I have wanted to make salt dough fossils for quite sometime. We are currently studying ‘Flying Creatures’ for science and making nature fossils seemed to be a perfect fit. I also teach at a local homeschool co-op once a week and we made this same salt dough recipe in class – 3 batches of salt dough later I think I have mastered the recipe and wanted to share it with you!
It is easy to work with, rolls out great, bakes up nicely, and provided hours of entertainment for many little people. Speaking of entertainment, did you make our best ever play-doh? We are due to make another batch soon. In the summer months we like to take our dough experiences outdoors for a messy, hands on, multi-sensory learning experience.
Whether you are looking to make nature fossils, cute baby foot print momentos, or ornaments – this recipe will surely be a hit for the whole family.
My head is already spinning with ideas. After all, Mothers day is just around the corner…I’m thinking a layered handprint casting is on order at My Happy Homestead stay tune for more!
How to Make Salt Dough
How to Make Salt Dough Fossils
Ingredients
- 4 Cups of flour
- 1 Cup of Salt
- 1-2 Cups of Water {depending on the humidity in the air - we used approx. 1 3/4 C}
Instructions
- Measure dry ingredients in a large bowl.
- Gradually add water to dry mixture.
- Mix with hands {it's just more fun that way} and it assures the perfect consistency. When it feel slightly moist {not dry} and not too sticky you're good to go.
- Roll or Pat out dough to approx 1/4in thickness. Use cookie cutters, knives, etc. for your idea shape. Press nature, hands, thumb prints, and small objects in dough until desired imprint is achieved. Careful to not push too hard and puncture the dough.
- Bake at 325 degrees on parchment lined cookie sheet for 2 hours
- Let cool. Paint with Acrylic Paint {we used water colors paint that worked too}
- Seal with Modge Podge.
Can these be baked after a few hours or left to dry on thier own? I’m also looking for ideas for co-op class that does not have an oven at the location
Katy- Did you try? I would like to do in my classroom but no oven.
We made these recently in our co-op – I ended up making the dough at home and brought to class. It added a few extra steps but, the kids really enjoyed it. I hope you were able to try the salt dough recipe out despite the hiccup of no oven. 😉 Have a happy day!
About how many fossils did you make with this recipe? I know it depends on the size but say adult palm size approximately.