Make your own play dough

We’ve experimented with several different recipes over the years and this one is reliable and easy. The only problem might be that most kitchens don’t have alum (I’ve heard you can substitute cream of tartar or baking powder, but haven’t tried it yet)

2 cups flour
1 cup salt
1 tablespoon alum
1 1/2 cups water
food coloring (as desired)

Mix all ingredients in the top pan of a double boiler, over boiling water. Scrape sides and bottom and cook about 10 minutes until stiff. Cool until comfortable to handle and then knead for 10 minutes. Keep in plastic bag.