Details:
Materials Included: Pre-measured powder mix (salt/cornstarch base), two metal cookie cutters (holiday shapes), six small pots of vibrant paint colors, and one paintbrush.
Yield: Makes approximately 4-6 medium-sized ornaments, depending on thickness and cookie cutter size.
Age: Recommended for ages 3+ with adult supervision for the baking step.
Use: Perfect for creating personalized ornaments, gift tags, or small home decor pieces.
Mindy's Makeables - Keepsake Ornament Kit: Directions for Use
This kit is designed to be a fun, no-fuss activity that requires just a little water and your home oven! (Adult supervision recommended for the mixing and baking steps.)
Step 1: Mix the Dough
Prep: Pour the entire bag of pre-measured powder mix (salt/cornstarch) into a large mixing bowl.
Add Water: Slowly add 2/3 cup of water to the powder mix. Start with slightly less and add more only if needed.
Mix: Stir until the mixture forms a shaggy dough. Use your hands to knead the dough until it is smooth, soft, and no longer sticky (about 3-5 minutes). If it's too sticky, add a sprinkle of flour or cornstarch.
Step 2: Roll and Cut
Roll: Lightly dust a flat surface (like a clean counter or parchment paper) with a bit of flour. Use a rolling pin (not included) to roll the dough out evenly to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
Cut: Use the two included cookie cutters to cut out your shapes. Carefully lift the ornaments and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Make Hanger Holes: Use a toothpick, straw, or pencil to create a small hole near the top of each ornament for hanging.
Re-roll: Gather the dough scraps and re-roll them to cut out more shapes until all the dough is used.
Step 3: Bake and Harden
Preheat: Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C).
Bake: Place the baking sheet with the ornaments into the preheated oven. Bake for 2 to 3 hours.
Check: The ornaments are done when they are hard to the touch and sound dry (not dull) when lightly tapped. Tip: Thicker pieces will take longer.
Cool: Turn off the oven and let the ornaments cool completely on the baking sheet. They should be hard and ready to paint!
Step 4: Paint and Finish
Set Up: Use the included paintbrush and six pots of paint to decorate your dried ornaments.
Dry: Allow the paint to dry fully (usually 30–60 minutes).
Seal (Optional): For a glossy finish and added protection, you can brush on a coat of clear craft varnish or sealant (not included) once the paint is dry.
Hang: Once fully dry, thread a piece of twine or ribbon (not included) through the hole and hang your beautiful new keepsake!
