Labeling Plastic Drawers/Bins/Shelves the Easy Way!

I am in {LOVE} with my new drawers for centers. There are 12 drawers in a set and they get great use as our Math, Word Work, and iPad Center holders.

One thing I wanted to make sure of was having easy-to-read labels that could be changed often, as our centers will change and *if you know me* I change my mind a lot when it comes to organizing my classroom :) This tip works well on any plastic or laminate surface.

My solution: Post-It Notes & Book Tape


Have you ever heard of Scotch Book Tape? It definitely costs more than cheap-o clear packing tape, but I reserve it for specials projects like this and I find it to last longer, hold up very well, and be the best permanent temporary adhesive (does that even make sense?).

Here's a link on Amazon, in case you can't find it in your office bog box store:


I also love printing on sticky notes. Kristen at Ladybug's Teacher Files has not only a very helpful tutorial HERE, but the PowerPoint template I used to make these lovelies.... she's awesome.

I used Super Sticky Post-Its for this project only because I loved the color (tee hee!) and my font is "My Own Topher" from Kevin & Amanda.

Here's a picture of the labeling in progress:



And, the completed look:


I simply trimmed the sticky note, stuck it to the drawer, and secured it on top with a piece of Book Tape. Now, switching these labels (or even re-positioning a crooked one!) is easy-peasy on both the drawers and my patience! The book tape is durable, transparent, and comes off easily when our centers change-- perfecto!

How do you label your drawers/shelves/bins that need changing throughout the year? Anybody else in love with Post-It Note printing?

Before I go, I wanted to let you know I have added Earth Day Fraction Fun to my TpT and TN Stores.


Some of my thirdsters are still struggling with equivalent fractions, so these activities are here to help. Inside, you will find 16 fraction cards that will be used for all three activities: Memory, Comparing, and a Secret Message sheet. Fun, quick, targeted, and timely :) Have fun with them!


11 comments

  1. I'm in love with your plastic drawers too - in fact I have a little organization jealousy. I love printing on post-its. Thanks for the tip on the tape - I'll have to add that to my shopping list.
    Looking From Third to Fourth

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    1. You will {LOVE} it! I try to use it sparingly, but it's a wonderful product, so it's tempting to use it all.of.the.time :)

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  2. What a good idea! I love your drawers! I need some of those for my classroom. :)

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    1. Be sure you get them on sale! They can get sosososo expensive, but I got them when they were 50% off and I found a coupon for free shipping (woo hoo!).

      Thanks for stopping by!

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  3. I love this idea! It seems wasteful to only print one line of text on a post-it, though. Seeing as you're using the tape anyway (so you don't need the sticky part of the post-it), why not print more labels on a single post-it? Just a suggestion!

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    1. Very true- When I started, I was hoping the Super Sticky post-its would be enough, but then added the tape after I realized I needed something more permanent. Nice tip, though!

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  4. These look gorgeous Stephanie!!! Now I want to buy more pretty plastic storage!! The sticky notes with tape is such a great idea and, like you said, so easy to change. Thanks for the lovely words about my blog my dear friend! :) :)

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  5. Stephanie, those look beautiful. I can't wait to use that idea in my classroom. Thank you so much for sharing!

    Sacha

    www.luria-learning.blogspot.com

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  6. Stephanie,

    I use cards with velcro. When I want to change the bin or the material inside, I just pull off the label and replace it with a new one! Easy!

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