How to Make Salt Dough Ornaments with Kids
Mix flour, salt, and water, cut shapes, bake at 250°F, and paint. Salt dough ornaments are an easy kid craft that lasts for years on the tree.
Ages4+Time1 hour + drying
What You Need
Salt dough ornaments are made from just flour, salt, and water, then baked low and slow until hard. Kids can mix, roll, cut, and paint them in one afternoon.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat the oven to 250°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix the flour and salt in a large bowl. Slowly stir in the water until a dough forms.
- Knead for about 3 minutes until smooth. Add a little flour if it feels sticky.
- Roll the dough to 1/4 inch thick on a floured counter.
- Press out shapes with cookie cutters and move them to the baking sheet.
- Poke a hole near the top of each shape with the straw.
- An adult bakes them for 2 to 3 hours, flipping once, until fully hard. Let them cool completely.
- Paint with acrylics and let dry.
- Thread ribbon through the holes and hang.
Tips for Little Hands
- Keep the dough away from pets. It is very salty and not safe to eat.
- Let kids press stamps, buttons, or a fork into the dough for texture.
- Only an adult should use the oven and move hot trays.
- Use a thicker coat of paint, then add glitter while still wet.
Make It Your Own
- Press a small handprint or footprint in the dough before baking.
- Write names and the year on the back with a paint pen.
- Make a set of gift tags instead of tree ornaments.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do salt dough ornaments last?
If baked until fully dry and sealed with clear varnish, they can last for many years. Store them in a dry box away from damp.
What temperature do you bake salt dough ornaments?
Bake at 250°F for 2 to 3 hours, flipping once, until hard. Thicker ornaments need more time.
Can you air dry salt dough ornaments?
Yes. Air drying takes 2 to 3 days, turning them daily. Baking is faster and gives a harder finish.
