Could you tell me the name of the craft/toy store on the upper east side (in the 70's I think?).

–Frances

We think you're talking about Mary Arnold Toys on Lexington and 72nd. They have a wonderful selection of craft kits and crafty bits (like lanyard, embroidery thread, and beads). Happy crafting!

I have a few needlepoints my grandmother made that I'd like to have made into pillows. Where should I take them?

–Perri

Alyssa's friend Nancy is a needlepoint addict--she recommends Annie & Co on the Upper East Side. She said they do a fantastic job of finishing and are also very helpful in getting newbies started. If Alyssa ever finishes any of the five projects she's started, she'll take it up there to be finished.

My daughter got really into those old-fashioned "paint by numbers" kits. The paints all arrive in fine condition when you open the box but the varnish is always harder than a stale jawbreaker. What's a good non-toxic varnish, other than clear nail polish?

–Izzy

Remember that father in "My Big Fat Greek Wedding" who used Windex to fix everything? Alyssa always keeps a jar of Mod Podge in the house 'cause it works for just about everything.

We're building a playroom in the basement for our kids. Any inexpensive ideas???

–Cathy

Paint an entire wall with chalkboard paint and let them go at it! Make sure you paint a few coats or it doesn't work so well. If you don't have a wall to spare, you can always paint just a table. Martha will be so happy!