Homemade Playdough

I keep having to look this up, so I better put it down here so we have it!

This is our favorite homemade playdough recipe.  Most things are better homemade, and this holds true for playdough.  The store bought stuff isn't horrible, but it doesn't last long and is really messy!  This stuff is easier to clean up and is more malleable (is that the right word?), so it's easier for kids to use.  And it lasts forever!  I kept some in the garage fridge at my parents' house and it lasted for over a year (and was still good!)  I just made another batch and am planning on keeping it in some old store-bought playdough containers and will see how long it lasts.  This is seriously so quick and easy and we love it!


HOMEMADE PLAYDOUGH
(originally found here)

*Makes about 2 1/2 cups of playdough

INGREDIENTS:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup salt
1 teaspoon cream of tartar
1 cup water
1 tablespoon cooking oil, like canola or vegetable
4-6 drops food coloring

DIRECTIONS:
In a medium saucepan, combine the dry ingredients. In a 2-cup or larger liquid measuring cup, combine the water, oil, and food coloring. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix with a wooden spoon. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the dough pulls away from the sides of the pan and forms a ball (it will be shaggy and messy looking). This should only take a few minutes.
On a lightly greased countertop, turn out the playdough and knead until smooth. Store the playdough in a tightly covered container or ziploc bag. Tightly covered, the playdough will keep for several months.