2 c. baking soda (1 lb.)
1 c. cornstarch
1 1/4 c. cold water
1/2 tsp. liquid food coloring of choice (opt.)
Acrylic or poster paints (opt.)
Varnish, shellac or clear nail polish (opt.)

Stir together baking soda and cornstarch in a saucepan. Add water and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly. When mixture is consistency of moist mashed potatoes, turn out on a plate and cover with a damp cloth.

Let cool. When Play Clay has cooled, it will have consistency of modeling clay. Use as desired to form objects of choice, jewelry, pencil holders, holiday ornaments, etc. Store unused Play Clay in a tightly sealed plastic bag in the refrigerator. Return to room temperature before using again.

Relatively flat items (1/8" thick) should dry overnight. Thicker objects take longer to dry. To shorten drying time, place clay objects in 350 degree oven for 15 minutes. Watch closely so items do not crack.

NOTE: Color may be added to clay in several ways, add liquid food coloring to clay as it is being made or paint finished objects, after they've hardened and dried, with acrylic or poster paints.