2 c. table salt
2/3 c. water
1 c. cornstarch
1/2 c. water
Water colors
Clear shellac

Mix salt and 2/3 cup water in saucepan. Stir about 4 minutes over low heat. Remove from heat. In another pan, mix cornstarch with 1/2 cup water. Immediately add to hot salt mixture. Stir to stiff dough consistency. Turn out on board and knead to form smooth pliable mass. Mold fruit shapes (or whatever). To make fruit ring, assemble fruit in circle on cardboard. Slip bent paper clips into each piece, circling into one unit. Let shapes dry for about a week until rock-like. Paint with water colors. Dry then apply 2 or more coats of shellac.