Looking for a simple DIY that encourages creativity and sensory play? These homemade play dough stamps are inexpensive to make, durable, and perfect for little hands. The best part? I am no woodworker- even though i wish i was – but Lowe’s will cut the wooden dowel for you, making this project even easier! The best fall craft you’ll try this season – how cute for a food-free treat for halloween!
Supplies
- Poplar Round Dowel – 1½” x 48″
- Dollar Tree wood stickers (animals, letters, shapes, vehicles, etc.) in this case we chose fall themed ones or order these on Amazon!
- Titebond Wood Glue
- 80-grit sanding block
- Tung Oil
- 1-quart container (for holding the tung oil while finishing)
- Tongs (to dip and remove the stamps from the finish)
Step 1: Have Lowe’s Cut the Dowel
When purchasing your 1½-inch poplar round dowel, ask an associate at Lowe’s to cut it into 1½- to 2-inch pieces.
Tip: The saw may leave sharp edges or rough marks on the cut ends. Don’t worry—you’ll smooth those out in the next step.
If you want to skip this all together Amazon has some great alternatives and use these or these
Step 2: Sand the Pieces
Using an 80-grit sanding block, sand each piece until the cut edges are smooth and comfortable to hold. Round over any sharp corners so they’re safe for little hands.
Step 3: Attach the Wood Stickers
Choose your favorite Dollar Tree wood stickers and glue one to the flat end of each dowel using Titebond Wood Glue. No dollar tree? no problem – here are some fun ones on Amazon!
Press firmly and allow the glue to dry completely. Helps to put these under heavy books and leave out overnight.
Step 4: Seal the Wood
To help the stamps last longer and make them easier to wipe clean:
- Pour Tung Oil into a 1-quart container.
- Use tongs to dip each stamp into the finish.
- Remove and allow the excess oil to drip off.
- Let the stamps dry completely before using.
Be sure to work in a well-ventilated area and follow all safety instructions on the tung oil container.
Ready to Play!
Once dry, your DIY play dough stamps are ready for endless creative fun. Kids can press animals, shapes, letters, or seasonal designs into play dough to build fine motor skills, encourage imaginative play, and strengthen hand muscles.
This is a great rainy-day project, homeschool activity, classroom resource, or handmade gift. Plus, with Lowe’s cutting the dowels and Dollar Tree supplying the wood stickers, you can make a whole set without spending a fortune!
Have you made your own play dough tools? I’d love to hear what designs you chose!
