Well, there is SO MUCH we can do to decorate our classrooms! Pinterest is overwhelming with all of the possibilities! As someone who has moved classrooms six times, I've developed some quick and easy strategies for making that learning environment welcoming without breaking the bank, though I might've actually broken the bank a couple of times before learning NOT to break it!
1. Decorative Contact Paper
Is your district-issue desk in need of some TLC? Well, look no farther than the Dollar Tree for some decorative contact paper! I change mine as needed. It takes less than ten minutes and is way better than a thirty or forty year old desk surface! It can also work to cover shelves or sides of filing cabinets, as my friend did beside her desk. Instant extra "office space." One roll can cover multiple eyesores and be used to tie your decor together.
2. Table Runners
Table runners can often be found on clearance. They are great for covering poster boxes or creating ambience on counter surfaces in your classroom and can help you define organized spaces.
3. Spray Paint
Spray paint is a game-changer! Take one half of a day and pull a few items out of your classroom onto a drop cloth outside and paint them with spray paint. Often shelves become mismatched hodgepodges needing a little TLC in the classroom. Spray paint ensures your colors are tied together for a less cluttered appearance and can work to define special areas of the classroom, such as reading nooks.
4. Freebie Labels
Freebie labels are out there in SO MANY themes these days! Want owls?
Here are some free chevron owl book bin labels!
The hack is to search in Teachers Pay Teachers, as you would normally, but then select "Sort by: Price (Ascending). Free stuff automatically pops up for your use!
5. Fabric!
Fabric is for bulletin boards, cushion seat covers, and so much more! To use it on a budget, only shop clearance fabrics. We use fabric to cover boring old office chairs. It's always great to have a fresh new look and is a NO SEW project. I tucked the fabric below into the chair frame with just a pair of scissors.
6. One Splurge
Every year, I maintain steps 1-4, but then allow for 1 decorative splurge. A splurge can be ANYTHING- including a set amount of cash at a particular store. This year, my splurge was my light box! I just LOVE light boxes!
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