DIY Back-to-School Teacher Wreath – An Easy Gift That Gets Top Marks

DIY Back-to-School Teacher Wreath – An Easy Gift That Gets Top Marks

There’s just something so heartwarming about gifting a teacher something handmade. Whether it’s the start of a brand-new school year or just a little “thank you” for all the sticky fingers and spelling tests they’ve wrangled—this DIY back-to-school wreath is a fun, cheerful project that anyone can tackle.
And let’s be real—teachers already have enough mugs.
This wreath uses classic school supplies like crayons and pencils, turning everyday items into a whimsical classroom door decoration. Bonus? It’s kid-approved and classroom-ready.

Get more details about this project

What you need

12″ flat wood wreath form (grab one at the dollar shop or craft store)

2 packs of crayons (standard 24-count works well)

1 pack of pencils (sharpened looks cute, but optional)

Chalkboard sign or wooden apple plaque

Ribbon for a bow (think red gingham, primary colours, or apples!)

Hot glue gun & sticks

E6000 glue (for extra durability)

Optional: mini rulers, erasers, paint, buttons, or ABC stickers

Instructions

Lay down some newspaper—things are about to get gluey. Plug in your glue gun and round up your supplies.

 Crayon Circle Magic

Start by laying out your crayons around the wood wreath form without gluing. Play with the spacing a bit—you can alternate colours or do a rainbow sweep around the circle. Once you’re happy, start hot gluing each crayon in place. Keep the wrappers on for colour!

Tip: Add a dab of E6000 under each crayon along with the hot glue to make it extra sturdy, especially if this is going on a classroom door.

3. Pencil Layer (Optional but Adorable)

Add a second ring around the inner or outer edge using pencils. You can even create a sunburst effect by angling them slightly. Again—pre-layout, then glue.

4. Add Your Focal Piece

Glue on a chalkboard sign (you can write the teacher’s name with a paint pen or chalk marker) or a cute apple-shaped plaque. If it’s a chalkboard, let the kiddos write the message themselves!

5. Finish With a Bow

Tie a sweet ribbon into a full bow and glue it to the top or bottom of the wreath. Go as big or as neat as you like—this part’s all about personality!

6. Personalise It!

Add a mini ruler, a little alphabet letter here and there, or even clip-on erasers. Let your creativity (or the kids’) go wild.

Gifting Tip

Pop this wreath into a simple gift bag or wrap in cellophane with a “Welcome Back!” tag. It’s perfect for meet-the-teacher night, the first week of school, or even as a classroom decor boost.

Why Teachers Love This Wreath

It’s thoughtful. It’s handmade. And most importantly—it doesn’t end up forgotten in the staffroom cupboard. This wreath is fun, colourful, and a lovely reminder that their hard work is appreciated from day one.

And hey, if you’re anything like me, once you make one… you’ll be making three more for the other kids’ teachers too.

What do you think of this project? Let us know!