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These Creative Graduation Cap Ideas Will Simply Blow You Away

Who knew spring semester seniors could be so innovative?

Last Updated on April 30, 2019 by Anna - University of Florida
This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you purchase through our links. Please read our full disclosure here.
Graduation cap ideas - cap that reads Live Your Dreams
Oregon State University Commencement | Flickr

From the moment they receive that fateful acceptance letter to college, to the day they’re gearing up for senior pictures, every freshman dreams of their graduation day.

One way to commemorate a journey of such massive academic progress, extracurricular activity, and overall exhaustion (aside from coming up with the perfect graduation outfit) is to put some time into a cool graduation cap decoration, transforming it from a basic ceremonial piece to a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.

Whether custom-made for purchase or built from scratch by the wearer herself, the following graduation cap ideas are striking and ingenious. See if you can glean some major #grad inspiration from our favorite Instagram examples below!

1. The cap that’s got it all

Just a reminder that I am CLOSED for any new grad cap orders for Spring ‘18. ❤️✨ #gradcap #gradcaps #graduation #graduationcap #graduationcaps

A post shared by Kim’s Custom Caps (@kimscustomcaps) on Apr 10, 2018 at 12:36pm PDT

When the first cap is this good, you know it’s only going to get better from here on down.

2. This wanderlust sign 

This one is for @eppieehlers ?? eppie and I had GCOM together freshman year and she was always the sweetest and friendliest person in the room! So crazy how connections you make your first year can bring you all the way to the end of your time at JMU. so excited for what your future holds!

A post shared by Faith Adeline (@adeline_letters) on Apr 10, 2018 at 5:55am PDT

Featuring a quote by American novelist Jack Kerouac, Adeline’s design truly stands out with its impeccable calligraphy.

3. This rhyming, truth-telling Dr. Seuss cap

? Oh the places you’ll go… ? A #DrSeuss themed #GradCap for @iamashleyye

A post shared by Anne Castro (@annecastro.art) on Apr 9, 2018 at 6:56am PDT

“You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose. You’re on your own. And you know what you know. And YOU are the one who’ll decide where to go…” 

4. This cap that tells it like it is

My pawrents are graduating in 31 days! This is my hoodad’s grad cap ??? #engineer #gradcap #toshitheshiba #shibasofinstagram #justshibathings #shibagram #shibae #shibalove #shibalife

A post shared by Toshiro Suikkari Epps (@toshi_the_shibe) on Apr 10, 2018 at 5:52am PDT

Paws down, I think @toshi_the_shiba’s cap is the best Shiba Inu cap I’ve ever seen. And I’ve seen my share of good boy accessories.

5. This custom-made acrylic design

I originally intended to make this my 100th post. “Insert cheesy quote,” but I forgot and posted my #happymail instead ??‍♀️ • So for my 101st post, I’ll leave you with this fun grad cap that I got to ship to the other side of the country! Yay to my first (and hopefully not my last) sale outside of Florida! • Also, if you or someone you know is in the market for a custom grad cap, I’d love to make someone’s dream come to life! • • • • #gradcap #graduation #disney #disneyland #disneyworld #disneygraduationcap #disneycastle #cinderellascastle #acrylics #customdesign

A post shared by Cheyanne (@strokesofsunshine) on Apr 9, 2018 at 4:28pm PDT

Anyone else start humming the song as soon as they spotted the Pinocchio lyrics?

6. This motivational masterpiece

Graduation is right around the corner. Let your cap shine on your big day ✨?❣️ Congrats Class of 2018. May you have much success in whatever the future holds ⭐️ . . #graduation #graduationpictures #graduationcap #graduationparty #gradcap #gradcapdesign #gradcapseason #gradcapideas #gradcapdecorations #graduationphotoshoot #graduationseason #graduationtime #classof2018 #highschoolgraduate #highschoolgrad #collegegraduation #collegegrad #collegegraduate #etsyshop #etsyseller #etsysellersofinstagram #communityovercompetition #motivationalquotes #motivationmonday #mondaymood #mondayvibes #customgradcap #customgradcapdesign

A post shared by Canvas & More By Aly (@canvasandmorebyaly) on Apr 9, 2018 at 4:20pm PDT

Again, hand lettering takes the stage with you as you prepare for a world of exciting possibilities after college.

