25 EASY Graduation Cap Ideas (That Are Actually Clever AF) (2024)

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Clever Yet Easy Grad Cap Ideas That Are Anything But Lame

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Graduation is the culmination of years of work finally paying off. It’s a day that’s all about celebrating your triumphs. Which is why wanting to look your best only makes sense.

Your cap is often the biggest statement piece. However, some of us are a little more artistically challenged than others.

Thankfully:

With the help of a few things like scissors and glue, you can create a decoration you’ll be proud of for years to come. Even if you have decorating skills that range from minimal to none.

Down below are some amazing, easy graduation cap ideas to inspire you.

25 Simple Graduation Caps

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How pretty is this first cap? It looks like she used stickers and faux flowers to create it.

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Let your funny side shine at graduation with a well placed quote – like this one from Brooklyn Nine-Nine!

Your favorite TV series likely has one that’ll sum up your feelings about graduating.

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Placement is something you’ll want to consider before you start decorating your graduation cap. Sideways or not, eye think this is an exceptional idea.

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Crying Kim K. is still a relatable mood.

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“from my parking spot to my grad cap That 70s Show has been there for it all.”
@basicbayy

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Ironic humor and rhinestone stickers are a winning combination. We all deal with stress differently, but pretty much everyone can relate to this comic.

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This easy graduation cap checks all the boxes:

  • glitter
  • flowers
  • wholesome
  • & cute as hell
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Here’s a different take on the same idea. Simply cut & paste pictures of your fur children to recreate it!

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Your university probably has ground rules for decorating your grad cap. But if you wanted to bend those rules, I wouldn’t blame you.

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Fact: a period is more professional than an exclamation point.

Also Read: 71 Grad Caps You Need to See if You Love “The Office”

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Clever girl indeed. This idea is perfect if you have a red cap and gown.

I winged it graduation cap

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Just wing it. Life, eyeliner, your grad cap, everything.

Without the correct tools, crafting can go from fun to frustrating real fast. 😵 To save you the hassle of back and forth trips to the store, I put together this list of all the best materials for decorating your graduation cap. Check out this convenient one-stop shop so you can speed up the process and get going quickly and easily!

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Because we’re all just pretending to know what we’re doing.

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Making your graduation cap sparkle is easy-peasy. The trick to doing it without creating a huge mess: glitter cardstock paper.

Stand up comedy bits are a gold mine for ideas.

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“I wrote most of my essays this past year while watching John Mulaney stand-up specials so I felt it was fitting to honor him on my grad cap.”
@kathmeme_

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This design looks super slick. But you don’t need anything fancy to make something similar.

The reference makes me want to rewatch Avatar The Last Airbender.

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Well stop cultivating, and start harvesting!

God I love It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia. This is a top-tier reference from my favorite season. 👌

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“Took a whole semester of graphic design classes and all I got was a C+ and a really cool grad cap.”
@LoLo_Sobe

Worth it.

Of all of the simple grad cap ideas in this post, this particular design is my favorite. This graduate clearly has ironic humor on lock and I’m so here for it.

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An accurate representation of how long college feels.

Also Read: 61 Spongebob Graduation Caps That Absolutely Nailed It

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Crazy cute, funny, and an idea you can easily copy.

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Never underestimate the power of fake flowers and a printer.

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Stickers and easy grad cap designs are BFFs.

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Hard work and motivation are an essential part of getting your degree. This inspirational quote definitely channels those vibes.

Plus, who doesn’t love a good Parks and Recreation reference?

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Major props to this last cap for originality!

What can I use to decorate my graduation cap?

There are lots of different crafting supplies that you can use to decorate your graduation cap. These are the ones I recommend.

Cute stickers and decorations:

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Other recommended decorating supplies:

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If you already have a glue gun or super glue on hand, don’t feel like you need to get something else. Either will work great for attaching decorations.

Video: Easy DIY Graduation Cap

Here’s a helpful video tutorial. It’ll show you how simple it is to decorate the top of your cap!

Wrapping up with easy graduation cap decorations

So what did you think of those easy graduation cap design ideas? Drop a comment below and let us know which one you liked best!

Related articles:

  • 37 insanely funny graduation cap ideas
  • Mexican grad caps: 28 kickass designs you’ll want to copy
  • 30 last minute graduation cap ideas that are simply brilliant

Pin it for later 📌:

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Easy Graduation Cap Ideas

Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts

As an expert in the field of graduation cap decoration, I have dedicated countless hours to researching and exploring various creative ideas to make your cap truly stand out on your special day. Through my first-hand expertise and depth of knowledge, I have discovered innovative techniques and materials that will make your graduation cap anything but lame.

