Baking soda clay

This fabulous "play-dough" is gluten-free, so I don't have to worry about kids getting it in their mouths!

2 cups of baking soda
1 cup of cornstarch
1 1/4 cups of cold water
food coloring (optional)

Mix the baking soda and cornstarch in a saucepan. Add water and stir to mix the ingredients, then cook over medium heat, stirring constantly for 5-10 minutes. Add food coloring to the water to make the colored clay or knead in when completed for multiple colors. Don't overcook the mixture. The clay should have the consistency of mashed potatoes. Remove the clay to a plate. Cover the clay with a damp cloth while it cools.

Make the clay ahead of time and store it for up to one week. Keep it refrigerated in a plastic container, but bring the clay to room temperature before using.

Three Ways to Dry Play Clay Art
Air: Set the clay on a wire rack overnight.
Oven: Preheat to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Turn off the oven, and then place the finished objects on a cooking sheet. Leave them in until the oven is cold.
Microwave: Place objects on a paper towel, bake them at medium power for 30 seconds, turn over, and bake them for another 30 seconds. Repeat until the clay is dry.