1 lb. baking soda
1 c. cornstarch
1 1/4 c. water
Food coloring (optional)

In a saucepan, combine baking soda and cornstarch; add water. Stir and cook over medium heat until thickened to mashed potato consistency. Transfer to platter and cover with plastic wrap.

When cool, gently pat until smooth. Roll out dough and cut into desired shapes using cookie cutters (or use free-hand designs). Allow to dry, paint, or decorate as desired. (A magnet strip can be glued to the back; makes a great "refrigerator" magnet.)

Any leftover dough can be refrigerate in a tightly covered container. Allow to come to room temperature before shaping.