The History of Play-Doh

Did you love playing with Play-Doh as a kid? Do you STILL love it? I do (um, did).

Oddly enough, Play-Doh was originally designed as a wallpaper cleaner by Noah McVicker and Joseph McVicker. It was so similar though to regular modeling clay that it didn't take long until schools realized that it worked great in art class and was excellent with helping little hands advance their motor skills. It was first marketed to Cincinnati schools in the mid-1950s.

First sold to the public in 1956, the original Play-Doh packages were cardboard cans filled with 1.5 pounds of off-white dough. Soon thereafter came three-can packs of red, green and blue; while white dough came the year after that.

Over 2 billion cans of Play-Doh have been produced in the last 50+ years. About 95 million cans are currently made each year, and it is sold in 75 countries worldwide.

The once monochromatic modeling clay is now available in lots of vibrant colors and continues to be a standard for kids (and adults alike, right?).

The "official" Play-Doh recipe is top-secret, but to make homemade version here's a quick little recipe to follow:

"Doh"

1 cup flour
1 cup warm water
2 teaspoons cream of tarter
1 teaspoon oil
1/4 cup salt
food coloring

Mix all ingredients (add food coloring last). Stir over medium heat until smooth. Remove from pan, let cool slightly, and knead until blended and smooth. Store in a plastic bag or airtight container when cooled.

Have fun!!