Zonker strips and hackle make great quick claws. Dubbing works well for the body for a hairy almost leggy look. Eyes have nee covered, I use 50 ot 75# mono when I used put them on. Experimentation with different materials will give you a good look and then you just have to find out what the fish want.
Larva lace is great, Body stuff is just as good for thicker bodies. Works really well for leg material and can make decent eyes if done right. Vernille will give you the same segmented look. Scrap leather is handy for carapass and underside. Craft foam will give it a more buoyant look ande can slow the fall of a light weight jig.
I love taking my kids fishing, now if I could just manage to fish at the same time.