Being a studyblr is of course far more about the mindset and our shared passion for learning than the stationery, but in this digital world that revolves around photos, it doesn’t always feel that way. However, me that just saying “it’s who you are, not what you have!!” seems quite preachy and condescending, and I know from my own experience how not feeling the same can still hurt your confidence and make you feel like you don’t fit in- even if in reality, that’s completely untrue.
While I can’t solve all the underlying issues with the way this community often (unintentionally!!) functions, what I can do is share advice from my own experience- so here’s a few things I do as a studyblr on a budget to make my money go further.
Try using a makeup bag as a pencil case. So long as you’re not someone who likes lots of compartments, they’re often cheaper than bags specifically marketed as pencil cases (especially on sale). Plus, they’re waterproof and come in so many cute patterns!
Hold off on buying a planner or calendar until a couple of weeks into the year. If you can make do with a notebook for a while, you’ll save a tonne! Demand drops off massively after school starts so you can find some huge discounts on really nice quality planners.
Use AliExpress to buy cute stationery, especially sticky notes. As long as you’re willing to wait a bit longer, it’s usually pretty reliable and always super cheap. Plus, you can avoid dropshipping scams and save money to support your favourite creators & artists!
Don’t be put off by places like Walmart! Even though they’re not the first places that spring to mind when you think of stationery, supermarkets often stock some good, cheap, and reliable supplies. And they can still be super pretty- look at this adorable notebook!
Keep an eye on sales. If you’re after a specific brand, waiting for a sale or finding a coupon code can be a lifesaver. If it’s a specific product, try watching supermarket flyers until somewhere like the middle of Lidl or Aldi starts stocking it for cheap!
Become friends with DIY. One thing so many studyblrs are talented at is making things look pretty- make the most of that!! Decorate your notebooks! Embroider your bags! Use the skills you have to make the most of what you’ve got, and it’ll often look even better than something fancy and ridiculously expensive.
Try some thrift stores. While this isn’t directly related to stationery, if you’re after homewares for your photos or even a nice background, thrift stores can be a solution. Don’t have a glam white desk? Lay out a big white shirt from the thrift store! Plus, sustainability is always a plus.
Buy books secondhand or get them from the library. This isn’t just true for things like textbooks, but for things you want to read as well. Things like pretty bookshelves are definitely idealized but also very expensive. Secondhand books from places like Alibris, or my fave, AbeBooks, are not only cheaper but come with that vintage vibe that’s really in at the moment!
Save things like jam jars to use as stationery organizers. Who needs acrylic storage when we have glass? If you’re after the aesthetics, reused containers can look great for your desk (and photograph really well!) while things you use less often can be hidden away in shoeboxes elsewhere.
Make use of freebies!! Studyblr is great for providing free resources, from gorgeous free printables to free extensions to make your computer look prettier. This sort of thing can be a fab way to customize your setup without spending a tonne, plus you can change the vibe whenever!
Enter all the giveways you can. So long as you’re old enough to give away your mailing address (or have permission from your parents!) and check that’s it’s a legit giveaway, you have literally nothing to lose. Especially on Instagram, brands frequently offer giveaways of their products, and it can be an amazing way to cop some name brand bits and bobs completely for free.
Realize that a lot of the “studyblr aesthetic” is nothing more than framing. I once used a Starbucks doubleshot can in photos across three whole weeks just to make my photos look pretty- no lie. This is quite deceptive but I think everyone, myself included wants to put their best self forward. You, too, are in control of what people see, and there’s so many free resources available online! Take a peek at @studyquill’s guide to photography or some tips from @studypetals and make the most of free apps to edit your photos. Half the time, it’s not about the products, but rather what people perceive.
Please do remember, though, that your hard work, effort, and dedication are infinitely more valuable than the things you own. You don’t need a Mac or a Kanken or Tombows to be an incredible studyblr to motivate yourself and inspire others, even if it often seems that way.
If that sort of thing ever affects your confidence, you’re more than welcome to drop me a message for reassurance, or to suggest more tips, or even just to chat!! I’ll also reblog anything you tag me in (#intellectys)- regardless of how “””pretty””” it is.
This is just my (pretty small) effort to support everyone and make them feel welcome, since this community is filled with amazing people, all of whom deserve admiration and appreciation for the fantastic things they do <3
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