one things I have seen suggested is to spend a little more and get a loupe that fits in the eye (like a monocule) this way you have your hands free.
Also I would buy rechargable batteries, they tend to not last as long as regular batteries but if your not going anywhere.....
also brothers "I wound up asking for was a microscope that I could connect to my desktop" If I'm guessing right your thinking of a USB powered microscope.
great idea with the playdough! Have to remember to wash the razor though cause playdough is kinda salty;)