Classroom Sublimation Projects: Create Your Own Christmas Ornaments

Larry Girty on September 20, 2024

Why sublimation print on blank ornaments as a class project? It’s a great way to connect your students to a centuries-old holiday tradition—with a creative, high-tech twist!

Did you know the earliest Christmas ornaments were created by German glassworks craftsmen in 1597? Most of the original decorations were glass fruit and nuts, warm reminders of summer to bring the evergreen tree through winter.

Yet, tree ornaments only became truly popular 250 years later. 1857 was the year Hans Greiner, the great-grandson of those craftsmen, began selling “baubles”: colorful, spherical “bubbles” made of hand-blown glass. These round Christmas ornaments became a smash hit!

Today, Christmas decor is an $8B industry, and ornaments come in all sorts of shapes, sizes, and materials. Glassworking skills might be a little out of reach for most kids, but sublimation printing is a fun way to create something new at a wide range of skill levels.

Discover how to run a DIY ornament project that works for everyone, tailored to your particular classroom’s unique needs.

How Kids Can Make Christmas Ornaments With Sublimation—In 5 Easy Steps!

There are many ways to engage students in a creative sublimation project. For this project, start by reflecting on a few questions, and use what you know about your classroom to weigh different options.

What Are the Best Types of Blank Ornaments To Personalize?

Consider how the ornaments’ colors, materials, and shapes affect the project. There are a range of options that will work on a technical level. Just make sure whatever ornaments you choose are compatible with the sublimation process.

Quick Review: How Does Sublimation Printing Work?

Sublimation printing uses a unique chemical process to transfer designs onto diverse objects. A design printed on sublimation paper, with sublimation ink, becomes gaseous when heated and pressed against an object’s surface.

In gas form, the printed design integrates into the surface of a sublimation-compatible object. In essence, the vaporous ink dyes the object’s vinyl, polyester, or polymer-coated surface. The vapor dye transforms the colors of the particles or threads composing the object’s surface to reflect the design.

The result is a smooth, single-layer surface, wholly embedded with the design.

Process Differences Guide Material Choices

Sublimation differs from other methods of transferring prints.

For example, heat transfer vinyl methods actually add a thin layer over top of the surface of the object receiving the transfer. The surface of the object itself is unchanged. This layer can chip or peel off over time, so heat transfer vinyl designs have a much shorter lifespan than sublimation printed designs.

In contrast, sublimation actually dyes the material composing the object’s surface, the sublimation ink mixes with the threads’ or particulates’ pre-existing color.

Ornament Color

When sublimation dye ink mixes with colored particulates, the resulting color differs from the one in the original design. Thus, you should only sublimate designs on white, transparent, or light-colored objects. Sublimating directly onto dark reds or greens just won’t work.

That said, there sublimation ornament blanks that incorporate festive colors. The key is making sure those festive elements are outside the sublimation area. As long as the sublimation surface element of the blank ornament is white, the design will work.

Ornament Materials

Likewise, the vaporous sublimation ink needs to connect with a compatible surface in order to dye it. Compatible surfaces are typically polyester or have a polymeric coating. Polymer readily absorbs the vapor. In contrast, glass, ceramic, and most natural fabrics repel the gaseous ink.

There’s good news, though: you can find a wide range of blank Christmas ornaments designed specifically for sublimation.

Some, like cast acrylic or vinyl blanks, are naturally compatible with the sublimation process. Others, like blank glass, wood, and metal ornaments, are also still viable options, as long as they have a sublimation powder coating. Fortunately, these options are available in an array of shapes and sizes.

Ornament Shape

That brings us to shape. For most students, sublimation is easiest when they can press their design onto a flat surface. So, while attachments to sublimate onto spheres and cylinders exist, they aren’t the best choice for a class project. Instead, choose a flat, festive shape, like a snowflake, star, or tree.

Age Group Considerations

When running projects for a diverse group of students, it’s important to adapt or personalize them based on the students’ ages and levels of skill. Consider each student’s:

Dexterity
Technological skill
Attention span
Personal preferences

Some kids may be old enough and skilled enough to design, print, and press their ornament with minimal supervision. Others may require more one-on-one direction, or they may benefit from lighter-weight tools. [this mini heat press] requires less strength and dexterity to use than the conventional, large heat press.

