Alternatives to Polymer Clay?? i.e. salt dough

[eggwash.livejournal.com]

I'd like to start some clay projects but was stunned by the cost of polymer clay when i visited the craft store yesterday. I'm not ready to invest yet - I'd like to experiment with some less expensive stuff first.

Does anyone have a recipe for salt dough or other self hardening or bake-able or air drying clay type stuff that i could mix together at home?

I have a vague recollection of making some dough in elementary school that we molded and baked and painted....

thanks!