Fun and Easy Back-to-School Crafts: Creative Ideas for a Great Start to the School Year

Back-to-school season is more than just pencils and lunchboxes — it’s a time of excitement, creativity, and fresh beginnings. Whether you're a parent looking for engaging projects, a teacher preparing for the first day of school, or a camp counselor planning themed activities, this guide to fun and easy back-to-school crafts is your one-stop shop for inspiration.

We’ve compiled over 30+ creative, age-appropriate, and budget-friendly craft ideas that are perfect for welcoming the new school year with enthusiasm. From pencil toppers to first-day-of-school photo props, these crafts are designed to be stress-free, using basic supplies and minimal prep.

DIY Pencil Toppers and Accessories

Pipe Cleaner Pencil Toppers (Ages 5+)

Supplies: Pipe cleaners, googly eyes, glue, pom-poms
Step-by-Step:

1. Wrap a pipe cleaner around the top of a pencil in a spiral shape.
2. Glue a pom-pom to the top as the “head.”
3. Add googly eyes and draw a smile for a character.

Felt Animal Pencil Toppers (Ages 6–10)

Supplies: Felt sheets, Excel Blades Scissors, hot glue, marker pens
Step-by-Step:

1. Cut two identical animal shapes from felt.
2. Use glue to secure the edges, leaving an opening to insert the pencil.
3. Decorate with eyes and other facial features.

First Day of School Crafts

“All About Me” Paper Dolls (Ages 5–9)

Supplies: Printable paper doll templates, crayons, scissors, markers
Step-by-Step:

1. Print and cut out the paper doll template.
2. Color in the hair, face, and clothes to match the student.
3. Write 3 fun facts about themselves on the back.

First Day Photo Frames (Ages 6–12)

Supplies: Foam board, paint, stencils, stickers, glue, Excel Blades Swivel Knife Paper Cutter
Step-by-Step:

1. Cut out the center of the foam board to make a frame.
2. Paint and decorate with stickers and stencils.
3. Add “First Day of ___ Grade” at the top.

DIY Backpack Keychains (Ages 7–12)

Supplies: Shrinky dinks, permanent markers, jump rings, keychain rings
Step-by-Step:

1. Draw and color a design on shrinky dink plastic.
2. Cut it out and bake as directed.
3. Attach to the keyring using jump rings.

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Welcome Back Bulletin Board Craft

Welcome Apples (Ages 5+)

Supplies: Red construction paper, green leaves, marker, glue
Step-by-Step:

1. Cut large apple shapes from red paper.
2. Let kids write their name and one fun fact.
3. Glue leaves on top and add to the bulletin board.

Name Banners (Ages 6–10)

Supplies: Colored paper, twine, hole punch, markers
Step-by-Step:

1. Cut triangles or rectangles for the banner.
2. Decorate with each student's name.
3. Hole punch the top and string together on twine.

DIY Classroom Supplies

Personalized Pencil Cases (Ages 7–12)

Supplies: Canvas pouches, fabric markers, stencils
Step-by-Step:

1. Lay flat on a Self-Healing Mat.
2. Use stencils and markers to design their name.
3. Let dry and use all year long.

Decorated Notebooks (Ages 6+)

Supplies: Plain notebooks, washi tape, stickers, stencils, Craft Scissors
Step-by-Step:

1. Use washi tape to create border designs.
2. Add stickers and custom cut shapes with the knife.
3. Personalize with names and subjects.

Back-to-School Memory Keepsakes

First Day Handprints (Ages 5–8)

Supplies: Paint, cardstock, markers
Step-by-Step:

1. Paint child’s hand and press onto cardstock.
2. Let dry, then add name, date, and age.
3. Decorate with stickers or drawings.

Time Capsule Jars (Ages 7–12)

Supplies: Mason jars, slips of paper, ribbon
Step-by-Step:

1. Have kids write down their favorite things on paper.
2. Fold and place inside jar.
3. Seal with a lid and add a ribbon and label for “Open on Last Day.”

Crafts for Teachers and Counselors

Desk Name Plates (All Ages)

Supplies: Cardstock, markers, stickers, washi tape
Step-by-Step:

1. Fold cardstock in half to create a tent shape.
2. Let students decorate with their names.
3. Place on desks for an organized classroom.

Teacher Survival Kits (Gift Idea)

Supplies: Mini boxes or jars, hand sanitizer, mints, tissues, notes
Step-by-Step:

1. Fill a box with small comfort items.
2. Add a student-written note.
3. Label “Teacher Survival Kit” on the lid.

Welcome Bookmarks (Ages 6–10)

Supplies: Colored cardstock, ribbon, hole punch
Step-by-Step:

1. Cut rectangles from cardstock.
2. Decorate with quotes and images.
3. Punch a hole and add a ribbon.

Printable Crafts and Templates

Use these free online resources for printable templates:

• Back-to-School Printables
• Scholastic Teacher Resources

Pair with Excel Blades Hobby Hub and Excel Blades Tool Corner for detailed DIY craft ideas and tool education.

Recommended Craft Tools & Supplies - For Adult Use

Add professional-quality tools to your back-to-school projects:

• K18 Grip-on Knife — For precise paper cutting.
• Self-Healing Cutting Mat — Keeps tables safe.
• Craft Scissors — Ideal for small shapes and edges.
• Craft Tweezers — Place small stickers with ease.
• Circle Cutter — Make perfect circles for frames or art.
• Helping Hands with Magnifier — Great for precision gluing or painting.
• Magnivisor — Ideal for detail work on small crafts.

Crafting doesn’t need to be complex to be meaningful. These easy back-to-school crafts spark imagination, help kids feel more prepared for the year ahead, and bring joy to classrooms and homes alike.

Whether you’re a parent looking for bonding time, a teacher setting the tone for the year, or a counselor building community, these creative ideas are your go-to starting point.

Ready to get crafting? Shop high-quality cutting and crafting tools here.

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