Once you’ve thought through your options, it’s time to start the project!

Step #1. Get Your Materials Ready

Any sublimation project requires a sublimation printer and a heat press.

You might already have both set up in your classroom or maker lab. If so, that’s excellent! If not, try out our best sublimation printer and find out what the right heat press machines are for your space?

In addition to your gear, this project requires a few more materials.

Materials

Sublimation inks
Sublimation paper
Sublimation blanks (i.e. blank ornaments with polymeric coating)
Rubbing alcohol or a similar cleaning agent
Cleaning cloths
Heat-resistant gloves
Cutting tool (optional)
Heat tape (optional)
Photo- or image-editing software
Scanner (optional)

Heat Press Prep Steps

While you won’t use the heat press until Step 4, it’s good to look up the appropriate settings ahead of time. Your sublimation blanks (the blank Christmas ornaments), should come with printed information that explains the following:

Temperature. What temperature should you set your heat press to in order to sublimate onto the ornament?
Duration. During the heat press phase, how long should you press the design to the ornament?
Detailed Instructions. Is there a QR code or link to a video demo or more detailed instructions?

In some cases, there is no printed information. Instead, you have to go straight to the ornament manufacturer’s website.

Missing Info? Learn Through Trial-And-Error

If you can’t find the information there either, then you’ll have to do a few trial-and-error tests.

Try sublimating a basic, printed design onto a test ornament by heating your press to 360℉, then pressing for 60 seconds. If the design doesn’t transfer, increase the heat and duration in small increments and try again.

Step #2. Create Art For Blank Ornaments

Once you’ve gotten the supplies together, it’s time for students to create their designs.

If they’re going to create the artwork for the ornaments digitally, using a program like Pixlr or Canva, skip ahead to Step #3. If, instead, they’re creating art with physical materials, and they’ll digitize them later, read on.

Encourage kids to draw, paint, or collage photos from magazines to create the design for their ornament. They can use holiday imagery like snowmen or reindeer. Or, they can simply create images that depict something meaningful to them personally.

Younger students might benefit from a life-size “template,” printed on regular paper, outlining their ornament’s borders. That offers a sense of the parameters their design has to stay within, to make sure it fits on their decor.

Step #3. Scan, Upload & Edit (Design Phase)

Digitize Physical Works of Art

Once the students have completed their designs in physical materials, upload their pieces into an image-editing app. To do this, photograph or scan their pieces with a scanner. Make sure the resulting digital images have a resolution of 300 dpi sRGB (or greater).

Save each student’s piece under their individual name, as a PNG file. Then, open the piece in an image editing app.

Editing For Print

At this stage, both students who created digital designs on creative apps, and students who made art with physical media and had it digitized, are ready to edit their image for print.

Make sure the image is saved at a high resolution, so the design is sharp when printed on sublimation paper. Teach students how to:

Improve their design’s contrast
Crop or resize the image to fit the ornament
“Mirror” the design as a final step

Note that their design will be re-reversed, or oriented correctly, in the heat press phase. So, if they don’t mirror it before printing, it will be backward on the ornament.

Save and Send

Save the final image as a PNG file. Then, send the image to the sublimation printer.

Step #4 Print Unique Designs On Blank Christmas Ornaments

Send the student’s PNG file to the sublimation printer. Make sure the printer is loaded with sublimation paper and sublimation dye ink. Regular ink and paper will not work!

Once the sublimation printer has inked the design on the sublimation paper, you can go straight to Step #5. That said, some students appreciate an additional step, to make the next step easier.

Optional: Cutting and Taping

Cutting and weeding aren’t necessary for sublimation. But, some students do prefer to cut out their printed design, so it has no borders. This lets them secure the printed design to the ornament with heat tape, keeping it stable and aligned more easily.

If you go this route, make sure the inked side of the cut-out, printed design is the side facing the ornament’s surface. You can secure the design by taping the exterior edge of the ornament and design alike.