7. This cap that screams #BlackGirlMagic

These grad caps thoooo. #classof2018 #2018 #finallyfinished #faneto #mamaimadeit #itsovernow #gradcap #mortarboard #pretty #fashion

A post shared by Trendy Tingsss (@trendytingsss) on Apr 9, 2018 at 4:14pm PDT

Can we admire some of that extraordinary #BlackGirlMagic just by appreciating this graduation cap decoration? 

Yes, yes we can.

8. The next in a long series of travel-oriented grad caps

Ok this guy is competing with the reef for my favorite cap ever! ?? #lelelinescaps #allthecolors #handlettering #classof2018 #gradcap #travel #congradulations #escape #graduationcap #collegegrad #calligraphy #highschoolgrad #wanderer

A post shared by Leanne Belcher (@le_le_lines) on Apr 9, 2018 at 10:12am PDT

When travel is your ultimate passion, you just want the world to know it.

9. This appreciative and bilingual sentiment

A few more custom grad caps from last week ✨If you know you’ll want to order a grad cap topper, fill out an order form (link in bio) this week. The LAST day I am accepting cap orders that are needed by April 28 – May 15 is •TUESDAY APRIL 17th• After April 17th, I will not be accepting any grad cap orders unless it’s for after May 15th. So PLEASE refrain from messaging me asking if I can fit in more caps after the 17th!! ? #camillacreations . . . . #gradcaps ##gradcap #graduationpictures #graduation #graduationcap #customcap #customgtsdcap #paintedgrapcap #floralgradcap #acrylicpaint #college #graduate #paintedcap #paintedgraduationcap #graduationcaptopper #gradcaptopper #shopsmall #etsy #handcrafted

A post shared by Kassandra Camilla Reyes (@camilla_creations) on Apr 9, 2018 at 8:28am PDT

Sometimes, graduation caps are the best way to show your loved ones how grateful you are for their support throughout college.

(In Spanish: “Thank you for planting a seed. Thanks, mom and grandma.”)

10. This roaring 3D dinosaur cap

Graduation season is coming up, so here’s some inspiration for grad cap decorations! Would you do something like this for your graduation day? #fossils #archeology #archaeology #paleontology #palaeontology #dinos #dinosaurs #graduation #graduationcap #gradcap #clevergirl #mcig #minecraft #minecraftpc #minecraftmods

A post shared by Fossils & Archeology: Revival (@f_a_revival) on Apr 9, 2018 at 6:37am PDT

We have an inkling Ross would never take a break from wearing this nerdy grad cap.

11. This handwritten statement cap

it must be graduation season! ?? • • • • • #art #handdrawn #creative #love #drawing #painting #canvas #art #handdrawn #creative #love #beautiful #flowers #brunch #champagne #love #marriage #engaged #graduation #gradcap #california #arizona #nau #craft #summer #coffee #celebrate #ipadpro #ipad #ipadlettering #wedding #weddingdress #isaidyes #cricut #a

A post shared by Ivy & Ivory (@ivy_and_ivory) on Apr 7, 2018 at 5:23pm PDT

When you treat your graduation cap like a canvas, beautiful things happen. This is such an example.

12. This cap that’s, quite frankly, hilarious

#ASUGradCap @tacobell will you sponsor my education?

A post shared by Janisthedread (@janisthedread) on Apr 7, 2018 at 10:31am PDT

Self-confidence + Taco Bell = one superb grad cap.

13. This intricate DIY design

Been designing like crazy and still have more to go ? I won’t be taking any grad cap orders again until April 16th through April 21st! ? . . . #graduation #grad #gradcap #graduationcap #graduationcaps #2018 #flowers #socialwork #msw #godiswithinher #psychology #capdesigns #art #artsy #artist #artistry #arty #creativity #glitter #glitterart #instaart #blackartist #blackbusinesses #smallbusinessowners #youngblackartist #yba #designs #diy

A post shared by ? Tay ? (@creativitay_) on Apr 5, 2018 at 6:33pm PDT

Who said pre-health majors couldn’t be creative?

