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Easy Mother’s Day Crafts for Little Hands

Create memorable handprint keepsakes with your little ones using simple dough. This craft captures special moments and encourages family bonding.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 1 keepsake
Course: Baking or Air Drying
Cuisine: Baking or Air Drying
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup plain flour
  • 1/2 cup table salt
  • 1/2 cup warm water
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil optional
  • Baking sheet or tray for baking or flat plate (for air drying)
  • Parchment paper or silicone mat
  • Rolling pin or smooth bottle
  • Knife or cookie cutter heart or circle shape
  • Acrylic paints or washable tempera paints
  • Small paintbrushes or sponges
  • Fine-tipped permanent marker optional
  • Clear acrylic sealer or diluted white glue optional
  • Small bowl and spoon for mixing
  • Damp cloth for clean-ups

Method
 

  1. Mix the dough in a small bowl. Combine flour and salt, then stir in warm water and a drop of oil.
  2. Press with a spoon until the mixture forms a smooth, slightly sticky mass.
  3. Feel the texture as you knead it lightly until it becomes soft and pliable.
  4. Prepare your workspace with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  5. Dust the surface lightly with flour if the dough sticks.
  6. Let the child pat the dough into a simple disc.
  7. Flatten the dough to a gentle thickness, about half an inch.
  8. Invite the child to press their hand into the center.
  9. Cut the shape around the handprint with a cutter.
  10. Choose to bake or air-dry. For baking, place on a lined baking sheet and bake at 200°F for 1 to 2 hours.
  11. Let the keepsake cool completely, then sand any rough edges.
  12. Paint gently with non-toxic paints or leave the natural color.
  13. Add personal touches like a name or message.

Notes

Consider air-drying the dough for a safer option. Use non-toxic materials throughout the project.