How to Make Salt Dough 'Dinosaur Fossil' Dig Excavation

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1

   **Prepare the Salt Dough:** In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of salt, and 3/4 cup of water. Stir until a stiff dough forms.

2. 2

   **Knead the Dough:** Transfer the dough to a clean, lightly floured surface. Knead for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

3. 3

   **Shape the Fossils:** Divide the dough into portions, each large enough to create a fossil imprint. Flatten each portion into a disc approximately 1/2 inch thick.

4. 4

   **Create Fossil Imprints:** Gently press a toy dinosaur or plastic bone into the center of each dough disc, creating a clear impression. Carefully remove the toy, leaving the imprint behind.

5. 5

   **Bake the Fossils:** Arrange the dough 'fossils' on a baking sheet. Bake in a preheated oven at 250°F (120°C) for 2-3 hours, or until the fossils are completely dry and hard.

6. 6

   **Cool the Fossils:** Allow the baked salt dough fossils to cool completely on the baking sheet.

7. 7

   **Set Up the Dig:** Once cooled, place the salt dough fossils into a bin or tray filled with sand or dirt.

8. 8

   **Excavate the Fossils:** Provide children with brushes and safe excavation tools (like popsicle sticks or plastic chisels). Encourage them to gently brush away the sand or dirt to reveal the dinosaur fossil imprints.

Frequently Asked Questions