27 Creative Ways to Decorate a Graduation Cap
Go for a cute saying, a funny quote or something a little more simple.
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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.
As you officially enter adulthood, throw it back to your childhood one last time with this Looney Toons-inspired grad cap.
Paper Flower Graduation Tassel
Don't feel like going too crazy? Just customize your graduation tassel with cute tiny paper flowers using a printable template.
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.
DIY Graduation Cap
Set foot into your future with this darling and dreamy DIY graduation cap!
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.
For the grad who's definitely taking a trip to Disneyland to celebrate after the ceremony.
This Friends graduation cap will have you reminiscing about the greatest moments in your life thus far.
You'll glow in this graduation cap fit for a queen who just got their degree.
The Adventure Begins
Add some sparkle to the stage with this glittery cap that's super simple to make.
This inspiring bible verse empowers grads as they look to the future.
This vinyl decal is an easy way to make a bold statement as you cross that stage.
It's Not a Tiara, But...
Show them who the real queen is as you cross the stage wearing this glittering cap.
If you're not so confident in your artistic abilities, you can always order a painted cap with a quote of your choice from this talented Etsy seller!
Already Forgot Everything
Get a little silly with this Finding Nemo-inspired cap that's simple to create.
A super cute choice if you're graduating nursing school this year!
Just Did It
This fun take on the famous Nike slogan lets everyone know how hard you've worked for this day.
Bright Blooms
We love these small, hand-painted blossoms around the edge of this cap. It's a sweet but subtle way to personalize yours.
The Best Is Yet to Come
You're done with school and it's time for a bigger adventure. What better place to say it than on a grad cap?
Monogrammed Letters
We think Lilly Pulitzer would approve of this bright and colorful cap with the grad's initials.
Thank those who made a difference in your life. "Those" may include food and/or beverages that fueled you in pursuit of your degree.
Jamie Ballard (she/her) is a freelance writer and editor who covers news, lifestyle, and entertainment topics, including sex and relationships, TV, movies, books, health, pets, food and drinks, pop culture, shopping, and personal finance. She regularly contributes to Cosmopolitan, Woman’s Day, Good Housekeeping, and YouGov, among other publications. When she’s not working, you can find her running, traveling, or scrolling TikTok. Follow her on Twitter.
Yaa Bofah is an editorial fellow at Good Housekeeping. She is a freelance illustrator and created original cover art for The Fashion Bomb Daily’s first e-book series. She enjoys supporting philanthropic endeavors and being an advocate for the Muscular Dystrophy Association.
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