From Classroom to Keepsake: How Kids’ Art Is Turning Tote Bags into Fundraising Gold

By Expressions Fundraising Tea Towels on 27 August 2025

What do you get when you mix a child’s drawing, a bit of creativity, and a cotton tote bag? One of the most heartwarming, successful, and sustainable school fundraising ideas going around.

At Expressions, we’ve spent over 25 years turning pint-sized masterpieces into printed tote bags, aprons, and tea towels that don’t just raise funds—they raise smiles, too.

Why Kids' Art Fundraisers Work (and Work So Well)

Let’s face it: nothing melts hearts like kids’ artwork. Whether it’s a crayon self-portrait or a class full of quirky handprints, there’s real magic in those little lines.

  • Keepsake appeal: Parents, grandparents and carers love owning a piece of their child’s creativity.
  • Easy to run: With our templates and Coordinator's Guide, schools can set up a fundraiser with ease.
  • Eco-friendly & practical: Customised tote bags and tea towels aren’t just cute, they’re usable, sustainable, and long-lasting.
  • Great for groups or individuals: Whole-class collages or personalised prints—there’s an option for every setup.

From Sketch to Print: How It Works

  1. Get drawing: Kids create their artworks using pen, paint or collage.
  2. Send to us: Upload or post the designs with your layout selection.
  3. We print: Choose from our range of printed tote bags, tea towels and aprons.
  4. Sell with pride: Launch your campaign, set up your online store, and start raising funds!

Our tea towel fundraiser is a crowd favourite, but personalised tote bags are fast becoming the go-to option for schools, ELCs and clubs wanting a fresh, modern fundraising product.

Why Choose Expressions?

  • Experience you can count on: Thousands of successful projects across Australia.
  • Ethically made: Our products are printed locally using quality, sustainable cotton.
  • Designed with care: Every design is reviewed to ensure it’s print-perfect.
  • Extras included: From marketing materials to online store setup support.

Real Impact, Real Results

Take it from schools like St Mary’s Manly or Caulfield Grammar—customised tote bags and tea towels turn into powerful fundraising products and cherished keepsakes. Some families even frame their tea towel keepsakes!

These aren’t just bags. They’re memories, milestones, and moments frozen in time.

Ready to Turn Art into Action?

It’s never been easier to launch a tea towel or tote bag fundraiser. Whether you’re planning for Mother's Day, end-of-year gifts, or a school anniversary, Expressions is here to help you every step of the way.

Get Started Now or Explore Our Fundraising Options.

FAQs About Kids' Art Tote Bag & Tea Towel Fundraising

How does the kids' art fundraiser work with Expressions?

Each child creates their own artwork, which we then print onto high-quality tote bags or tea towels. Your school collects orders, and we handle the printing and delivery. It’s a simple and joyful way to raise funds!

What products can we choose from?

You can choose between customised tea towels, tote bags, or aprons—or mix and match. All options can feature individual or group artwork, class names, school logos and more.

Are the items suitable as gifts?

Absolutely! These make perfect keepsakes for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, end-of-year gifts or graduation. Families treasure them for years to come.

How long does the whole process take?

Most projects take 4–6 weeks from artwork submission to delivery. We recommend sending in artwork early, especially around peak seasons like Term 4.

Can we promote the fundraiser online?

Yes! We provide social media images, marketing templates and even help you set up an online store to make it easy for families to order and share.

Make your next fundraiser unforgettable. Let the kids draw. We’ll do the rest.