Not all play dough recipes are created equal. This one that I pilfered from my mom's recipe box is excellent (I usually half it):
PLAY DOUGH
2 c flour
1/2 c salt
2 c water
2 T oil
2 T cream of tartar
food coloring
I put everything in a cold pot and mix well. Once mixed, turn on the heat to med-hi and stir until dough and no longer sticky (this happens pretty quickly).