We’re gifting our teachers with a few fun Washi Tape Pencil Flags for the first day of school! It was fun to come up with silly things to say on our pencils, something to motivate both teachers and kids for back to school.

Washi Tape Pencil Flags

These are simple to make as we use one of our favorite crafting supplies… washi tape!

These are simple to make as we use one of our favorite crafting supplies… washi tape! If you’ve never crafted with washi tape before, this is a perfect project to start with. Washi tape comes in endless colors, patterns, and themes, which means you can customize your pencils to fit your teacher’s personality, the season, or even your child’s favorite colors. The best part is that it’s inexpensive and easy to find at most craft stores or online.

Not only is this project affordable, but it’s also quick. You can transform a plain yellow pencil into something bright and cheerful in just a few minutes. Kids can even help out by picking the tape patterns or helping wrap them around the pencils. It’s a fun way to get them excited about giving a handmade gift to their teacher.

Make a whole set for your child’s teacher to help them “stay sharp” all year long. Bundle them together with a pretty ribbon, or tuck them inside a pencil pouch or mason jar for an extra special presentation. You could even add a little note or tag that says, “Thanks for helping me shine this year!” or “Here’s to a colorful start to the school year.”

Teacher appreciation gifts don’t have to be expensive or complicated. Sometimes the simplest gestures a thoughtful note, a handmade treat, or a decorated pencil can make the biggest impact. Teachers love knowing that their hard work is noticed and appreciated, and something small like this can brighten their day.

Find the full step-by-step tutorial for this Washi Tape Pencil Teacher’s Gift over at the Family Crafts channel on About.com.

*Originally posted 8/30/15