Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients (Makes 2–3 cups of dough)
- 2 cups plain flour (all-purpose flour)
- 1 cup fine clean play sand (craft or beach sand, sifted and free from debris)
- ½ cup salt
- 1 tbsp cream of tartar (optional – extends shelf life & softens texture)
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 to 1¼ cups warm water (add slowly to adjust consistency)
Optional Add-ins:
- A few drops of food colouring (blue, yellow, or beach-inspired tones)
- A few drops of essential oils (vanilla or coconut for a beachy scent)
Instructions
Step-by-Step Preparation
1: Prepare the Sand
If using store-bought play sand, you’re ready to go! If you’re collecting beach sand, make sure to:
- Sift the sand through a fine sieve to remove debris, rocks, or shells.
- Spread it out and let it air dry (or pop in a low oven for 15 minutes).
- Allow it to cool completely before using.
2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- 2 cups flour
- 1 cup sand
- ½ cup salt
- 1 tbsp cream of tartar (if using)
- Stir until all dry ingredients are evenly combined.
3: Add the Wet Ingredients
- In a separate jug or bowl, mix:
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- Optional: A few drops of food colouring and/or essential oil added to 1 cup warm water
- Gradually pour the liquid mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring continuously.
4: Knead the Dough
- Once the mixture starts coming together, knead the dough with your hands.
- If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour.
- If it’s too dry or crumbly, add more water 1 tablespoon at a time until the dough reaches a soft, pliable consistency.
- Continue kneading for 3–5 minutes until smooth and elastic, with a sandy texture.
5: Play, Explore, Create!
Now your sand play dough is ready for action! Mould, squish, roll, build — the possibilities are endless.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Kneading Time: 5 minutes