Cornstarch and baking soda dough ornaments are cheap and easy. A great winter craft for kids and adults. Use as present tags or Christmas ornaments.
– 1 cup (270 g) baking soda– 1/2 cup (70 g) cornstarch, more for kneading– 3/4 cups (180 ml) water– 1 bottle essential oil, orange, lemon or cinnamon
INGREDIENTS
Make the mix: Mix cornstarch and baking soda in a small saucepan. Add water and whisk until soda and starch dissolve and liquid is smooth. Use 5-10 drops of essential oil.
INSTRUCTIONS
STEP 1
Stir frequently over medium heat for 5 minutes until thickened. Stir and scrape the bowl bottom and sides. The mixture will bubble before thickening.
STEP 2
After it thickens like toothpaste, remove it from the stove. Transfer dough to a cool plate or glass bowl to cool to room temperature (30 minutes). If leaving it longer, cover it with a damp cloth to avoid drying.
STEP 3
Put dough on your work surface. To make a smooth ball, dust the dough with cornstarch.
STEP 4
When it's sticky or too wet, add tablespoons of cornstarch and knead until not sticky. Pliable but not sticky or crumbly. Too much dryness breaks it.
STEP 5
Spread more cornstarch on your work area and roll the dough to 1/4 inch (6mm). Use a standard rolling pin. Use a patterned rolling pin only for a final ornamental roll-out.
STEP 6
Cut shapes and place on parchment-lined baking sheet. Straw-cut ornament holes. Air-dry decorations overnight. Next day, flip and dry until firm, preferably another day. Delay is better.