How to Get Free Art Supplies for Your Classroom

Contact your school principal or administrator before getting free art supplies. Some school districts have strict policies concerning donations. Others have certain procedures to follow when asking for supplies. As long as you check first, administration should not mind free supplies for your classroom or the school. After approving your free art supplies with your principal, be creative in garnering them.

1. Search the internet for free supplies. Its sometimes as simple as offering to try a new product. other companies have extra items that they need to get rid of before the end of the year. Remember that shipping costs are often extra.
2. Ask local businesses to leave donation boxes. Art stores,super stores and dollar stores sometimes will sponsor a school and leave donations boxes in the front of the store. Accept any donations given, but give the store manager a list of supplies you especially need. Often they will post these lists by the donation boxes.
3. Contact local art stores or craft stores. Ask if they have extra merchandise or out of date supplies that they are willing to donate to your school. Some supplies have a buy by date so stores look to get these items off the shelf and into consumers hands.
4. Contact your school district to see if your area has a teacher supply depot. Some larger cities have teacher supply depots where merchandise is free or cheap. These supply stores are busy, so get there early in the school year to get the art supplies you need.
5. Write letters to name brand art suppliers. These companies are more apt to offer donations. After all, the premise is that if they give you free supplies, your school might come back later to purchase more supplies. It is a win- win situation for both your classroom, school and the merchant.
   

Before searching for free art supplies, ask your principal if you can write a letter on school stationary. This will often help in getting the items. After the donation, a polite thank you note or mention in a local paper ensures the company will donate again next year. A thank you plaque or trophy also goes a long way in showing your school's appreciation.

Parents often buy art supplies. Getting donations of these essential classroom items not only saves the school money, but parents as well. While the students are enjoying using the supplies, parents will be thanking you for saving them money. The administration in your school district will thank you too!