DIY decorations for graduation ceremonies: a collection of simple yet striking decoration ideas
With the graduation ceremony approaching, many of you might be wondering how to handle the decorations.
Since it’s a special occasion, you probably want to create heartfelt, handmade decor.
But when it comes time to get started, it’s easy to feel unsure about where to begin.
In this article, we’ll introduce ideas for DIY decorations for the graduation ceremony.
We’ve gathered a variety of ideas, including garlands, balloon art, and displays that let you look back on memories, so please use them as inspiration!
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Handmade decorations for the graduation ceremony. A collection of simple yet eye-catching decoration ideas (31–40)
An illustration of a ball
Was the sport you played one that uses a ball? If so, I recommend incorporating an illustration of a ball.
It’s probably an item that symbolizes the sport, so seeing it might evoke a sense of nostalgia or bring back memories.
You could also draw it together with other symbolic items—for example, a glove for baseball or a hoop for basketball.
By the way, you can draw circles smoothly by using a compass.
Mizuhiki art
If you’ve ever used a ceremonial gift envelope, you’ve probably seen mizuhiki.
These decorative cords come in many shapes.
Here are art pieces made with mizuhiki.
You can decorate a wreath base with mizuhiki, or use it on a large canvas to spell out words like “Graduation Ceremony.” Adding classic celebratory items such as flowers or fans will make it even more fitting for the occasion.
Give it a try!
Felt mascot
Let’s decorate the graduation ceremony venue with warm, handmade felt mascots! Create pieces inspired by the sport you’ve practiced, members’ faces, or their favorite things—feel free to use a variety of motifs.
If you attach a pin back or a string to the reverse side, you can give them as gifts after the ceremony.
By bonding the felt pieces together with fabric glue instead of sewing, even those who aren’t confident in sewing can make them easily—so give it a try!
Handwritten POP
If you want to pursue originality, making handwritten POP displays is also recommended.
Handwritten POPs are signs originally written by store staff to boost customers’ desire to buy.
You’ve probably seen POP signs highlighting trending products or sections a store wants to draw attention to.
Try creating yours with that image in mind—include messages like “Congratulations on your graduation,” or add illustrations.
Thickening the outlines of the letters will enhance the handwritten POP feel.
chain of rings
Let me introduce paper chains, which actually have a variety of uses.
A paper chain is a decoration made by turning strips of paper into rings and linking them together.
You can hang them on the wall, wear them like a necklace, or use them as a ribbon substitute to decorate a gift box.
You can use any kind of paper you like, so try finding something that suits your taste.
Origami paper, construction paper, or even flyers and wrapping paper are all options.
You can also make good use of tanzaku-style strips sold at 100-yen shops.
Handmade decorations for the graduation ceremony. A collection of simple yet impressive decoration ideas (41–50)
Member illustrations
How about drawing illustrations of the graduating members, current members, and coaches to lively decorate the graduation ceremony venue? Just having lots of faces creates a fun atmosphere.
Seeing illustrations lovingly drawn by the current members is sure to move the graduating members.
Portraits are great on their own, and it’s also recommended to draw full-body illustrations showing them playing the sport they’ve been dedicated to.
If you want to give the graduation ceremony a gentle, warm feel, be sure to incorporate members’ illustrations into the decorations.
Cherry blossom display
Let’s create a big cherry blossom tree at the graduation ceremony venue and celebrate the children who are graduating! Use construction paper and origami to make cherry blossom petals, and brown construction paper to make the tree trunk.
Then simply arrange and stick them together in the most eye-catching spot at the venue to complete the cherry blossom tree! You could have current members make the petals, or ask the graduating children’s parents to help—turn it into a collaborative project where everyone works together to celebrate the graduates.
Enjoy the cherry blossoms both indoors and outdoors, and help the graduating children enjoy the ceremony with a fresh, uplifting feeling!