A Back-to-School Tradition Worth Adopting: The German Schultüte
the Schultüte has become a fun and creative way for families everywhere to celebrate school
🎒 A Back-to-School Tradition Worth Adopting: The German Schultüte
In Germany, there’s a sweet tradition that’s been making children smile for over two centuries—the Schultüte. These large, cone-shaped gift holders, often decorated with bright colors and patterns, are given to children on their very first day of school. The tradition began in the early 1800s when parents would fill the cones with treats, small toys, and school supplies as a way to make the start of school feel special and exciting. In some regions, teachers would hang the cones on a “Schultütenbaum” (school cone tree), and the children had to pick theirs—adding a little extra magic to the day.
While originally for first graders, the Schultüte has become a fun and creative way for families everywhere to celebrate school milestones and make the transition into a new school year a little brighter.
How I Made Mine
One year, I made one of these for Cooper before his first day of school, and the excitement on his face made every minute worth it. The next year, I decided to go a step further. I grabbed his school supply list, headed to the store, and hunted for budget-friendly items—plus a few extra surprises I knew he’d love.
Here’s how you can make one for your own back-to-schooler:
You’ll Need:
- Poster board
- Wrapping paper
- String and pencil
- Tissue paper
- Glue
- Ribbon
- Fun school supplies and small treats
Instructions:
- Using your string and pencil, draw a large curve from corner to corner on the poster board.
- Cut along the curve, then gently roll the template over the edge of a table to help form the cone shape.
- Glue the edges together to make your cone.
- Cover the cone with your choice of wrapping paper for a cheerful design.
- Cut strips of tissue paper, glue them together into a long strip, and attach this around the inside top edge of your cone.
- Fill the cone with school supplies, treats, and little surprises.
- Tie the top with a pretty ribbon and get ready for big smiles!
Whether you make one for a first grader, a middle schooler, or even as a fun surprise for a teacher or friend, the Schultüte is a gift that’s as delightful to give as it is to receive.
I hope you’ll give this tradition a try—enjoy the process, the creativity, and that wonderful moment when your little one peeks inside.
Happy crafting and happy back-to-school season!
💛 Aimee
Here’s how.
