1 c. flour
1 c. salt
1 tbsp. cooking oil
2 tbsp. cream of tartar
1 c. water

Stir dry ingredients together in a 3 quart saucepan. Add water and colorings. (You can use food coloring or non-toxic poster or tempera paints.) Stir to mix well. Cook over medium heat until mashed potato consistency. It should take only 3 to 5 minutes unless you have doubled the recipe. Turn out onto a counter or board. Knead to cool. Store in air tight container (zip lock bags are good).

If you use paint to color, be cautious! Use only a small amount. The colors will be more brilliant than with food coloring, but it is easy to use too much and then the dough will leave color on hands, clothing and whatever surfaces it comes in contact with.