Salt dough is one of the cheapest craft materials around. It is soft enough for small hands to shape, and once baked it becomes a sturdy ornament that can be painted and kept for years.
The dough
Mix one cup of plain flour, half a cup of salt and about half a cup of water. Knead until smooth, adding a little more flour or water as needed.
Shape and cut
Roll the dough out to about half a centimetre thick. Let children press in cookie cutters, or shape stars, hearts or handprints.
Make a hole
Use a straw or a skewer to make a hole near the top for a ribbon before baking.
Bake slowly
Bake at a low heat until hard, which can take an hour or more depending on thickness. Let them cool completely before painting.
Paint and seal
Paint with acrylic paint and allow to dry. A coat of clear varnish helps protect them from humidity.