Top 5 Essential Teacher Must Haves for Decorating Your Classroom

You are going to love these teacher must haves your need for decorating your classroom! Setting up a classroom is one of the most exciting parts of preparing for the school year. It’s your chance to create a space that reflects your teaching style, engages your students, and feels like home. But let’s be real—decorating can also be a bit overwhelming without the right tools. The good news? There are some game-changing supplies that make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Here are my Top 5 Tools Teacher Must Haves Decorating Your Classroom that I think every teacher (or classroom decorator!) needs:

1. Fiskars Spring-Assisted Scissors

If you’ve ever cut out what feels like a million letters or borders, you know how tough it can be on your hands. That’s why Fiskars Spring-Assisted Scissors are a lifesaver. Their spring-action design reduces hand fatigue and makes cutting through thick paper, laminate, or fabric a breeze. When I first bought these, I HATED them! They felt so awkward to hold. Another creator encouraged me to keep going and I swear I can cut faster than ever. I highly recommend putting on your favorite show and cutting from the comfort of your couch.

Why I Love Them:

Ergonomic design means less strain on your hands.
Perfect for cutting intricate shapes or repetitive tasks.
Durable enough to last you multiple school years.

Whether you’re crafting bulletin board titles or trimming posters, these scissors will become your best friend and the most important teacher must have!

2. The Oregon Stapler

Meet the classroom stapler you didn’t know you needed. The Oregon Stapler is heavy-duty and designed to handle even the thickest bulletin boards without jamming. You don’t think a stapler would make that big of a difference – but let me tell you, IT DOES! I don’t think I will ever buy another stapler.

Why I Love It:

Open it up to lay flat and staple onto a bulletin board with ease
It staples with ease, even through multiple layers of paper and fabric.
The sleek design fits comfortably in your hand.
Built to last (no more yearly replacements!).

With this stapler, you’ll spend less time wrestling with jammed staples and more time perfecting your displays. This stapler is a top contender for teacher must haves.

3. Personal Laminator

A personal laminator is a teacher must have for any teacher who loves reusable classroom decor. I have the Scotch Laminator but I have heard great things about the Amazon Laminator too. This little machine lets you laminate name tags, center activities, posters, and more—all without waiting in line at the school laminator. I have the

Why I Love It:

Compact and easy to use at home or in the classroom.
Protects your materials from spills, tears, and wear.
Perfect for preserving student work or custom decorations.

I recommend keeping a stash of laminating pouches on hand so you can quickly prep anything you need!

4. Better Than Paper Bulletin Board Paper

If you haven’t tried Better Than Paper Bulletin Board Paper yet, you’re missing out. This magical product makes setting up your bulletin boards a breeze. I opted for a neutral timeless print but there are SO MANY to choose from! I’ve had for 7 years and it’s still in perfect condition! This paper is an ultimate contender for teacher must haves.

Why I Love It:

No more wrinkles or bubbles—it goes on smooth every time.
Easy to clean with a damp cloth (hello, longevity!).
Comes in a variety of colors and patterns to match any classroom theme.

Bonus: You can reuse it year after year, making it an eco-friendly and cost-effective option.

5. HP Printer with Instant Ink

Gone are the days of running out of ink at the worst possible moment. With an HP Printer with Instant Ink, you’ll always have what you need to print those last-minute decorations or classroom handouts. You can use my referral link and we both will earn a free month of Instant ink!

Why I Love It:

Affordable and reliable printing for all your classroom needs.
Instant Ink subscription ensures you never run out of ink.
High-quality prints for everything from posters to center labels.

Pair this with some bright cardstock, and you’re ready to create professional-looking decor in minutes.

Final Thoughts on Teacher Must Haves

Decorating your classroom should be fun and stress-free, and these tools are here to help. Whether you’re cutting, stapling, laminating, or printing, having the right supplies can make all the difference.

What are your teacher must haves for classroom decorating? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear about your favorites!

Happy decorating! 🌟