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The women in my family have always worked on a wide variety of crafts, and all of us collected and shared our favorite instructions, patterns, and recipes. Each of us had a favorite clay recipe, and grandchildren, nieces and nephews loved it when we made a batch of homemade clay for them. The kids made Christmas ornaments, animals, sculptures, bowls and baskets, and even flowers. And we grownups joined in the fun. After all, clay isn't just for kids.

I have picked out three of our favorite, and easiest, homemade clay recipes. Most of these recipes use common ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. They are non-toxic, with the exception of the Bread Clay recipe, so you don't have to worry if your kids decide to lick their fingers as they work on their creations. All of these clays can be air dried, which helps keep the children safe from the temptation to pick up freshly baked ornaments. They can be painted, or you can color your clay with a few drops of food coloring as you mix it. If you color your clay, be sure to protect your working surfaces to avoid an accidental stain.

Here are a few tips for using and storing your clay. These clays will dry out as they are worked. Keep a small bowl of water handy to moisten the clay if it becomes too dry to work easily, or if it begins to crumble. A few drops of water worked into the clay will usually restore its elasticity. Also, while the clays can be stored for a few days in the refrigerator, it is a good idea to put a few drops of water into the bag to keep your clay pliable. If you have stored your clay in the refrigerator, allow it to warm to room temperature before working with it. If you are making flat objects, such as Christmas ornaments or plaques, be sure to turn them over as they dry to prevent warping.

Cornstarch and Soda Clay:

2 cups baking soda

1 cup cornstarch

1-1/4 cups cold water

Combine all ingredients in saucepan, stirring until smooth. Bring to boil and boil one minute, stirring until clay is the consistency of mashed potatoes. Pour out onto a cookie tray and cover with a damp cloth until cool. Knead lightly, adding food coloring, if desired. Use immediately or store, wrapped air-tight, in refrigerator.

Salt Clay (also called Baker's Clay)

1-1/2 cups flour

3/8 cup salt

3/4 - 1-1/8 cups water

Mix ingredients thoroughly in bowl. Knead until well blended, adding more flour or water as needed until the clay is smooth and can be easily worked. Keep tightly wrapped for storage as it will dry when exposed

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