How many craft activities should I plan?

For a 2-hour party, 1-2 craft activities is ideal. Each craft takes 15-30 minutes depending on complexity and age group. Too many crafts leaves no time for games and food. One main craft plus a simple backup is the sweet spot.

What are good craft activities for kids parties?

Popular options: decorating picture frames, making friendship bracelets, painting tote bags, decorating biscuits, making slime, creating masks, building simple models, or decorating plant pots. Choose age-appropriate crafts - simpler for under-5s, more detailed for 7+.

How much extra material should I buy?

Buy 20% extra materials. Children spill paint, make mistakes, and siblings may want to join in. Craft supplies are usually cheap, so the extra cost is minimal compared to running out mid-activity. Some materials (glue, paint) are shared and harder to estimate exactly.

Should I pre-cut materials?

For children under 7, pre-cut everything and have kits ready to go. For older children (7+), some cutting and preparation can be part of the activity. Pre-cutting reduces mess, speeds up the activity, and ensures every child can participate regardless of ability.

PartyCalcs

Craft Activity Calculator — Materials Per Child

Plan craft materials and kits for each child at your party.

Number of Children

Number of Crafts

Material Cost per Child per Craft

Shared Supplies per Craft (glue, paint)

Spare Percentage

How We Calculate This

This calculator estimates total craft material costs including spares and shared supplies.

Formula

Total kits = (children + spares) x number of crafts
Material cost = total kits x material cost per child
Shared supplies = shared cost x number of crafts
Grand total = materials + shared supplies

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Calculators

Party Bag Calculator

Calculate party bag contents and quantities for each child at your kids party. Plan sweets, toys and treats per bag. Free online calculator.

Game Supplies Calculator

Work out all the supplies needed for kids party games and activities, from musical statues to pass the parcel. Free online planning calculator.

Prize Calculator

Estimate how many prizes and rewards you need for kids party games and competitions. Budget for winners and runners-up. Free online calculator.

Cake Candle Calculator

Calculate birthday cake candles, sparklers, toppers and decorations needed for your celebration. Get the perfect cake display. Free online calculator.

Helium Balloon Calculator

Work out the right helium tank size and number of balloons for your kids party or celebration. Includes float time estimates. Free online calculator.

Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates. Adjust quantities based on your guests and event type.