Only use a few strips of tape; too much tape will make it harder to peel later.

Step #5. Heat, Press, Peel, and Cool

Ornament Prep

Set the blank ornament on the flat tray of the heat press. Make sure the side you want to sublimate the design onto is facing up.

Lay the sublimation paper on top of the ornament, so the inked design is touching the ornament’s surface. While wearing heat-resistant gloves, press the paper flat against the ornament, preventing any wrinkles or bubbles.

Pre-heat the press to the optimal temperature, determined in Step #1.

Press and Peel

Once the ornament is placed, close and press the ornament and printed design together. Maintain pressure for the recommended duration.

After pressing is complete, let the heat press cool.

Once it’s begun to cool down, gently release the pressure from the ornament. Don’t let the release jostle the paper. As it becomes cooler, move quickly yet steadily, and peel the sublimation paper from the ornament.

Note: “Cool Peel” Paper

Some sublimation papers are labeled “cool peel.” If you use cool peel paper, then wait until the ornament is 100% cool before removing the paper.

If necessary, you can gently transfer the ornament to a separate cooling tray, to free up the heat press. To transfer, hold both the top and bottom of the ornament, to keep the paper in place until it’s ready to peel.

This Christmas, Let All Makers Make Merry! Find Festive Projects For Your Maker Space And Beyond.

Sublimation printing is an excellent method to make beautiful, long-lasting Christmas ornaments. Whether you use them as gifts or outlets for self-expression, these DIY projects make an impact.

At AGC Education, we believe in supporting and cultivating students’ creativity in every phase of life. That’s why we offer the technology to bring kids’ creative visions to life, and the support you need to make the tech work in your classroom.
Call us at 1 (800) 535-7553 to learn more about our sublimation printing equipment, tools, and accessories. Or, use our online contact form to book a free, personalized consultation.

Your Comprehensive Heat Transfer Vinyl Guide

Larry Girty on September 5, 2024

Custom T-shirts, tote bags, aprons, hoodies, and more—all featuring your custom design, brand, or logo. With heat transfer vinyl, creating those custom items yourself becomes far easier. You’ll use an assortment of materials and tools to craft your designs, including a vinyl cutter and specialty vinyl.

If you’re new to creating items with heat transfer vinyl, the process can seem a bit overwhelming. This guide simplifies the process, walking you through each stage to help you kickstart your creation journey.

What is Heat Transfer Vinyl?

Heat transfer vinyl is a type of vinyl that requires heat and pressure to adhere to fabric. Once you craft your design and cut out the vinyl to the correct shape, you can iron the vinyl onto the fabric of your choice. Use it to create custom tees, hoodies, bags, aprons, and more—there are so many fun ways to use heat transfer vinyl!

6 Steps to Creating Custom Designs With Heat Transfer Vinyl

Crafting a custom product featuring your own personalized heat transfer vinyl design entails a handful of steps. Here’s how to get started designing:

1. Gather Your Materials

Before you can start creating your custom artwork, you’ll need to gather a few supplies and tools. You’ll need:

Heat transfer vinyl in a type and color that suits your project
A vinyl-cutting machine
Weeding tools to help remove excess vinyl from the cut design
Heat press or iron to adhere the design to the fabric
Transfer tape, optional (but helpful for intricate designs)
Garment or fabric item, such as a tote bag or T-shirt
Design software

2. Design Your Artwork

The first step in creating custom vinyl artwork is designing it. This is where you can let your creativity take the reins. Let your ideas flow! Dream up a unique design that matches the item you want to create!

Once you have an idea of what you want to make, create the design from scratch in design software. If you’re at a loss for what to make, consider importing a pre-made design. Before you start designing, make sure that the design software you use is compatible with your cutting machine.

Once you’re finished with your design, adjust the canvas size to match the size of your vinyl sheet and the area on your fabric item. Remember to mirror your design before sending it to your cutting machine, too! Since heat transfer vinyl is applied face-down, you have to mirror the design so that it will appear correctly once transferred. If you don’t it’ll all be backwards, which isn’t ideal (especially if your design includes words).

