27 Creative Ways to Decorate a Graduation Cap (2024)

27 Creative Ways to Decorate a Graduation Cap (1)

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Graduation season is here, and it's time to show off your creative side as you sashay into your future. You might be wondering, "What do I write on my graduation cap?" If you're graduating from high school or college, you will undoubtedly be inspired to leave a lasting impression on your fellow classmates with these spirited ideas for graduation caps. And let us tell you, if there's any time to go above and beyond with your cap, it's 2021.

One of our favorite ways to dress up your graduation cap is by letting your parents know how much you appreciate them with a personalized message written across it. Of course, you could also add a funny quote by your favorite author or go a simpler route and just sport a one-of-a-kind statement tassel. And if you really want to give your classmates all the feels, add a photo that captures an awesome memory or write the lyrics to a sappy graduation song on your cap.

And remember, you can either chose to DIY or buy straight online from stores like Amazon and Etsy (if you're school is cool with that). Either way, class of 2021, you may collectively breathe a sigh of relief. You did it! You are graduates and should enjoy this huge moment in your life.

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1

Tassel Toppers That's All, Folks

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As you officially enter adulthood, throw it back to your childhood one last time with this Looney Toons-inspired grad cap.

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2

Paper Flower Graduation Tassel

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Don't feel like going too crazy? Just customize your graduation tassel with cute tiny paper flowers using a printable template.

Get the tutorial from The House That Lars Built »

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3

GlitterMomz Still I Rise

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This inspirational Maya Angelou quote is a great way to honor all your hard work over the past four years. The seller can also customize the cap based on your preferences.

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4

DIY Graduation Cap

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Set foot into your future with this darling and dreamy DIY graduation cap!

Get the tutorial from Polka Dot Chair»

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We absolutely love this saying, but if you want to keep the design and change the quote, this amazing Etsy seller will put whatever saying you like.

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6

CalligraBriDesigns Disney Graduation Cap

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For the grad who's definitely taking a trip to Disneyland to celebrate after the ceremony.

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7

LilyBeanGiftshop The One Where I Graduate

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This Friends graduation cap will have you reminiscing about the greatest moments in your life thus far.

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8

Tassel Toppers Brains and Beauty

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You'll glow in thisgraduation capfit for a queen who just got their degree.

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9

The Adventure Begins

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Add some sparkle to the stage with this glittery cap that's super simple to make.

Get the tutorial from I Love to Create »

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10

Tassel Toppers Proverb 31:25 Graduation Cap

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This inspiring bible verse empowers grads as they look to the future.

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11

RSVPbyWR Nevertheless, She Persisted

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This vinyl decal is an easy way to make a bold statement as you cross that stage.

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12

It's Not a Tiara, But...

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Show them who the real queen is as you cross the stage wearing this glittering cap.

Get the tutorial from HerCampus »

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13

dinahslettering Customized Graduation Cap Topper

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If you're not so confident in your artistic abilities, you can always order a painted capwith a quote of your choice from this talented Etsy seller!

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14

Already Forgot Everything

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Get a little silly with this Finding Nemo-inspired cap that's simple to create.

Get the tutorial from HerCampus »

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15

BeccaMarieBoutique Nursing Graduation Cap Decal

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A super cute choice if you're graduating nursing school this year!

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16

Just Did It

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This fun take on the famous Nike slogan lets everyone know how hard you've worked for this day.

Get the tutorial from For Creative Juice »

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17

Bright Blooms

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We love these small, hand-painted blossoms around the edge of this cap. It's a sweet but subtle way to personalize yours.

Get the tutorial from Sorority Sugar »

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18

The Best Is Yet to Come

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You're done with school and it's time for a bigger adventure. What better place to say it than on a grad cap?

Get the tutorial from For Creative Juice »

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19

Monogrammed Letters

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We think Lilly Pulitzer would approve of this bright and colorful cap with the grad's initials.

Get the tutorial from Belle of the Ball »

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20

SimpleSentimental Thank You Mom and Dad (and Coffee)

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Thank those who made a difference in your life. "Those" may include food and/or beverages that fueled you in pursuit of your degree.

27 Creative Ways to Decorate a Graduation Cap (2024)

FAQs

What are the rules for graduation cap decorations? ›

Graduation caps must not have any advertisem*nts, symbols, words or slogans conveying messages inappropriate at a dignified commencement ceremony. Caps must not threaten the safety of others or use any hate speech of any kind.

How to put pictures on graduation cap? ›

Step 1: With your ruler, measure approximately 2 inches in height for each picture. Step 2: Cut out your picture and use that as a guide for the remaining photos. Step 3: Decide where you want to place your images. Step 4: Glue the photos to your cap.

How to put flowers on a graduation cap? ›

Position the flowers on the cap where you want them. Use the hot glue gun to add glue to the bottom of a flower and press it onto the graduation cap, holding it down for 3-4 seconds to secure. Continue doing this until all the flowers are glued down and the glue is dried.

What can you not put on your graduation cap? ›

Advertisem*nts, symbols, abbreviations, initials, words, slogans, or pictures that are or refer to drug, gang, alcohol, weapons, or sexual content.

Which side to decorate graduation cap? ›

High School Graduation

For a high school commencement ceremony, tassels are worn on the right side of the cap before the ceremony and are then moved from the right side to the left after receiving a diploma or when directed to do so by the graduation speaker.

What is the tradition of decorating graduation caps? ›

Decorating graduation caps is a fun way to stand out and make the graduation ceremony more memorable. It's also an excellent way to celebrate your achievements and show off your creativity. You can use your cap to express your gratitude to your family and friends who supported you throughout your academic journey.

How do you get stickers to stay on a graduation cap? ›

While decorating my cap, I found it easiest to buy things like glue dots, velcro strips, and I used a lot of hot glue. Things like stickers or regular Elmer's glue don't usually stick to the cap material very well. Once everything is placed as you like it, let the cap sit still in a dry place overnight. Finally!

How do you make a graduation cap step by step? ›

How to Make Graduation Cap|Easy Cap
  1. Step 1: Black Chart Paper. Take a black chart paper.
  2. Step 2: Measurement. Now take a measurement of 9cm and make a square.
  3. Step 3: Strip. Take a 5cm broad strip.
  4. Step 4: Cutting. ...
  5. Step 5: Stapler. ...
  6. Step 6: Pasting. ...
  7. Step 7: Tassel. ...
  8. Step 8: Graduation Cap.

What is the best way to glue things to a graduation cap? ›

Glue is a necessary tool to attach most decorations to the graduation cap. Use Elmer's glue or any drying glue, which costs $1.99 to $4.99 at most craft stores or use a hot glue gun. Using glitter paint and pens can make a graduation cap look flashy and extravagant.

How do you glitter a graduation cap? ›

Apply a generous amount of Aleene's Tacky glue to the cap. Spread it out with a paint brush to cover it completely. Sprinkle glitter over the entire cap. Wait until dry.

Can you use a Cricut to decorate a graduation cap? ›

Cutting some simple designs or shapes in cardstock with a Cricut is a super easy way to decorate your graduation cap. After cutting out your design, just stick the cardstock to the cap with craft glue or double-sided adhesive foam for a bit of depth.

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