4 c. flour
1 c. salt
6 tbsp. powdered alum (available at drum store, option, helps preserve clay)
2 - 3 tbsp. salad oil
1 1/2 to 2 c. water colored with food coloring

Knead. Keep covered. Lasts a long time. Vacuums up easily. Homemade clay is much less expensive than commercial clay. This clay stays soft.