Craft party shopping list: what to buy and bring

A craft party needs more than paper, glue and paint. You need enough workspace for every child, tools that are safe to share, and a clear way to dry finished projects without smudging them. Plan materials by activity and guest count, then add spares for spills, broken tools and children who want to start again. This list also covers the easy-to-forget items, from table covers and name badges to chilled drinks and coat storage.

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What to bring

Grouped the way you'd shop for it, with quantities.

Furniture

Foldable tablesqty 3
Chairsqty 16
Tableclothsqty 3
Coat rack

Decorations

Balloonsqty 30
Buntingqty 4
Name badgesqty 16
Balloon pump

Equipment

Kettle
Coolersqty 2
Extension cord
Power strip
Drying rackqty 2

Craft supplies

Craft apronsqty 16
Cutting matsqty 8
Children's scissorsqty 16
Glue sticksqty 20
Liquid glueqty 4
Colored pencilsqty 16
Markersqty 16
Wascoqty 8
Paintqty 12
Paintbrushesqty 24
Paint palettesqty 8
Colored paperqty 8
White drawing paperqty 100
Colored cardboardqty 50
Foam sheetsqty 30
Chenille wireqty 100
Wooden ice lolly sticksqty 100
Children's beadsqty 3
Woolqty 6
Punchesqty 4
Child-friendly tapeqty 6

Tableware

Reusable cupsqty 20
Reusable platesqty 20
Cutlery setsqty 20
Serving traysqty 3

Cleaning

Waste binsqty 3
Cleaning clothsqty 6
Broom and dustpan
Vacuum cleaner

Catering

Groceries
- Birthday cake - 1 cake for 16 people
- Whipped cream - 2 canisters
- Cupcakes - 24 pieces
- Mini cucumbers - 2 packages
- Carrots - 2 bags
- Bell pepper strips - 3 peppers
- Grapes - 2 kilogram
- Apples - 16 pieces
- Bananas - 16 pieces
- Plain chips - 2 bags
- Paprika chips - 2 bags
- Popcorn - 2 bags
- Salty pretzels - 2 bags
- Mini Rice Cakes - 2 packs
- Wholegrain crackers - 2 packs
- Hummus - 2 tubs
- Cream cheese - 2 tubs
- Orange juice - 4 liter
- Apple juice - 3 liters
- Cola - 2 bottles
- Cola Zero - 1 bottle
- Lemonade syrup - 2 bottles
- Spa Blauw - 12 bottles
- Spa Rood - 6 bottles
- Coffee - 1 pack
- Tea - 1 box
- Milk - 2 liter
- Oat milk - 1 liter
- Sugar - 1 pack
- Mints - 1 box
- Stir sticks - 1 pack
- Lemons - 4 pieces
- Ice cubes - 2 bags
- Napkins - 2 packs
- Paper towels - 2 rolls
- Toilet paper - 2 packs
- Trash bags - 1 roll
- Dish soap - 1 bottle
- Hand soap - 2 bottles
- All-purpose cleaner - 1 bottle
- Wet wipes - 2 packs
- Freezer bags - 1 box

Tips

Plan one complete craft set per child, plus 10–15% extra materials. Buy spare paper, cardboard, glue and paint because these run out first when children redo a project or spill something.
Allow at least one pair of children’s scissors, one glue stick and one paintbrush for every two children. Add liquid glue, cutting mats and palettes only where the activity needs them.
Cover every workstation before guests arrive. Use tablecloths under paint and glue, and keep a drying rack ready so wet work does not end up on chairs, floors or finished projects.
Set up one supply station instead of putting every material on every table. Keep markers, wasco, coloured pencils, foam sheets, chenille wire and wooden ice lolly sticks within reach, then restock during the party.
Prepare drinks and snacks before the welcome starts. Chill drinks several hours ahead, set out at least one name badge per guest, and keep the kettle, coolers, extension cord and power strip where they cannot become a trip hazard.

Frequently asked questions

How many craft supplies do I need per child?: Plan one main project per child and buy enough core materials for every guest, plus 10–15% extra. For shared tools, one pair of children’s scissors, glue stick and paintbrush per two children is a practical starting point.
What should I buy for a children’s craft party?: Start with paper, coloured cardboard, foam sheets, chenille wire, wooden ice lolly sticks, glue, scissors, drawing tools and paint supplies. Add aprons, cutting mats, tablecloths, a drying rack, name badges, drinks and snacks.
When should I prepare the craft party supplies?: Check and sort all materials at least 2–3 days before the party, then shop for missing items no later than the day before. Set up covered workstations and the drying rack on the day itself.
How many tables and chairs do I need for a craft party?: Give each child a proper workspace and allow room for shared supplies. As a guide, seat 4–6 children per table, with at least one extra chair for an adult helping with instructions or restocking.

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