3. Prepare the Vinyl

After designing, it’s time to prep the vinyl for cutting. Slice the vinyl to size, ensuring you leave it slightly larger than your design. Set the vinyl on the cutting mat. If you’re wondering if heat transfer vinyl goes shiny side up or down, the answer is shiny side down. The matte side (this is the side with the adhesive) should face up. If you’re using colored vinyl, the colored side should typically face down.

Once you set the vinyl on the mat, secure the mat and load it into your cutting machine. If you’re not sure how, refer to the manufacturer’s instructions. Each machine is different, so the process can vary slightly.

4. Cut and Weed Your Design

With the vinyl loaded and ready to go, start cutting the design. Select the appropriate material setting on your cutting machine for the type of vinyl you’re using. Once you adjust the settings (if needed), start the cutting process from your software. The machine will handle the hard, precise part of cutting the design onto the vinyl.

After the machine finishes cutting out the design, carefully unload the mat from the machine. Remove the excess vinyl from around the design. This is called weeding. It’s usually easiest to do this with special weeding tools, but you could also use tweezers or a similar tool to pluck the excess vinyl from around your design.

Once you’re done, you should be left with the mirrored design on the carrier sheet.

5. Apply Your Design to the Fabric

Preheat your iron or heat press to the temperature recommended for your specific heat transfer vinyl. Once it’s ready, position the design on your fabric item. This time, the answer to shiny side up or down on heat transfer vinyl is the shiny side (carrier sheet) up. Make sure the fabric is completely smooth without any wrinkles, as this can interfere with your design.

Lay a Teflon sheet or parchment paper over the design and fabric to protect them from direct heat. Use your heat press or iron to apply the design over the fabric. If you’re using a heat press, follow the manufacturer’s instructions. If you’re using an iron, press firmly on the design, moving across all parts to ensure even coverage and solid adherence.

Let the design cool slightly, then peel away the carrier sheet slowly and carefully. If the design lifts from the fabric, lay the carrier sheet back down and apply more heat and pressure.

6. Finishing Touches

After you apply the design, take a closer look to make sure that the vinyl has adhered properly and there aren’t any loose edges. If everything looks good, let the item cool completely before washing or wearing it.

When you need to clean the item, flip it inside out to protect the design while washing. Avoid using high heat in the dryer, as this can interfere with the design.

Dos and Don’ts of Heat Transfer Vinyl

Working with heat transfer vinyl, design software, and vinyl cutting machines can seem overwhelming, but with time and practice, you’ll learn the ins and outs of it all. Here are a few dos and don’ts to help you get started:

Do complete a test cut before cutting your design to ensure your settings are correct.
Don’t forget to flip the item inside out before washing.
Do air dry the item, or, if necessary, dry on low heat.
Don’t wear or use the item before cooling, as this can interfere with the design.
Do double-check your fabric type and recommended heat transfer vinyl settings to avoid issues with the vinyl not sticking.
Do practice with simple designs before moving on to more extravagant and intricate designs.

Start Creating Custom Vinyl Designs With AGC Education

Heat transfer vinyl is the perfect medium for all sorts of projects, from creative seasonal hoodies to adorable, personalized tote bags. There’s so much you can create—the sky is your limit! If you’re ready to begin crafting custom vinyl projects with heat transfer vinyl, we have you covered.

At AGC Education, we have everything you’ll need to get started, including a vinyl cutter and multiple supplies, such as various types of vinyl, and various accessories to complete your creations. Contact us today at 1(800) 535-7553 or complete our online contact form to learn more about our heat transfer vinyl tools and supplies

The Ultimate 3D Printer Maintenance Checklist

Larry Girty on September 5, 2024

Maintenance is an essential part of having a 3D printer. Like any machine, it needs a bit of care and upkeep from time to time to ensure it remains in working order. Whether you’re new to 3D printing or have an entire collection of custom 3D prints you’ve made, you’ll need to take care of your printer.

