Putting my "crafty" title to the test

Cousins Johnny and Sarah, even Grandma, have quite the stash of Play-Doh on hand at all times. Robbie and Cub enjoyed playing with it in California (despite in the past showing little interest), so when we got home, I picked up a couple simple starter sets with molds, cut-outs, plastic knives, etc. But knowing me and the boys, the actual Play-Doh won't last. So off to the Internet I went to search for a good make-at-home recipe. I found multiple, among them this one:
1 cup flour
1 cup water
1 tablespoon oil
1 tablespoon powdered alum
1/2 cup salt
2 tablespoons vanilla
food coloring
Mix all dry ingredients. Add oil and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until reaching the consistency of mashed potatoes. Remove from heat and add vanilla and food coloring. Divide into balls and work in color by kneading the playdough.
I found the alum relatively easily at the grocery store, so I went with this version. Skipped the vanilla, but otherwise followed the directions. Next time I'll reduce the oil! It's a bit greasy for the boys, but I will give it a thumbs-up anyway. Now the food coloring-you can make that call. I think they're only batting .500 on the advertised colors. The pink and purple colors aren't as vibrant and bold in person.
A note to those who might try it. It's an arm-burner! Stirring and stirring...who needs a gym? And I didn't quite know what to make of the "mashed potatoes" in the directions. I just stirred until I got the consistency of... Play-Doh.