Are your whiteboard pens always running out? Need a quick fix when a student makes a mistake or your classroom display falls apart? As teachers, we rely on an endless list of everyday items - paperclips, glue sticks, staples, sticky notes, and more. Say hello to the Teacher Toolbox, a must-have for any organised classroom. No more digging through drawers or scrambling for stationery mid-lesson, your go-to organiser designed to keep everything you need right at your fingertips. This DIY desk organiser keeps your essential supplies in one place - saving time and keeping your space tidy.
What Is a Teacher Toolbox?
A Teacher Toolbox is a small, multi-drawer storage unit where you keep all your everyday teaching supplies—neatly labelled, easily accessible, and visually appealing. Think of it as your personal classroom command centre.
It’s practical, pretty, and completely customisable. Whether you’re a new teacher or a seasoned pro, this simple DIY project can seriously streamline your classroom setup.
Why Every Teacher Needs a Teacher Toolbox
* Saves time during lessons
* Reduces classroom clutter
* Keeps you organised throughout the school day
* Looks amazing on your desk or shelf
* Helps students learn responsibility by borrowing and returning supplies from one spot
What to Include in Your Teacher Toolbox
There’s no strict list—it’s all about what you use most. Use your TPTC to do list to jot down your must-haves. Here are some popular toolbox items to get you started.
*Paper Clips
*Glue sticks
*Sticky notes
*Rubbers
*Elastic bands
*Sellotape
*Highlighters and pens
*Staples and a trusty stapler
*Stickers and rewards
Step-by-Step Guide to Creating your DIY Teacher Toolbox
Step One: Choose Your contents
Start by writing down the supplies you reach for everyday (using your TPTC to do list of course!) Think about what you use regularly during lessons, marking, or display work.
Step Two: Label and Personalise
Once you’ve decided what to include, it’s time to make it pretty! Label each drawer with clear, easy-to-read titles. You will find the Teacher Toolbox labels to match your favourite planner design within our downloadable display packs.
➡️ Available in PowerPoint or PDF, and easy to edit in Canva!
Step Three: Print Your Labels
For best results, we recommend printing your labels on glossy photo paper (around 200gsm). It gives a high-quality finish that’s durable enough without laminating. Your labels will pop, and your toolbox will look stunning!
Step Four: Assemble and Fill
Apply your labels to each drawer and start filling them with your chosen supplies. And just like that—ta-da! You’ve created a functional, organised, and beautiful DIY Teacher Toolbox. It will be the envy of your fellow teachers and the subjects of ‘oohs’ and ‘ahhs’ from the children
Get Inspired & Share Your Toolbox
We’d love to see your creations! Share your finished Teacher Toolbox on social media and tag us—your design might inspire another teacher.
@the_positive_teacher_company on Instagram
@positiveteacherco on TikTok
Ready to Get Organised?
If you're looking for a simple way to upgrade your classroom organisation, a Teacher Toolbox is the perfect start. It’s functional, stylish, and totally custom to you.
Start building yours today—and make your teacher life that little bit easier!
