Glow in the Dark Play Dough Recipe
You know that moment when the lights go out and your kids squeal with excitement? That wide-eyed, giggly kind of magic?
That’s exactly what you’re about to create with this glow-in-the-dark play dough recipe. It's squishy, sparkly fun that lights up their imaginations—literally. Plus, it's just the right mix of mess and magic to make playtime unforgettable.
Think of this craft like a science experiment in disguise. You get the hands-on creativity of play dough, plus a little STEM sparkle.
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Supplies Needed for Glow in the Dark Playdough
30+ easy play dough recipes your kids will want to make again and again.
Step-by-Step Glow in the Dark Playdough Recipe
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
Gather your supplies and measure out your ingredients so everything is ready to go.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of flour, 1/2 cup of salt, and 2 tablespoons of cream of tartar.
Step 3: Add the Water and Oil
Slowly add the water and oil to your dry mixture and stir until combined.
Step 4: Cook the Dough
Pour the mixture into a medium saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring frequently for 4–5 minutes until a dough ball forms. Take the pan off the heat and place the dough on a piece of parchment paper to cool.
Step 5: Divide the Dough
Once the dough is cool enough to handle, split it into four equal parts.
Step 6: Add the Glow Paint
Add 1 teaspoon of glow in the dark paint to each portion of playdough.
Step 7: Add the Food Coloring
Add half a teaspoon of food coloring to each portion.
Step 8: Knead in the Color
Knead the colors in until they are evenly incorporated.
Check the consistency as you go. If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle in a little more flour. If it’s too dry, a touch more water should do the trick.
All done!
Then play! Don’t forget to turn the lights off for a whole new experience.
We'd love to see yours! Snap a photo and share it in the comments.
Storage Tips for Glow in the Dark Play Dough
Store each color in its own airtight container or zip-top bag so the dough stays soft and the colors stay bright. Before playtime, set the dough under a lamp or in a sunny window for a few minutes to charge the glow, then turn off the lights.
Glow paint is not edible, so always supervise younger children during play.
Want More Play Dough Fun?
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