Everyone has a playdough recipe. I think this one feels just like the stuff from the store. It doesn't need to be refrigerated and it lasts a long time without drying out when stored in a airtight container. The recipe does not divide or multiply well and it makes a whole lot. So if you decide to make your own playdough, why not give some to a friend? I make playdough four times a year and give away half the batch each time.
This recipe is edible but tastes really gross. Kids love helping you measure out all the flour, oil and cream of tartar. Once the dough is the right consistency, pull off a handful and allow it to cool slightly so your kids can help you knead it. They will love playing with the warm dough.

Ingredients:

5 cups boiling water
2 1/2 cups salt
3 tablespoons cream of tartar
2 tablespoons food colouring
10 tablespoons vegetable oil
5 cups flour

Directions:
1.      Have the kids help you measure and dump flour into into a bowl.
2.    Allow the kids to choose what colour to make the playdough
(Adults Only)
3.    Boil the water in a LARGE saucepan (I boil the kettle and measure it out
of there to save time).
4.    Add salt, cream of tartar and food colouring
5.    As the water comes to the boil, stir in oil
6.    Add flour very slowly to the mixture on the stove
7.    keep stirring until the mixture starts to pull away from the sides of the
saucepan, remove from the heat at this point.
8.    Pinch a piece of the dough between your fingers and if it stays pinched (not
too sticky) then it is done. If not, put it back on the heat & try again in 5.
9.    Flour your kneading surface and pour the playdough mixture out on to it.
(Kids can help!)
10.  Pull a large chunk off the playdough and have the kids help knead the
dough with you until it is smooth. They will love the warm dough.