As educators, we’ve all been there, dipping into our own pockets to pick up those added extras for our classrooms. Creating a visually stimulating learning environment isn’t always easy when budgets are thin (or non-existent 🙄). The good news is it’s not impossible.

Here are just a few ideas for decorating your classroom inexpensively with maximum impact.

1. Use free resources for teachers – no need to overspend.

Cheap classroom decorating ideas don’t have to look cheap. You’ll find a variety of free resources for decorating your classroom by signing up for my free resource library. By becoming a BFF, you’ll get instant access to a whole library of decor, printables and free resources.

You can find ‘Amazing work coming soon’ and ‘First day of school’ posters in the free resources library. 

2. Use what you have – you might be surprised.

Creating an inviting classroom on a budget begins with using what you already have at home. Repurpose items like cushions, plants, and old furniture to add a cozy touch. You could turn your old mirror into a stunning affirmation station or reuse old fabric to easily add color and texture to bulletin boards. Embracing the "use what you have" approach not only saves money but also adds a personal touch to your classroom, reflecting your unique style.

Affirmation station labels and Bulletin Board Borders are great (and affordable) ways to decorate your space. 

3. Shop the sales – everyone loves a bargain.

Second-hand stores can be a great place to find items that can be easily repurposed and online ‘buy-nothing’ platforms designed for swapping or reusing items can also be a great resource.

Discount stores and the clearance section are great places to spot a bargain, especially at the end of a season. Think ahead and if you spot a great buy for next year, stock up.

Don’t forget that signing up for our mailing list also gives you access to special discount codes and sales year-round.

4. Bundle it up – save time and money.

Taking advantage of a classroom bundle means you’ll get everything you need for a theme both you and your students will love, all together, in one affordable package.

No more researching and hunting for different items from different places, trying to match everything into the same theme/vibe. One bundle and you’re done. Everything matches; it looks great and you’ll get extra value (including extra decor items) for less time and money than searching for and buying items individually.

The Cute Sea Life Decor bundle for example comes with 35+ different resources.

5. Only pay for exactly what you need – more isn’t always more.

When it comes to classroom decor, bundling can be a fantastic money-saving strategy. By bundling, you ensure that you're only paying for the essentials, avoiding unnecessary expenses. While subscription services may promise convenience, they run the risk of charging you for items you won't actually use. Embrace the philosophy that more isn't always more, and focus on precisely what you need to create a budget-friendly and purposeful learning environment.

Just pay for what you need and get everything you need to decorate your space in one decor bundle. Product: the Boho Plants decor bundle.

6. Reuse and recycle your decor – it’s about working smarter, not harder.

Invest in items that are reusable or editable such as our range of editable posters. You’ll get more mileage out of your decor, save money and you can feel great knowing you cutting back on single-use waste.

It also helps to be clever with your organization and use everyday items you might already have at home such as tubs, bins and containers to store smaller items or keep your supplies tidy and together.

Well-labelled storage also ensures you know exactly what you already have and where it’s kept so you don’t end up losing, re-buying or damaging items in the storage shuffle. You can find a variety of labels, tags and more helpful organization products here.

These editable posters are from the Daisy Gingham Neutrals collection and the Teacher Toolbox labels are from the Spotty Boho collection. 

 7. Team up – share and swap with your fellow teachers.

Partnering up with your fellow teacher besties means you can do clever cost-saving things like buying in bulk and stretching your dollar. You can swap books for your teacher library, share teaching resources or even pitch in together and choose multiple classroom decor themes you can share and swap between you throughout the year. That way everyone wins; especially your wallet.

You might also find that different teachers will use items in different ways you might not have considered, so it’s a great way to get a bit of creative inspo too.

If you and your teacher bestie buy 1 decor bundle each (like this Spotty Boho one), you can share and swap to have the best of both worlds.

8. Get creative – get collaborative.

Designing a welcoming classroom is essential for both you and your students. Get creative, involve your students, and keep it affordable. For example, working together on a budget-friendly, colorful bulletin board with their artwork adds a personal touch. Keep the process simple and enjoyable, maintaining a positive and inclusive atmosphere in your classroom.

A bit of ingenuity and creativity are great for them, easier on the budget and ultimately provide a space where they feel included.

Need more affordable ideas and tips for decorating your classroom?

Finding affordable ways to make your classroom look great can be done for less. And if you need more suggestions on useful items that have been tried and tested by yours truly, you’ll find a range of my favorite things from teacher toolboxes and calendar pockets to storage solutions and desk caddies on my Amazon storefront. 

 

You can find student desk caddies like this one (to match your cute classroom labels) on my storefront.

If you’re new to teaching or have no idea where to start. Check out my classroom decor inspiration blog for ideas and inspo for your setup.