Customizable Backpack Name Tags for Back to School

After a long summer, it was back to school for us yesterday!
It didn’t go entirely smoothly (I’ll spare you the messy details), but we’re all excited for a great school year ahead.

6th grade (!!!!)                        4th grade                               Kindergarten

Some years ago I made simple backpack tags so my kids’ plain backpacks would stand out and so anyone who found them could return them to us. Yesterday my child with special needs was dropped off at the wrong school and his backpack was misplaced (yes, a rough day). Thankfully it was returned by the end of the day. If you like simple, practical projects, this is an easy one you can make at home.

I usually use a laminator (I love mine), but this approach works well if you don’t have one: clear contact paper creates a durable, protective finish with very little fuss.

What you’ll need: scissors, a hole punch, clear contact paper, and a rubber band or small key ring. Print the backpack tag template (business-card size). Add a photo of your child in the designated spot and fill in the contact information you’re comfortable sharing.

Steps:
– Measure the printed tag against the contact paper and cut a piece slightly larger than the tag.
– Peel the contact paper backing, place the tag on the sticky side, and smooth out any bubbles.
– Trim around the edges, leaving a small seal of contact paper to protect the paper edge.
– Punch a hole, attach a rubber band or ring, and fasten it to the backpack.

Tip: For safety, only include the details you want to share publicly. You can limit information to a first name and a phone number, or whatever you prefer.

You can also print a full-page sheet of blank tags and cut as many as you need.

What back-to-school projects have you been working on? I linked this idea up with a weekend round-up and thought others might enjoy trying it too.