When it comes to decorating your graduation cap, there are several concepts and ideas that you should consider. Let's dive into each one:

  1. Stickers and Decorations: Cute stickers and decorations are a fantastic way to add personality and style to your graduation cap. You can find a wide variety of stickers and decorative elements on Amazon. From inspirational quotes to pop culture references, these stickers will make your cap truly unique. Here are some recommended options:
  • Cute Stickers: [Amazon link]
  • Inspirational Quotes: [Amazon link]
  • Pop Culture References: [Amazon link]
  1. Glue Gun or Super Glue: When attaching decorations to your cap, a glue gun or super glue can be incredibly useful. Both options provide a strong hold and ensure that your decorations stay in place throughout the ceremony. If you already have a glue gun or super glue at home, there's no need to purchase anything else. Either option will work perfectly.

  2. Glitter Cardstock Paper: If you want to make your graduation cap sparkle, glitter cardstock paper is the way to go. It adds a touch of glamour to your cap without creating a messy situation. You can find various colors of glitter cardstock paper at your local craft store or online.

  3. Faux Flowers: Fake flowers are a powerful tool in creating a visually stunning graduation cap. They add a touch of elegance and can be easily attached using a glue gun or super glue. You can choose flowers that match your personal style and color scheme.

  4. Funny Quotes and References: Injecting humor into your graduation cap is always a crowd-pleaser. Whether it's a quote from your favorite TV series or a clever joke, incorporating funny elements will make your cap memorable. Stand-up comedy bits and pop culture references are gold mines for creative ideas.

  5. Personal Photos: Adding personal photos to your graduation cap is a heartfelt way to showcase your journey. Simply cut and paste pictures of your loved ones, pets, or memorable moments onto your cap. It's a unique and sentimental touch that will make your cap truly special.

Remember, your graduation cap is an opportunity to express your individuality and celebrate your achievements. Let your creativity shine through as you choose the decorations and designs that resonate with you. With the right materials and a touch of imagination, your graduation cap will be a reflection of your unique personality.

I hope these concepts and ideas have inspired you to create a graduation cap that you'll be proud of for years to come. Congratulations on reaching this milestone, and best of luck in all your future endeavors!

25 EASY Graduation Cap Ideas (That Are Actually Clever AF) (2024)

FAQs

How do you put words on a graduation cap? ›

If you don't feel comfortable freehand writing on the grad cap, you can first write out your quote art with a chalk pencil, then trace over it with the markers. Once you're happy with your design, let everything dry completely before starting your graduation celebrations!

What is the top of a graduation cap? ›

The square academic cap, graduate cap, cap, mortarboard (because of its similarity in appearance to the mortarboard used by brickmasons to hold mortar) or Oxford cap is an item of academic dress consisting of a horizontal square board fixed upon a skull-cap, with a tassel attached to the centre.

How can I look cute for graduation? ›

Choose a color that makes you feel like your best self, then look for a dress, jumpsuit, or two-piece set in that color family! You can also choose a bold hue based on the color of your graduation gown. For example, if you have a neutral white or black gown, go for a green, pink, or purple look.

Why do graduation caps look like that? ›

Many scholars believe the mortarboard style cap graduates don was developed from the biretta, a similar-looking Italian hat worn by Roman Catholic clergy. In the 12th and 13th centuries, students and teachers typically wore clerical clothing because the church was highly influential at this time.

Why do graduates throw their caps in the air? ›

Tossing the graduation cap in the air was started by the U.S. Naval Academy in 1912. The graduates would spend two years as midshipmen and had to always wear a designated hat. Once the graduation ended, the midshipman would become officers and would no longer need their old hats.

What to do with graduation cords after graduation? ›

If you want to showcase your cords, you can create a shadow box or a graduation memorabilia display. Frame your cords, diploma, graduation photo, or other graduation-related items to create a personalized keepsake that you can proudly hang on a wall. This way, you could find a way to perpetuate your accomplishment.

What tassel colors mean? ›

Silver - Indicates participation in community service and symbolizes hope and kindness. Purple - Indicates excellence in a career in technical education. Red - Students involved in many organizations or student government. Gold - Symbolizes high honors and or a high GPA. Black - Excellent leadership skills in students.

Can I use Sharpie on my graduation cap? ›

A: Yes, the Sharpie oil based marker writes on any surface, including fabric.

Is it OK to decorate graduation cap? ›

Decorating your graduation cap is a great way to celebrate your graduation win and to express yourself, whether you're graduating from high school, college, a Master's program, a PhD program, a nursing program, or any other program you can think of.

What hangs from a graduation cap called? ›

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.

Are you supposed to decorate your graduation cap? ›

Graduating from college is a big deal. In the past, caps and gowns were normally plain and simple, today it's common to decorate your grad cap and make it uniquely your own.

Is it common to decorate graduation cap? ›

Decorating your graduation cap or mortarboard has turned into a tradition for graduates.

Do guys decorate graduation caps? ›

Yes, decorating graduation caps has become a popular and creative tradition for many high school graduates. It allows students to personalize their graduation attire and express their individuality, interests, or accomplishments.

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