Mix sand, cornstarch, and cream of tartar in an old saucepan. Add hot water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture is very thick and can't be stirred. When slightly cooled, form clay into castles or other shapes. Imprint stone patterns by pressing a bamboo skewer or toothpicks into the wet clay. Cut paper flags and glue them to toothpicks. Push the toothpicks into the clay before it dries.

Allow several days to dry. Store leftover clay in an airtight container. Makes approximately 2 cups. Typed in MMformat by cjhartlin@email. Msn. Com