How to Organize a Pencil Case for Back to School

By Home - Fox & Fallow | Published: 2026-10-19

Category: How-to Guides

Get your school supplies organized with these simple pencil case tips. Learn what to keep, how to arrange it, and how to maintain order all year long.

Quick Answer

Start by emptying your pencil case, then sort your supplies into keep, toss, and relocate piles. Arrange the keepers by frequency of use, and give everything a designated spot so you can find it at a glance.

Why a Wide Pencil Case Makes Organizing Easier

A wide, extra-roomy pencil case gives you more options when you sort your supplies. Instead of cramming everything into a narrow pouch, you can lay items side by side, which makes it easier to see what you have and grab it quickly.

That extra width also means you can fit larger tools like scissors, a ruler, or a calculator without forcing the zipper. If you're shopping for a new case, look for one that is described as extra wide—it will save you from the frustration of a bulging pouch that won't close.

The Trade-Off: Capacity vs. Portability

A larger pencil case can hold more, but it also takes up more space in your backpack. If you carry a small bag or have a tight locker, a bulky case might not be practical. Consider how much you actually need to carry each day and choose a size that balances capacity with portability.

If you tend to overpack, set a rule: only keep items you use at least once a week. This keeps your case light and your bag organized.

Step-by-Step: Organize Your Pencil Case

Empty and Clean: Take everything out of your pencil case. Shake out crumbs, erase residue, and wipe the inside with a dry cloth. This gives you a clean slate and helps you see what you actually have. Check for broken or dried-out pens and toss them now.
Sort into Keep, Toss, and Relocate: Make three piles: keep (items you use weekly), toss (broken or empty), and relocate (items that belong elsewhere, like a calculator for math class). Be honest about what you really need. If you haven't used it in a month, it probably doesn't belong in your daily case.
Group by Function: Arrange your keepers into groups: writing tools (pens, pencils), marking tools (highlighters, markers), and tools (eraser, sharpener, scissors). This makes it easy to find what you need quickly. Use small pouches or dividers if you have many items in one group.
Place Most-Used Items on Top: Put the items you reach for most—like a pen and pencil—on top or in an easily accessible spot. Less frequently used items can go at the bottom or sides. If you're always digging for your favorite pen, move it to the top.
Do a Weekly Reset: Once a week, take a minute to empty your case, remove any trash or stray items, and return everything to its designated spot. This prevents clutter from building up. Set a reminder on your phone for Sunday evening to do a quick reset.

Pencil Cases That Make Organizing Easier

Pink Grid Bows Large Pencil Case - PRE-ORDER (OCTOBER): Fox & Fallow's pencil cases are extra wide and designed to fit all your essentials. The extra width lets you arrange pens, pencils, and tools side by side, so you can see everything at a glance without digging.
Pink Grid Bows Large Pencil Case - PRE-ORDER (OCTOBER)
Sage Check Large Pencil Case: This pencil case is described as super durable and super functional. A sturdy case protects your supplies during daily commutes and survives the wear and tear of a school year.
Sage Check Large Pencil Case