Let's be honest, bulletin boards can either make your classroom feel warm and inviting or become one more thing on your never ending to-do list. Over the years, I've learned that having the right supplies on hand makes decorating so much easier (and saves a lot of time and frustration.)
Whether you're setting up your classroom for the first time, changing themes throughout the year, or simply refreshing your space, these are my favorite bulletin board supplies that I reach for again and again.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.
1. Fadeless Bulletin Board Paper
If I could recommend only one bulletin board supply, this would be it! Unlike traditional paper that wrinkles and fades quickly, fadeless paper lasts all year. I usually keep several neutral colors on hand because they work with almost any classroom theme.
Teacher Tip: Choose timeless colors like black, white wood, navy, and kraft paper. They make seasonal decorations pop and allow you to reuse your bulletin boards year after year.
Affiliate Link: https://amzn.to/3RHX7Yv
2. Bulletin Board Borders
A good border can completely transform a bulletin board. I love keeping a mix of classic and trendy options in my classroom closet.
Some of my favorites include:
- Black and white stripes
- Boho rainbow designs
- Pastel colors
- Scalloped borders
- Buffalo plaid
- Neutral farmhouse styles
Teacher Tip: Layer two borders together! Adding a thinner border on top of a larger one gives your bulletin board a designer look without spending a lot of money.
Affiliate Link: https://amzn.to/3RoIvNF
3. Hot Glue Gun
A hot glue gun is one of those classroom tools that I never realized I needed until I started using one regularly. From securing bulletin board decorations to fixing classroom materials in a pinch, it has become a staple in my teacher toolbox.
I especially love using a low-temperature hot glue gun because it's quick, easy, and helps decorations stay put all year long, even in classrooms with lots of traffic or fluctuating temperatures.
Teacher Tips: Keep extra glue sticks in a labeled drawer or container. There's nothing worse than being halfway through setting up a bulletin board the night before school starts and realizing you've run out. Also, cordless hot glue guns are a game changer; you'll never have to worry about it losing heat or falling out of an outlet!
Ways I Use My Hot Glue Gun:
- Attaching bulletin board accents
- Repairing classroom decorations
- Securing classroom labels
- Fixing classroom bins and supplies
- Creating DIY classroom projects
Affiliate Link: https://amzn.to/3T3AgXS
4. Velcro Dots
Velcro dots are a classroom lifesaver. I use them for:
- Student work displays
- Calendar pieces
- Classroom jobs
- Name tags
- Seasonal decorations
They make changing bulletin boards quick and easy, especially if you're someone who enjoys updating your classroom throughout the year.
Teacher Tip: Place Velcro on the laminated pieces that are included in the package before storing them. Future you will be so thankful when it's time to redecorate!
Affiliate Link: https://amzn.to/4vzfBYY
5. Laminator and Laminating Sheets
If you're teaching elementary students, a laminator is practically a necessity. I laminate everything—bulletin board letters, classroom signs, labels, and student work displays.
Teacher Tip: Laminate bulletin board pieces at the beginning of the year and store them in labeled zippered bags. This creates a "grab-and-go" system for future classroom setups.
Affiliate Link: https://amzn.to/4aVjQXI
Affiliate Link (Laminating Sheets): https://amzn.to/4aVjQXI
6. Pre-Cut Bulletin Board Letters
Listen, we don't always have time to cut out hundreds of letters after a long day of teaching. Pre-cut letters are perfect during those busy back-to-school weeks.
Teacher Tip: Stick with simple fonts that are easy for students to read. Cute is fun, but readability matters, especially for our younger learners!
Affiliate Link: https://amzn.to/4hkrgHL
7. Command Hooks and Strips
Command products are a must-have in my classroom. I use them to hang:
- String lights
- Classroom signs
- Anchor charts
- Hallway displays
- Pocket charts
- Teacher Clipboards
Teacher Tip: Keep a small container labeled "Command Supplies." It sounds simple, but you'll save yourself from digging through cabinets when you need one in a hurry.
Affiliate Link for Small Wire Hooks: https://amzn.to/4yA2ERJ
Affiliate Link for Medium Wire Hooks: https://amzn.to/3T6v9WY
Affiliate Link for Hanging Strips: https://amzn.to/3Tb96ya
8. Paper Cutter
A paper cutter is one of those supplies you don't realize you need until you have one. It makes cutting borders, signs, and bulletin board pieces so much faster.
Teacher Tip: If you're sharing a paper cutter with your team, consider purchasing an inexpensive personal one. It will quickly become one of your most-used classroom tools.
Affiliate Link: https://amzn.to/4yug0P6
9. Storage Bins for Bulletin Board Supplies
Organization is the key to keeping bulletin boards manageable. I use labeled bins for:
- Borders
- Seasonal decorations
- Letters
- Posters
- Bulletin board sets
Teacher Tip: Store bulletin board borders in poster tubes or hang them on pants hangers to prevent bending and creasing.
Affiliate Link: https://amzn.to/4wPurfd
10. Magnetic Hooks
If your classroom has whiteboards or metal cabinets, magnetic hooks are incredibly useful.
I use mine for:
- Hanging student work
- Displaying anchor charts
- Holding classroom signs and string lights
- Temporary decorations
Teacher Tip: Think vertically! Classroom wall space is limited, and magnetic hooks can help maximize every inch of your room.
Affiliate Link: https://amzn.to/4fF3tRA
Bonus Tips for Stress-Free Bulletin Boards
After teaching for several years, here are a few things I've learned:
- Keep one bulletin board up all year for student work.
- Choose a classroom color scheme you won't get tired of by October.
- Laminate anything you think you'll use again.
- Save bulletin board ideas in a Pinterest folder throughout the year.
- Don't feel pressured to have "Pinterest-perfect" boards.
Your students will remember how your classroom felt far more than whether your borders matched perfectly.
At the end of the day, bulletin boards are meant to celebrate learning, showcase student work, and create a welcoming environment. If your students feel loved, supported, and excited to come to school each day, you're doing an amazing job.
Teaching is hard work, and we spend so much of our own time and money creating spaces our students love. My hope is that these favorite bulletin board supplies help make classroom setup a little easier and give you more time to focus on what matters most...your students.
Happy decorating, teacher friends!
💛 Third Grade Waz Squad
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