5 Easy Tips to Make Your Fundraiser a Success

Why a tea towel fundraiser works

Expressions has helped schools, kinders, childcare centres and community groups across Australia raise money for more than 25 years. Our Expressions Tea Towels turn student artwork into tea towel keepsakes that families love using every day. They are simple to run, cost nothing upfront, and deliver real value for your community. If you are planning a tea towel fundraiser, these five tips will set you up for success. It is one of the smartest fundraising ideas for students and a favourite across fundraising schools in Australia.

1. Timing

Give yourself plenty of time to plan your fundraising. Let families know early that the project is coming and check the school or community calendar so your fundraiser does not clash with other events. Linking your project to a key date adds momentum. Great options include Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, a school anniversary or Christmas. Milestone moments such as prep transition, Year 6 graduation or end of year celebrations also work well for raising money ideas for schools.

2. Communicate and spread the word

Regular updates keep everyone engaged. Mix online and offline channels so your message reaches the whole community.

Easy ways to get the word out

• Email custom letters to parents or include a short update in weekly e-news.
• Add details to your school or organisation app.
• Share your online ordering link with families and extended networks.
• Place a notice in the school newsletter and on the website.
• Post on your school or local community social media pages.
• Display posters and a sample tea towel in a high traffic area.
• Once the design is approved, include an image in a follow up parent letter and post a print out in common areas.
• Make short announcements at assemblies or team meetings.

Need ready made tools to save time? Download free assets from our Marketing Materials and Info and Forms libraries. They are created by the tea towel company schools trust.

3. Motivate and engage

Be clear about the goal and the impact. Tell everyone how much you want to raise and what the funds will be used for. A practical target creates buy in. For example, “We need to sell 200 tea towels to buy new books for the kinder room.” Make it personal and community focused. It is about your children, your families and your school. This approach works for all fundraising ideas Australia wide.

4. Involve more people

Ownership drives results. Invite volunteers, teachers, staff and committee members to take on specific roles to share the workload. Small tasks like collecting artwork, promoting on social media or handing out samples make a big difference. When more people feel part of the project, they champion it to others. This turns your project into a true fundraiser Australia communities can rally behind.

5. Make ordering and payment easy

Simple ordering boosts sales. You can use your school’s existing online order platform or set up an Expressions online shop for fast, cash free payments.

• Use your current system if you already take uniform or canteen orders online.
• Or let us host your store. We can set up a secure Expressions online shop so families and friends can order directly. It is quick and convenient.

Pair easy ordering with clear product info and images that show the quality of our tea towel printing on cotton. Families love practical gifts that last, especially when they are designed by your children & proudly printed in tea towel Australia.

Bonus tip: encourage multi buys

Offer a friendly incentive for families who purchase more than one. For example, 1 for $20 each or order 3 or more for $18 each. Multi buys are an easy way to lift your profit while giving families better value on gifts for grandparents, carers and teachers. These fundraiser ideas for schools can make a noticeable difference to your final total.

Helpful resources to save time

Everything you need to run a smooth and successful project is ready to go.

• Design Options for group layouts and individual artwork.
• Pricing and Profit Info so you can plan your money raising ideas for schools with confidence.
• Info and Forms including parent order letters and social media images.
• Testimonials from fundraising schools across Australia.
• Schools and Childcare hub for step by step guidance.

Need a coordinator’s kit

Ask for our coordinator’s kit to get moving fast. It includes pre-cut cards, pens, posters, instructions, marketing tips and more. You will save time and feel confident at every step, from collecting drawings to approving your design and placing your order.

Ready to run your tea towel fundraiser

Start planning today and turn children’s artwork into meaningful keepsakes that raise real funds. Our friendly team can help you choose layouts, set up your online store and promote your project. Expressions is proud to be the tea towel company creating cherished keepsakes and simple Australia fundraising ideas that work.

Start Your Fundraiser or Contact Us for personalised help. Learn more Why Expressions is trusted by schools and groups nationwide.

FAQs