Christmas in July--Weekend Crafting

Sorry to be late posting this today.  I had stuff planned today and didn't get a chance to post before I left the house this morning.  Anyway, the craft I have to share with you today is one that I've been wanting to try myself for years.  It's another project from The Christmas Book.



Clay-Dough Ornaments

This clay-like dough is ideal for making ornaments.  Use any tools that seem appropriate to shape the dough.  These might include cookie cutters and toothpicks.

Shaped dough ornaments can be painted after they are baked or food coloring can be added to the water with which you make the dough.  If tinting the water, it is better to make small amounts of dough in several different colors rather than using the full recipe.

• 4 cups flour
• 1 cup salt
• 1 cup water 
• Food coloring (optional)
• Aluminum foil
• Ornament hangers or metal paper clips

Instructions:

1. Blend flour and salt in a large bowl.  Add food coloring to the water (if desired).  Add the colored or plain water gradually to form a firm dough.  Knead the dough until it is smooth.
2. Shape dough into ornaments and lay on foil-covered baking sheets.  Carefully push in hangers.  Or, cut paper clips in half widthwise and push in one half to act as a hanger.
3. Cook for about 2 hours at 250 degrees F.  Ornaments should be firm.  Correct baking time will depend on the size and thickness of the dough. 

Hope you'll get a chance to try this out some time.  Me too!

Always in spirit....