The must-do maintenance tasks vary from day to week, week to month, month to quarter, and quarter to year. By completing these tasks, you can avoid issues like clogged nozzles, poor print quality, and mechanical malfunctions, ultimately maximizing your printer’s lifespan. Here are the tasks to add to your 3D printer maintenance checklist.

What are 3D Printers?

A 3D printer, or three-dimensional printer, is a machine that creates a three-dimensional object using information from a digital model. It adds layers of plastics, such as composite or bio-materials, on top of each other to create the final product. These machines are incredibly versatile and can be used for a wide range of projects, from school science projects to functional crafts (like a planter or desk organizer).

The Importance of Regular Maintenance

Like any machine, 3D printers need regular maintenance. They don’t last forever, but with proper care and upkeep, you can give them the best chance at lasting the longest. Without proper maintenance, you might run into issues such as clogged nozzles, poor print quality, and inconsistent filament extrusion. So, it’s best to stay on top of 3D printer maintenance tasks.

Daily Maintenance Tasks

If you use your 3D printer daily, complete these maintenance tasks. Even if you don’t use your printer daily, it’s still a good idea to complete these tasks after each use.

Clean the Print Bed

A clean print bed is essential to ensure the print adheres well and doesn’t end up as a failed mess. So, follow the manufacturer’s recommended cleaning instructions. Generally, this involves cleaning with a lint-free cloth and isopropyl alcohol to ensure the bed is debris-free.

Inspect the Nozzle

Clogged and damaged nozzles can affect print quality. Before and after each print, take a look at the nozzle. Look for filament build-up or blockages. If you find issues, use a nozzle cleaning needle or a piece of fine wire to clear debris. If the clog is severe, a replacement might be necessary.

Check Filament Quality

Good-quality filament is essential to produce quality prints. Check your filament for signs of damage or issues, such as moisture absorption, brittleness, or tangling. To ensure that the filament remains in prime condition, store it in a dry, sealed container with desiccant packs when you’re not using it.

Weekly Maintenance Tasks

Some maintenance tasks need to be done frequently, but not quite as often as daily. Here are a few weekly tasks to add to your to-do list:

Lubricate Moving Parts

Each week, lubricate the moving parts. Proper lubrication helps ensure everything can move smoothly, reducing friction and wear on moving components. If you’re not sure what oil or lubricant to use on your 3D printer, check the manufacturer’s instructions.

Tighten Belts and Screws

Take a peek at the belts and screws that allow the system to function. If these are loose, they might cause poor print quality and mechanical hiccups. So, check all belts for proper tension and tighten loose screws you come across. Don’t overtighten either—ideally, both should be taught but not overly tight.

Calibrate the Bed Level

The print bed needs to be level to ensure that the print turns out well. If it’s tilted in any direction, the print may not adhere properly, and the final print quality might be poor. Use a piece of paper or a feeler gauge to verify its level, checking the distance between the nozzle and bed at multiple points.

If necessary, adjust the bed level using the calibration knobs or screws.

Monthly Maintenance Tasks

Select a day each month to tick off your monthly 3D printer maintenance tasks, including:

Deep Clean the Extruder

The extruder needs to remain clean and unobstructed to ensure consistent filament feeding and print quality. Each month, disassemble the extruder and thoroughly clean each component. While you’re cleaning, inspect each component for signs of wear or damage and replace parts as needed.

Inspect the Cooling Fans

The cooling fans on your printer help prevent overheating and improve print quality. Check the fans, removing any dust and debris using compressed air. Confirm that the fans are spinning freely—if you find one that is noisy or not functioning properly, replace it.

Check Electrical Connections

If your printer’s electrical connections are loose or damaged, they could become a safety hazard and cause printer malfunctions. Inspect all electrical connections, checking for signs of wear or damage. Replace any frayed or damaged wires.

Quarterly Maintenance Tasks

Every quarter, complete these maintenance tasks:

Update Firmware

Firmware updates can boost your printer’s performance and fix known issues. While an update might not be available every quarter, it doesn’t hurt to check. You can find available updates on the manufacturer’s website. Generally, you’ll find instructions on how to update the printer’s firmware there, too.

