clean bottle
- 1 set small cookie cutters, drinking glasses, or paper templates
- 1 small straw or skewer for hanging holes, optional
- 1 clean kitchen towel, at least 18 inches square
- 1 small bowl of extra cornstarch, about 1/4 cup
- 1 small paintbrush, about 1/2 inch wide
- 1 small set of acrylic craft paints, about 2 fluid ounces total, optional
- 1 small bottle of water-based clear sealer, about 2 fluid ounces, optional
- A table covering, such as a reusable silicone mat, old placemat, or scrap cardboard
- 1 pair reusable kitchen gloves, optional for warm kneading
Instructions
- Cover the table before you measure anything.
- Measure 1 cup of cornstarch and 2 cups of baking soda into the saucepan. Add 1 1/4 cups of cool water, 1 tablespoon of white school glue if using it, and 1 teaspoon of cooking oil.
- Stir the mixture over low heat with the wooden spoon or silicone spatula.
- Continue stirring for about 4 to 6 minutes until the mixture resembles thick mashed potatoes.
- Turn off the heat and place the warm clay on the parchment paper to cool for about 5 minutes.
- Dust your hands with a little cornstarch and knead the clay for 3 to 5 minutes until it feels smooth.
- Roll the clay between two sheets of parchment paper to about 1/4 inch thick.
- Cut shapes with small cookie cutters, drinking glasses, or paper templates.
- Add a hanging hole with a straw or skewer if making ornaments or tags.
- Move each shape to a parchment-lined tray or a clean sheet of cardboard.
- Leave the shapes uncovered in a dry, room-temperature place for 24 to 48 hours.
- Once the clay feels firm and cool throughout, paint it with thin coats of acrylic craft paint if desired.
- Brush on a thin layer of water-based clear sealer after the paint dries.
- Allow the finished piece to cure for at least 24 hours before wrapping or stacking it.
Notes
Keep the finished clay away from direct rain, standing water, and unprotected wood as the material remains porous even after it dries.
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
