There’s something truly magical about the run-up to Christmas, especially when tiny hands get involved. Salt dough is one of the simplest, most child-friendly materials around and it’s perfect for creating keepsake decorations for gifting or hanging on your tree.
Below is our step-by-step guide to making beautiful salt dough Christmas decorations with your children. Easy, cheap and messy (in the best possible way!).
What You’ll Need
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250g plain flour
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125g table salt
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125g warm water
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Mixing bowl
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Rolling pin
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Christmas-themed cookie cutters
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Baking tray
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String or ribbon
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Paints, crayons, glitter, or varnish (optional, but extra fun!)
How to Make the Dough
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Mix the dry ingredients:
Combine the flour and salt in a large bowl.
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Add water gradually:
Pour in the warm water bit by bit, mixing as you go. You’re aiming for a smooth, pliable dough, similar to playdough. If it’s too sticky, add more flour; too crumbly, add a splash more water. -
Knead the dough:
Let your children squish, roll and press it until it’s soft and even. This part is excellent for sensory play.
Create Your Decorations
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Roll out the dough to about 1cm thick.
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Cut out shapes using your festive cookie cutters or even your children’s handprints for extra-special keepsakes.
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Make a small hole near the top of each decoration using a straw or pencil so you can hang them later.
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Transfer gently onto a lined baking tray.
Dry and Bake
You have two options:
Option 1: Oven Drying (Faster)
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Preheat to 50°C.
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Bake for 2–3 hours, turning them halfway through.
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They’re done when completely hard and dry.
Option 2: Air Drying (No Oven Needed)
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Leave your shapes somewhere warm and dry for 24–48 hours, turning occasionally.
Time to Decorate
This is where your children can really shine. Once cooled:
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Paint in bright colours
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Add doodles with felt tips
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Use PVA glue to sprinkle glitter
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Seal with varnish if you want them to last for years
Don’t forget to thread some ribbon or string through the hole at the top so they’re ready for the tree.
A Beautiful Family Tradition
Salt dough decorations make lovely gifts for grandparents, stocking fillers or joyful additions to your own home.
If you try this activity, we’d love to see your creations. Share them with us by sending us a photo by email hello@iloclothing.co.uk