Inspect the Hot End Assembly

The hot end assembly is integral for proper filament extrusion. Each quarter, take apart the hot and examine each component for wear or damage. If necessary, replace worn or damaged parts. Before you put it all back together, clean each part thoroughly.

Examine the Frame and Structural Components

Your printer needs a sturdy frame to do its job. If the frame is loose or damaged, the printer might not be able to accurately print your projects or might encounter mechanical hiccups. So, take a peek at the frame. Look for signs of loosening or damage. Tighten loose bolts and screws to ensure that the frame is square and level.

Annual Maintenance Tasks

Pick a day each year to complete all of the tasks that require annual attention, including:

Replace Worn Components

After a while, the parts on your 3D printer might begin to wear out, especially if you use it frequently. So, each year, inspect all major components, including the belts, rods, and bearings. If they look tired and ready for retirement or damaged, replace them.

Fully Calibrate the Machine

It’s important to fully calibrate your machine at least once each year. This ensures your printer performs optimally, and while it might take a while, it’s good to do it at least once a year. Follow your printer’s calibration procedures and use calibration prints to fine-tune settings and ensure accuracy.

Perform a Safety Check

Confirm that your printer is still functioning safely and efficiently each year. Thoroughly inspect all components, especially the electrical components, for signs of wear or damage. Make sure that all safety features, such as thermal cutoffs and fuses, are functioning as they should. If your printer has an enclosure, confirm that it’s secure and well-ventilated.

Start Printing With AGC Education

A well-maintained 3D printer can operate smoothly and efficiently, helping you create all sorts of projects, from school projects to room decor. With regular daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annual maintenance, you can keep your printer running in tip-top shape, ensuring it’s always ready for your next project.

If you’re ready to start creating 3D projects with a printer or need a few items for your 3D printing projects, we’re here to help. At AGC Education, we offer everything you’ll need to get started, including 3D printers, printer enclosures, and all sorts of supplies. Contact us today to learn more.

10 Cool School Signage Ideas

Larry Girty on July 19, 2024

Plain, undecorated schools can be dull and uninspiring. Well-designed custom signage can change that, transforming a dull and uninteresting school into a brighter, more inviting learning environment. Your custom creations can brighten classrooms, entrances, and hallways, making your school more engaging and welcoming for students, staff, and visitors.

Classroom Signage

Classrooms can be drab and boring, but they don’t have to be. You can incorporate all sorts of fun signage to spice up the space, adding character and personality that makes it feel more welcoming.

1. Educational Posters

Make the not-so-interesting lessons more engaging with educational posters. You could make posters for historical timelines, language charts, times tables, scientific diagrams, and more.

They can help reinforce learning concepts and keep your students engaged, giving them something interesting to look at while you teach the lesson. Incorporate bright colors and intriguing visuals to keep things interesting.

2. Inspirational Quotes

Inspirational quotes are a staple decoration piece in most schools. They motivate and inspire students to keep striving toward new goals. So, if your classroom is looking a bit drab, add a splash of inspiration with a few of your favorite quotes.

Print them out on posters or as vinyl cut-outs. For added bonus points, switch between a few of your favorite inspirational quotes throughout the school year to keep things fresh. For extra added bonus points, coordinate your inspirational quote changes with your lesson plans.

3. Interactive Boards

Give your students a better idea of what to expect with an interactive board. You could choose a dry-erase or chalkboard surface for easy updates or a bulletin board to swap out printed elements. You could also attach a smaller dry-erase or chalkboard to a larger bulletin board for the best of both worlds.

Make the board more interesting by adding fun elements, like cartoon depictions of animals, books, or school supplies. Stay up-to-date on seasonal decor by swapping elements for each season, such as fun wreaths for Christmas, painted eggs for Easter, or spooky ghosts for Halloween.

On the chalkboard or dry-erase portion, add new things each day, such as a question of the day, classroom jobs, or the day’s learning objective.

4. Student Work Displays

Celebrate your students’ achievements by displaying their work on a designated board, like a bulletin board. You could let them display their art projects, essays, and even science experiments (if they’re displayable).

