Salt Dough Recipe

Use this simple salt dough recipe to create lasting treasures such as ornaments, paw prints, and many other crafts. Salt dough is a versatile and easy-to-make material that is perfect for all kinds of DIY projects.

What Is Salt Dough?

Salt dough is a malleable mixture made from just three ingredients: flour, salt, and water. It doesnt crumble or crack, and its easy to dry in either the oven or microwave, making it ideal for homemade crafts and ornaments. Whether youre making decorations or keepsakes, this dough is a fantastic choice for creative projects.

How to Make Salt Dough

Heres a simple step-by-step guide to making salt dough at home:

Step 1: Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 cup of salt. Gradually add 1 cup of cold water, a few tablespoons at a time, stirring well after each addition. Continue adding water until the dough comes together.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

Once the ingredients are mixed, knead the dough for about 10 minutes. You should have a smooth, pliable dough. If it feels too sticky, sprinkle a little flour; if its too dry, add a bit more water. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for 20 minutes.

Step 3: Roll and Shape the Dough

After the dough has rested, transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it out to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use your favorite cookie cutters to cut the dough into festive shapes. For ornaments, dont forget to make a small hole in each piece with a toothpick so you can hang them later.

Step 4: Bake the Shapes

Preheat your oven to 250F (120C). Place the cut shapes on a lined baking sheet, and bake for about 2 hours, or until the dough is dry and hard. The time may vary depending on the thickness of your shapes, so check occasionally. Allow the baked dough to cool completely before decorating.

Recipe Tip

The yield of your dough will depend on the size of the cookie cutters you use. Larger shapes will require more dough, while smaller ones will create more pieces.

How to Preserve Salt Dough

Once your salt dough shapes are baked and cooled, you can decorate them with paint. After decorating, preserve your creations by applying a craft sealer like Mod Podge or a spray sealant coating. Allow the sealant to dry fully before storing your ornaments.

How Long Does Salt Dough Last?

When properly sealed, salt dough can last for decades. Without a sealant, however, it may begin to crumble after a few weeks, so be sure to seal it well if you want it to last.

How to Store Finished Salt Dough Ornaments

Store your finished salt dough ornaments in a cool, dry place, away from heat and humidity. For the best protection, store them in a sturdy and wrap each ornament in wax paper before packing them away.

Community Tips and Feedback

"Worked great!" Dana Burke

"Pro Tip: Place the dough in the fridge for 5 minutes to make it easier to make imprints." Patches Jackson

"Want your decorations to smell amazing? Add some cinnamon to the dry ingredients before mixing!" Patches Jackson

"Super easy directions. Just remember, add the water slowly for the best results!" Lee Anne Barbara

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup salt
• 1 cup cold water

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 250F (120C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add the cold water, a few tablespoons at a time, stirring well after each addition.
3. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth. Cover it and let rest for 20 minutes.
4. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it again until soft and pliable.
5. Roll the dough out to a thickness of 1/8 inch, then cut into desired shapes using cookie cutters.
6. Place the shaped dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a toothpick to create a hole for hanging each ornament.
7. Bake the dough in the preheated oven for 2 hours, or until dry and hard. Allow to cool completely before decorating.