Back-To-School Supplies That Won’t Break the Bank

By Gabrielle Hester

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It’s that time of year again… Everyone is heading back to school which means lots of back to school shopping. I don’t know about you guys but I always struggle with wanting adorable and unique school supplies without having to spend tons of money.

Let’s face it, we’re in college now so if I can save a buck here or there I am always down. If you struggle with this too don’t worry! I have the perfect solution. I have created back to school supplies without breaking the bank.

I am going to be showing you three different DIY’s that you guys can try out. You can complete these DIYS with supplies you already have at home. I only spent $9 in total on all of the supplies!

To start things off, we have customized notebooks for any style!

Here’s what you will need:

1. Notebooks

2. Patterned paper

3. Scissors

4. Mod Podge, tape or hot glue (I used Mod Podge)

5. Stickers (optional)

This DIY is super simple and took me maybe ten minutes to do all three notebooks!

I started off by measuring how much pattern I would need to fit onto my notebook. Once the paper was measured I cut it to size. I then took a paint brush and applied an even coat of Mod Podge all over the front of the notebook. Then, I  carefully placed the paper onto the notebook.

After, I put a book on top of the notebook to make sure the edges didn’t curl and allowed it to dry. Once it is all dry you can start customizing! I added gold cardstock detail to two of mine and then a lace trim to the other. You can add stickers or label your classes. Do you girl!

Next is customized pencils which is even easier than and just as cute as the first DIY!

Here’s what you will need!

1. Pencils

2. Washi Tape

I just used some pencils I had lying around my house and went out and bought some Washi Tape. So the first step is to think of some designs you want to add to your pencils. I chose to do stripes, triangles and a little tape on the top of the pencil.

This DIY is pretty self-explanatory so just get creative and customize! My favorite part is that no one will have the same pencils as you so you can tell who borrowed one and never gave it back!

Last but not least your very own lace backpack!  (My favorite BTW)

Here’s what you will need!

1. Any backpack you want to spice up

2. A spool of lace or ribbon (your preference)

3. A needle and thread or fabric stickers or hot glue (use whatever you are comfortable with)

This one is a bit trickier than the others but it is adorable! I used an old Jansport backpack from high school and I chose to do lace. Before you begin this DIY layout a draft of your design just to be sure you are pleased with it.

I put lace on the trim where the zipper is on the huge pocket of the backpack and on top of the little pocket in the front. Since I don’t own a hot glue gun or fabric stickers I kicked it old school and attempted sewing the lace trim to the backpack. To my surprise I am not too bad at sewing and the backpack turned out amazing!

I hope you guys enjoyed these DIYs and decide to try some out. If you try them out tag @thechicdaily in a pic of your masterpiece on Instagram! Keep it fashion forward lovelies!