Back-to-School Budget Tips: Give Old Supplies a New Life

Published by

Kurtina PH

on

June 4, 2025

Because every school year doesn’t have to mean spending more!

Before the current school year opens on June 16, 2025, many families are bracing for a round of shopping for new notebooks, pens, bags, and other school supplies that add up fast!

But here’s the good news: you don’t have to buy all new school supplies every year!

Whether you’re a student, a parent, or even a renter trying to budget wisely, here are some smart and crafty ways to rehash last year’s school supplies and give them a new life.

1. DIY Notebooks from Leftover Pages

Still got notebooks with plenty of blank pages left? Don’t throw them away!

Remove the spiral or spring binder carefully.
Gather the clean, unused pages until you have about 80 to 100 of them.
Punch holes and re-bind using colored yarn, thread, or even reuse an old binder ring.
Use thick art paper, old folders, or cardboard for covers.
For a creative touch, decorate the covers with stickers, washi tape, or print trendy designs (K-pop idols, anime characters, motivational quotes, etc.).

📌 Pro Tip: Let kids personalize their notebooks. It makes them more excited to use them!

2. Pencil Case Revamp

Old pencil cases looking worn out? Instead of buying a new one:

Clean it up with soap and an old toothbrush.
Use fabric paint or permanent markers to redesign faded cases.
Add patches, keychains, or even sew on buttons or charms to give it a glow-up.

3. Crayon and Colored Pencil Resurrection

Broken crayons? Short pencils?

Melt crayon bits in silicone molds to create new rainbow crayons.
Use leftover or short pencils for quick drawing kits or travel sketch sets.
Collect stubby art supplies in a small container and label it your “Creative Emergency Kit.”

4. Re-label and Reuse

Don’t waste perfectly good folders, envelopes, or binders just because of an old label.

Peel off old labels or cover them with washi tape.
Print or handwrite fresh subject labels and slap them on.
Use chalkboard stickers or reusable label sleeves for subjects that change often.

5. Backpack Rescue Mission

Before rushing to buy a new bag:

Check if zippers just need oiling (a little candle wax works wonders!).
Patch up holes using fabric scraps and iron-on patches.
Add keychains or pins to make it look brand new and personalized.

Why This Matters

Reusing old supplies isn’t just budget-friendly. It also teaches kids creativity, resourcefulness, and sustainability. Plus, it’s a great bonding activity between parents and kids before school officially starts.

So this school year, let’s be smart, crafty, and kuripot (in the best way). Because being ready for class doesn’t mean you need to break the bank.

🎒 Looking for more practical tips for students, parents, and renters?

Follow KURTINA on Facebook, or join our FB Group for useful, real-life tips and hacks that make every school year and rental life stress-free!

📲 Download the KURTINA app to simplify your rental experience today!

_{**All images CTTO.}