With the last of finals and presentations on the horizon, it’s finally time for the fun part: summer, a diploma, and celebrations. And when you’ve got an arsenal full of DIY graduation party ideas, you can be sure that your party is personalized to feature your educational journey and achievements. Remember, graduation is a milestone that you should be proud of; savor it!
While store-bought decorations and treats are easy to buy, they don’t fully represent your experience as a student. By going the DIY route, you can be sure that your big day represents who you are as a person. If you’re really pressed for time, you can always use a mix of store-bought and handmade décor. Even the smallest touch of DIY can make a huge difference.
Like other party crafts, you don’t have to go crazy making elaborate projects. The simplest ideas can make the biggest impact. Plus, you will save a pretty penny by making your own décor from things like old clothes and inexpensive paper from the craft store.
The same goes for things like cap-friendly hairstyles and graduation gifts. Save your cash and go the simpler route; your bank account will thank you.
Congratulations, 2016 graduates!
1. Graduation cap cards
Looking to send invites the old-school way? Make your cards stand out with an adorable graduation cap embellishment. Take a tip from Etsy shop Himaniworks and add a mini tassel to a black paper square.
2. Photo confetti
It's not a real celebration without confetti, am I right? Get festive with customized confetti featuring none other than your very own face (or school's logo). You can make your own by using a circle punch and print-outs. Not into this DIY? Services like Harolds Photo have your back.
3. Advice cards
Grab some inspiration from traditional wedding activities and let your guests leave a few words of wisdom. A simple Google search will lead you to pre-made printables, similar to this version by Mint and Merit on Zazzle. Get ready for a healthy mix of hilarious tips, serious advice, and everything in between.
4. School spirit garland
Re-purpose old t-shirts and fabric scraps into a triangle garland. If you need some inspiration, check out this charming version by Etsy shop BannersAway. This is an awesome way to show some love for your high school or college. As for the numbers? You can find large vinyl or felt versions at your local craft store.
5. DIY Graduation Party Servers
There's nothing better than party decor that comes with another purpose. For a fun way to serve candy, check out this easy project by Vanessa of Tried & True at Darice Crafts. Make it yours by choosing glitter that matches your school colors or spelling out a phrase of your choice.
6. Card basket
Keep things tidy with a basket labeled "cards," just like this version by Etsy shop GIFTEDdecor. This will make cleanup a breeze, ensuring that you don't lose that card from Aunt Sue.
7. Confetti balloons
When you're a student on a budget, decorating can be tricky. That's why I'm adoring this sparkly balloon idea by Etsy shop DecorbySK. Simply slip in some confetti and glitter into a balloon before blowing them up. Cue the festive feels!
8. Globe guestbook
Ditch the traditional paper guestbook for a vintage globe. This offbeat alternative is the epitome of unique. Plus, it can double as decor! Check out your local thrift store or flea market for an inexpensive globe. You can even spray paint it with chalkboard paint, just like this one from Etsy shop TheFulfilledShop.
9. Graduation cap cake pops
Sweeten your party up by constructing these mini graduation caps using different types of candies. Etsy shop DipsCakePops uses a combination of square chocolates, bite-sized candies, and sour straws. How clever is this idea?
10. Sprinkled school spirit treats
Rep your school loud and proud by decorating treats featuring your school colors. Use sprinkles and colored sugar to dress up snacks such as pretzels, marshmallows, cookies, and more. Remember, you can use icing as an edible "glue." For a custom mix of sprinkles, visit Etsy shop NaturalSprinklesCo.
Images: Pexels; Himaniworks; Harolds Photo; Mint and Merit; BannersAway; Darice Crafts; GIFTEDdecor; DecorbySK; TheFulfilledShop; DipsCakePops; NaturalSprinklesCo
