Making your own playdough is always better than buying it.  Homemade playdough lasts longer than store bought and it is softer and more pliable.  I have tried using store bought brands in class and I always notice that the children are much more eager to play in the playdough center if the playdough is homemade. Here is my favorite playdough recipe below:

• 2 cups white flour

• ¼ cup cream of tartar*

• ½ cup salt

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

• 2 cups water

• food coloring
  
  Mix dry ingredients together in a medium pot. Add water and vegetable oil. Cook and stir over medium heat three to five minutes. When it begins to form a ball in the center of the pot, remove from heat and let cool in pot. Add food coloring of your choice (you may want to wear gloves and an apron for this part!) Store in an airtight container.

*If you're going to make a lot through the year, it's best to buy cream of tartar in bulk from a site like www.spicebarn.com or www.americanspice.com

Below you can see pictures and explanations of each of the items pictured above L-R.