14. This Belle-inspired work of art

⭐️Attention Grads⭐️ your time is almost here!! Order custom Bows or Grad Caps from us! Any quote or design you want! Add jewels, glitter, flowers, lights, etc. DM or Email is for inquiries and orders!! ?**grad cap not included

A post shared by Living In A Fantasyland (@liveinafantasyland) on Apr 3, 2018 at 9:12am PDT

Perfect for theater majors, English grads, or just regular Disney enthusiasts, this graduation cap inspires wanderlust and VHS nostalgia.

15. The sweetest cap you’ll ever see

Loving this happy cap ? #grad #graduation #gradcap #paintedgradcap #graduationcap #decoratedgradcaps #2018 #classof2018 #college #highschool #seniorpictures #osu #ou #snu #etsy #etsyseller #shoplocal #shopsmall #okc #okcart #acrylic #dreamsdontworkunlessyoudo #dream #dreamon #collegegraduate #collegelife

A post shared by New Hue By Morgan Gaynor (@newhuepaintings) on Apr 2, 2018 at 6:01pm PDT

This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine…

16. This punny Hello Kitty drawing

Graduating this year ? Look no further !!!! Or know someone who will be graduating??? Visit my Etsy Page to discuss me painting your cap into a one of a kind cap that you will treasure forever ! #handpainted #minniemouse #classof2018 #gradcap #graduation #graduationcap #handpaintedgradcap #etsy #hellokitty #anime. Painted with @angelusdirect paints ???ETSY LINK IN BIO???

A post shared by DrawingsByBOBA (@mrboba1987) on Mar 24, 2018 at 6:50pm PDT

Hellllooo, graduation!

17. This absolutely precious cap

@hhaberman has definitely been working hard towards graduation and is managing to stay pretty humble ?

A post shared by Carolyn Stewart (@carolyn.writes) on Apr 11, 2018 at 9:45am PDT

Sometimes, you can say so much by writing so little.

18. This beautiful collection of makeup products

Custom graduation caps! Any theme of your choosing! #graduation #graduationcap #grad #gradcap #gradcapdesign #etsy #etsygraduation #customgradcaps #customgraduationcap

A post shared by Create More Often (@create_more_often) on Mar 15, 2018 at 7:22pm PDT

Or should we say beauty-full?

19. This brush script grad cap topper

Hey seniors, graduation will be here before you know it! It’s never too early to think about grad caps!! AND, any of @dawn_photo_seniors ‘s reps can get you 15% off of custom cap toppers with me! ?? . . . . #handlettering #handlettered #lettered #lettering #letters #brushlettering #brushlettered #calligraphy #moderncalligraphy #calligraphylove #brushcalligraphy #brushscript #modernscript #modernlettering #handwriting #handwritten #calligrapher #oregoncalligrapher #oregoncalligraphy #eugeneoregon #corvallisoregon #weddingcalligrapher #calligrabasics #handletteringdaily #graduationcap #gradcap #customgraduationcap #classof2018 #seniorsunday #graduationcaptopper

A post shared by Maggie Murray (@maggiemurraycreative) on Mar 14, 2018 at 10:00am PDT

When adventure is out there, you want the rest of your life to start as soon as possible.

20. This work of heart

A post shared by Julie Wuellner (@julijules2012) on May 3, 2017 at 11:05am PDT

Sunflowers and daisies, check. Motivational quote, check. One of the cutest graduation caps we’ve stumbled upon? Check.

21. This girly square

A post shared by Savannah (@savannnnahleigh) on May 2, 2017 at 9:49pm PDT

From J.K. Rowling to the graduation floor.

22. This bejeweled flower crown

A post shared by Brooke Watson (@brooke_watson96) on May 6, 2017 at 9:17pm PDT

We love how classy this decked out floral cap is!

23. This Little Mermaid-inspired cap

A post shared by Disney Style (@disneystyle) on May 3, 2017 at 1:36pm PDT

Us too, girl. Us too.

