Easy DIY Homemade Moon Sand
This post and its photos may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon associate I earn from qualifying purchases. If you make a purchase through these links, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you!
We LOVE Moon Sand around here! I know that many people cringe at the idea of moldable sand as a play toy (at least a couple of moms that we gifted Moon Sand to at kids birthday parties have LOL!), but I tend to think of it as an outdoor activity (i.e. easily swept up and/or hosed off), so the mess doesn’t really bother me. It’s one of those things that can keep my boys entertained for hours, so I personally tend to think of it as something just-short-of-miraculous.
The problem with Moon Sand is that there is never enough of it to go around! With three boys wanting to dig their hands in and get squishing and molding, even the large packs of Moon Sand aren’t very cost effective when you consider that a large portion of it probably will end up on the ground/table/etc. (we try to remedy that by putting a sheet down underneath and then dumping all the spillage back into the tub).
When I discovered this recipe for Cloud Dough via Tinkerlab I figured it would be perfect for my Moon Sand lovin’ bunch. The recipe is simple: 8 cups of flour & 1 cup of oil (we used baby oil). Mix it up really well until all of the oil is incorporated into the flour. It will still look like flour (albeit full of teeny tiny lumps from the bits of oil), but it is moldable just like Moon Sand! I didn’t get any pictures of them when they were building with it, but they were able to mold bricks and stack up an entire wall with this stuff!
It kept these two entertained for the better part of the next TWO DAYS, and over a week later it’s still going strong out on our backyard table. Just as much fun as Moon Sand, but WAY cheaper!
Heidi Kundin has captivated the hearts of millions with her colorful and inspiring approach to crafting, celebrations, and family fun. With over 15 years of experience, Heidi’s website has become a must-visit destination for those seeking quick and easy creative ideas and last-minute solutions. Her warm personality shines through her posts, inviting readers to join her on a creative journey that’s fun, rewarding, and achievable.
I worked as a nanny for 3 years with an awesome family. We used COCONUT OIL and flour I also put a few drops of lavender oil. And at one time we added food coloring.
I love this! I’m terrible with any kind of crafts and making toys but this seems possible even for me. Thanks!
Great idea! I just have a tip. The second time I made this, I substituted cornmeal mix in place of the flour. The texture came out way better (more like moldable sand) than using flour. 😉
Hi Alyssa
When you mention cornmeal mix. are you referring to corn flour or maize meal/mealie meal as we call it in south africa.
Thank you
Good question! I too would like to know!
Ooh, great idea, making it an outside thing. And I have PLENTY of flour. I sense some homemade moon sand in my son’s future.
Amanda
You have THE BEST ideas!!! WOW! My boys would LOVE this- totally adding it to the list of “to do’s this summer” Thank you Heidi!!! Shared on FB Too-your the best!
-jen