You could even create a dedicated “Wall of Fame” for outstanding work. The work could rotate weekly, monthly, or even yearly, giving students something to work toward. It can be a fun way to encourage hard work and inspire creativity among your students.

Hallway Signage

The hallways can be a neglected place in schools, often left bare and overlooked. Spicing them up doesn’t have to be hard. A few well-placed, brightly colored, and well-designed signs can go a long way in making the space feel more inviting.

5. Directional Signs

Navigating a large school can be daunting for students, especially if they’re new to the school. So, make it easier for them by adding directional signs to help them navigate the school. Put clear signs with arrows pointing toward key areas, such as the library, auditorium, gym, or cafeteria. Bonus points: Use school colors for each sign.

6. Themed Hallway Displays

Create a fun and immersive environment for students by adding themed hallway displays. Choose a theme for each hallway, changing it out periodically to keep things interesting.

If you teach elementary students, you could let each grade vote on a theme, such as storybook characters or seasons, for each main hallway. Or, if you teach high school students, you could let each grade’s art class create custom signage to represent the class.

Seasonal themes, historical periods, and book characters are a few options that can spice up the space, but they’re just the tip of the iceberg. Let your students get creative and choose themes that they want and love (within reason, of course).

7. Bulletin Boards

While less interesting than themed hallway signs, bulletin boards are another way to add to a school hallway. They’re the perfect place to share important information and announcements about upcoming events, school news, and student achievements.

If you’d like, you could add interactive elements, like Q&A sections or polls.

9. Motivational Murals

Motivational quotes aren’t just for classrooms—add them to the hallways, too! Print them on oversized posters, cut each word out of vinyl letters, or make collages with smaller elements—there are so many creative ways to incorporate these murals.

Choose bright colors to add visual intrigue to the space, incorporating voted-in inspirational messages into murals on the various open walls of the school.

You can get creative with how you integrate each motivational mural. For example, let’s say you teach high school students. If your school is open to it, you could let the art class from each senior class paint a mural on a designated wall, letting them help design and create the final product.

School Entrance Signage

Another great place to add signage is the entrance of a school. It can serve a dual purpose, adding a touch of visual intrigue and informing visitors, students, and staff alike.

Welcome Signs

Welcome signs are a must at any school entrance. They help create a welcoming atmosphere for students, staff, and visitors, conveying warmth and hospitality to each person. Use your signage tools to create fun welcome signs, each featuring friendly fonts and vibrant colors to add a welcoming note.

If you’d like, you can change the welcome signs by season or school year. You could even let a group of students (think art class) design and create the welcome sign for each year!

10. Upcoming Event Posters

Advertise upcoming events, such as dances, plays, or fundraisers, with posters at the school entrance. Let the event organizers design and create welcoming posters that inform and encourage attendance. Choose eye-catching colors and put essential information in bold font to make it clearly visible.

Tools to Make Your Own Signs at School

If you’re ready to start crafting your own signs at school, you’ll need a few things before you can get started. Your must-haves list should include:

Design Software

If you’re creating your own custom signs, you’ll need to have some sort of design software. There are many options out there, including Canva and Adobe Spark, each with something different to offer. With this software, you can use design elements and templates to create customized but professional-looking signs.

Printing Tools

Sending each of your creations to a print shop can quickly become expensive, especially if you’re printing a considerable amount of posters and pieces for a school. Tools like high-quality printers, poster printers, vinyl cutters, and laminators can bring professional-grade printing capabilities to your school, saving you money in the long run.

Craft Supplies

While printing tools are a must, you won’t get far without craft supplies on which to print your designs. You’ll need various supplies, such as adhesive-backed vinyl, poster paper, and ink cartridges, to get started with your creations.

These supplies can help you transform your school’s classrooms, hallways, and entrances, morphing it from a dull and boring space to a bright and engaging environment. Whether you infuse creativity by letting your students craft the signage or add your own flair by designing it yourself, custom signage can be a great way to inspire students to learn, create a sense of belonging, and foster a positive educational experience.