Inedible Cornstarch Dough
A fun, non-edible craft dough perfect for creating holiday ornaments. Easy to make, mold, and paint, ideal for kids' craft projects and festive decorations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cornstarch, baking soda, and water over low heat and stir until the mixture reaches the consistency of stiff mashed potatoes.
- Remove from heat, cover with a wet towel, and let cool until it can be touched.
- Take the mixture out of the pan and knead until smooth and dough-like.
- On a surface covered with wax paper, roll the dough to 1/4-inch thickness.
- Cut out ornaments using cookie cutters, reworking excess dough as needed, then re-roll and cut again.
- Place the ornaments on a rack to air dry for 4 to 5 hours.
- Thin acrylic paint with water and paint the ornaments; allow to air dry.
- Optionally apply polyurethane or varnish and let dry. Hang on a tree or use for decorations.
Tips & Substitutions
When making this cornstarch dough, ensure you stir continuously to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth consistency. If the dough feels too sticky, you can add a little more cornstarch. For a fun twist, consider adding food coloring to the water before mixing to create colored ornaments. This dough is not edible, so keep it away from small children and pets to avoid any mishaps.
Serving Suggestions
These ornaments make delightful decorations for your holiday tree or as gifts for friends and family. Pair them with a festive atmosphere complemented by a warm drink like Hot Spiced Holiday Punch. You can also use them as unique table centerpieces during the holidays. For an added touch, consider creating a themed display with Lavender Potpourri to enhance the overall aesthetic.
Storage & Reheating
Once the ornaments are fully dried, store them in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to prevent moisture from damaging them. If you wish to keep the ornaments for a long time, avoid exposing them to direct sunlight, as this may cause fading. Do not refrigerate or freeze them, as this can affect their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Inedible Cornstarch Dough contains roughly 51 calories, with 0g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I eat the cornstarch dough?
No, this cornstarch dough is not edible. It’s designed for crafting and decoration purposes only. Consuming it can lead to digestive issues due to the high concentration of cornstarch and baking soda. Always keep the dough out of reach of children and pets.
How long do the ornaments last once dried?
The ornaments can last for many years if stored properly in a cool, dry place. They may become brittle over time, but as long as they are kept away from moisture and direct sunlight, they can retain their shape and color for a long time.
Can I paint the ornaments with regular paint?
It’s recommended to use thin acrylic paint for decorating these ornaments, as it adheres well and dries quickly. Other paints might not adhere properly or could cause the dough to break down. Always allow the paint to dry completely before handling or displaying.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).