Carry on crafting projects

I'd like to fly with my crafting projects as carry-on (backpack, tote bag, whatever). Think: sewing needle, fabric scissors, glue gun, metal beads, crochet hook, knitting needles.

While non-metal alternatives are available for some supplies, it's not possible for all of them (bamboo needle?) I'm hesitant to put them on carry on because sometimes crafts can be elaborate, delicate, or too time consuming for the standard throw-toss-kick treatment of luggage on some airlines.

I'd like the question to be as generic as possible (I'm a US traveler).

Question: Are there any objects which are not allowed period? What are things to watch out for? Are there any objects one should inform security screeners about? Are there any acceptable alternatives - for example, tiny scissors instead of the large ones above, or kids scissors, or would it not matter as they all contain metal?

Also, would it be permissible to do simple crafts such as sewing, knitting, or crochet while aboard the airplane?