24. This Harry Potter masterpiece

A post shared by Shanna Merceron (@shannamerceron) on Apr 29, 2017 at 7:28pm PDT

No, we’re not crying; there’s just something in our eyes!

25. This Legally Blonde number

A post shared by ? Toria Marie ? (@dearmoonstudios) on May 8, 2017 at 3:55am PDT

We did it!

26. This witty B.S. grad cap

A post shared by Kayley’s Calligraphy (@parchmentandpolkadots) on May 7, 2017 at 10:56pm PDT

Tiptoeing the line between enlightened and just plain punny.

27. This Shakespeare illustration

A post shared by Phoebe Mikalonis (@phoebemik) on May 7, 2017 at 6:43pm PDT

The Bard would approve of this cute graduation cap idea.

28. This Instagram addict

A post shared by Annie Tran (@annie.vtrann) on May 7, 2017 at 1:14pm PDT

So true.

29. This future NYC resident

A post shared by Natalie Dallenbach (@ndallenbach) on May 7, 2017 at 9:15am PDT

Looking at this cap, it’s no surprise that the senior who made this is starting a career as a graphic designer!

30. This Hamilton statement

A post shared by Kimberly Ngo (@kimdngo) on May 3, 2017 at 8:03pm PDT

#Represent.

31. This pearly artwork

A post shared by Abby (@mooreabbyg) on May 7, 2017 at 5:46pm PDT

We’re not sure we’d have the patience to glue 1,500 little blue balls onto one cap, but kudos to this graduate for her amazing crafting skills!

32. This puptacular piece

A post shared by Megan Thompson (@lillllmeg) on May 7, 2017 at 6:21pm PDT

In this case, honesty was the best, and most artistic, policy.

33. This catterific cap

A post shared by Jackson Hooker (@jacksonthemanx) on May 7, 2017 at 4:14am PDT

Or, you can always go the kitty route if you prefer Tiger to Fido.

34. This glittery Kawaii craft

A post shared by Jennifer Bajana (@jennifer_bajana) on May 5, 2017 at 11:52pm PDT

See if you can spot Totoro and No-Face in this eclectic mix!

35. This custom Mulan top

A post shared by ✨Custom Art By Wensy✨ (@fantasmicboutique) on May 7, 2017 at 6:54pm PDT

We’re sure this grad looked beautiful after four years of adversity — oops, we mean college!

36. This Friends cap

A post shared by Shannon (@slamyourheartout) on May 6, 2017 at 7:14am PDT

So no one told you life was going to be this way…

37. This unique take on graduation

A post shared by India Potter (@1ndia1nk) on May 6, 2017 at 1:20pm PDT

The only thing it’s missing is the soundtrack: Pomp and Circumstance.

38. This Leslie Knope meets Mickey masterpiece

A post shared by Cassidy (@cdangles) on May 6, 2017 at 7:14am PDT

We can’t get enough of these cute Disney-inspired caps!

39. This Spongebob Squarepants joke

A post shared by Lael Aaryn (@laeliewhalie) on May 6, 2017 at 2:16pm PDT

According to the maker of this grad cap, you get bonus points if you read it with the narrator’s French accent.

40. The last on our list

Thank Mom and Dad in a special way. A classic and affordable addition to a graduation cap.

A post shared by Sheri Thomas (@plaidpistachio) on Feb 21, 2018 at 2:18pm PST

For our last cap, we’re reminding you to thank your mom, dad, and anyone else who’s helped you become the person you are today.

Now that you’ve been inspired by these truly spectacular grad cap decorations, why not try making your own?

Epilogue: The Grad Cap Challenge

It’s not a true College Fashion grad cap roundup without community input!

If you have a graduation cap you believe deserves an honorable mention, comment below with a picture of it so that we can admire it, too! Whether it’s your own heart’s labour or from the desk of a budding artist friend, we’re sure to think it’s the bee’s knees.

Seniors, are you excited to walk at graduation? Have you already made progress on your cap? Are you open to sharing a pic or two? 

Comment below with an image of your DIY graduation cap. We want to see how creative our very own CF readers can be!

Tags : DIY, Graduation

Leave a Comment
Originally published on May 1, 2019
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