You can use your self-cleaning oven as a kiln. Not as hot as a real kiln, so it probably would not work for serious potters, but great for firing clay beads and other small clay items. Run creations through 2 cleaning cycles, then paint with acrylic paints. Fun!
I use a lot of different colors of polymer clay in my jewelry-making, which inevitably means that I end up after a bit of time with otherwise, inadequate scraps in every color. Don't throw out those pieces! Ball them together and make this charming octopus fellow.
If you're looking for some novel craft ideas to help celebrate St. Patrick's Day, why not try making your own polymer clay buttons.