8 Secret Ways to Transform Your Winter Home with School Supplies
- Southwestern Waypoint Team
- Feb 7
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 7
As winter sets in and the temperatures drop, it's the perfect season to engage in fun home projects that can enhance your living space. You might be surprised to learn that common school supplies can take center stage in these creative endeavors. From crafting festive decorations to organizing your home with a warm winter vibe, there are countless possibilities. Here are eight innovative ways to repurpose school supplies for winter home projects.
1. Create Cozy Candle Holders
Turn empty toilet paper rolls into unique candle holders. Simply cover them with fabric or festive paper, and cut out designs that allow the light to shine through. Placing a tea light or LED candle inside creates a cozy atmosphere. This project can be completed in under 30 minutes and costs just a few dollars, making it an affordable winter decoration.

2. Make a Winter Wall Calendar
Craft a wall calendar using poster board or large sheets of paper. Design it to keep track of winter activities and family events. This not only organizes your schedule but also serves as an engaging art project for kids, helping them learn about planning. Studies show that having a visual calendar can increase productivity by 25%.
3. Stylish Gift Wrap from Old Notebook Pages
Instead of traditional wrapping paper, use colorful pages from old notebooks to wrap gifts. This eco-friendly option not only shows creativity but also gives your presents a unique flair. With around 4.6 million tons of wrapping paper thrown out each year in the U.S., using old notebook pages is a great way to contribute to reducing waste.
4. Cozy Snowflake Window Decorations
Cut snowflake shapes from white cardstock or construction paper and tape them to your windows. This simple craft brings the winter wonderland indoors. It’s a visually appealing way to enhance your home, and a small pack of construction paper can cost as little as $3.
5. Recycled Jar Organizers
Collect old glass jars, such as those from peanut butter or spaghetti sauce, to create stylish organizers. Wrap them in twine or paint them to fit a winter theme. These jars are perfect for storing pens, pencils, kitchen utensils, or even small snacks. Using recycled materials can save you approximately 50% compared to buying new storage containers.

6. Customized Ornaments
Gather plain cardboard and turn it into Christmas ornaments. Cut festive shapes, paint them in winter colors, and sprinkle with glitter for sparkle. This is a fun way to involve children in creating personalized touches for your holiday decorations. Families who craft together often report feeling closer and more connected.
7. Indoor Plant Support
Utilize colorful straws or pencils as plant support for indoor winter gardening. This quirky, functional idea adds a splash of color while helping your plants grow strong even in colder months. Using everyday items you already have can save you from making additional purchases.
8. Creative Photo Display
Collect photos from past winters and use colored tape or clothespins to create a visual display on your wall. This nostalgic touch brings warmth to your decor and adds personality to your home. Consider rotating the photos seasonally to keep the display fresh and interesting.
Embracing Winter Creativity
Winter is a fantastic time to let your creativity shine. These eight innovative projects will help you utilize school supplies effectively, transforming your home into a cozy retreat for the season. From crafting unique decorations to creating functional organizers, these activities are enjoyable for both kids and adults. Embrace the winter season with excitement by using what you have on hand, and watch your home become a winter wonderland filled with warmth, creativity, and charm!