You get what you pay for—no one knows that better than designers. It’s a slice of wisdom that applies as much to business development as to furniture: Trying to better your firm on the cheap is rarely a good idea. However, there are plenty of smart investments that won’t break the bank. We asked 12 firm founders for the best buys they’ve made for $500 or less.

“I purchased these beautiful Poketo oversize wall calendars for my office and had them covered with a surface so I can use dry erase markers all over them. We are always on deadline—this helps and looks chic.” —Mimi Shin, Mimi Shin Design & Interiors

“Everyone on my team has a fully prepared tool kit in their car. It includes anything you would need to hang or steam something, felts to protect things from scratching, and items like zip ties to hide cords. It’s a small investment [that allows us] to be ready for anything during installations!” —Mary Patton, Mary Patton Design