6 Awesome Ways To Upgrade Your School Supplies

Even if you aren't in high school anymore, there will still always be a place in your heart for cute DIY school supplies. Going to the store to stock up on pens, pencils, and binders remains one of your favorite fall activities, but instead of spending a bunch of money on new supplies this year, try going the DIY route. These cool ideas by Hometalk bloggers will instantly upgrade your plain, boring notebooks into glittery works of art. Paper towel rolls get new life as pencil cases, and clipboards get a major, colorful update. Here is everything you need to start the new semester in style.

It's widely accepted that the most exciting part of starting school is school supplies. Fresh notebooks, colorful sticky notes, brand new pens — you can almost smell that printer paper in the air! But if there's one thing to cramp your back-to-school style, it's those jaw-dropping price tags. You know printer ink will be a splurge, but new binders? That was not part of the deal.

Instead of spending your cash on expensive supplies, check out these clever ideas from Hometalk bloggers for turning simple (read: cheap!) school supplies designer, and making your own back-to-school fun.

1. Glitter-ize Your Notebooks

Add a drop of glamour to your first day back in the classroom by covering your plain ol' marble notebooks in sparkling gold glitter. Even non-students can enjoy this update for a planner or diary.

Project via Giustina @Domestically Blissful

2. Turn Paper Towel Rolls Into Pencil Cases

That's right — this one is so inexpensive, it's an upcycle! Turn an empty roll of toilet paper into a super stylish pen and pencil carrier by covering it in colorful duct tape and adding a zipper.

Project via Larissa @Prodigal Pieces

3. Make A Succulent Pen Holder

Spruce up your desk with this brilliant decoration and pen organizer in one. What could be better? Plus, these succulents won't die on you over vacation.

Project via Amanda @Dwelling in Happiness

4. Use The Rest Of Your Paper Towel Rolls For A Supply Caddy

Keep your work space clutter-free with a no-cost caddy made from paper towel rolls, wrapping paper, and twine. Add as many levels as your school supply addiction demands!

Project via Jen @Pink When

5. Turn Basic School Supplies Into A Colorful Set

If you needed another reason to love washi tape (as if!), you can use it to turn your mismatched school supplies into a band of colorful pals ready to start the year off fresh and fine.

Project via Sondra @Sondra Lyn at Home

6. Give Boring Clipboards An Exciting (And Soft!) Update

Coat an ordinary clipboard in colorful fabric, and add a cute and convenient pocket along the bottom to give your organization a wild pop of pretty.

Project via Bre @Average But Inspired

Want more amazing school projects, ideas, and how-tos? Check out the Back to School page on Hometalk for lots more fun!