Maggie's Farm

We did a lot of crafts.

My uncle worked in the printing trades so when we visited we had thick pads of blank paper which I assume were cutoffs from printing jobs. And plastic tubs full of crayons. (because that generation "recycled" jars and containers without being self-congratulatory) No coloring books!!

We also enjoyed lanyard work, also known as scoubidou. USA-made Rexlace is available on Amazon. My sister also did bead work - which is huge on the internet.

There are lots of nice table-top looms that would be suitable for young people. Easiest to start with rigid-heddle looms.

I also remember making enameled copper pendants and (gasp!) ashtrays. little table-top kiln thingy and enamel powder. Pre-cut copper blanks, or you can cut your own. You can get the same effect with modern acrylic paints that stick to everything, including glass - there are even markers.

Similarly, we had markers and crayons with (relatively) permanent fabric dye. Draw on your t-shirt, then iron to set.

Don't forget paper mache - newspapers, bucket, drill with paint mixer, bottle of glue.

Also plaster casting. Tons of cheap molds in the craft stores, and lots of decoration options.

For children old enough not to eat it, FIMO and other polymer clays are excellent. My kids made my wife a beaded necklace that she still wears. You may want to buy a small toaster oven to bake it, or bake it in disposable aluminum pans to avoid chemicals in your oven.