Hand-drawn illustrations to brighten graduation: an idea collection you'll want to copy
As graduation season approaches, many of us start working on yearbooks, message boards, and cards.
That’s when warm, hand-drawn illustrations can add a special touch.
Even if you think, “I’m not good at drawing,” don’t worry! With a few simple tips, anyone can create heartfelt illustrations.
In this article, we’ll share a wide range of hand-drawn illustration ideas with a graduation theme—from classic motifs like cherry blossoms, school uniforms, and diplomas to unique designs that are sure to bring a smile.
Why not add a personal, heartfelt illustration to your message for someone special?
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Hand-drawn illustrations to color your graduation. An idea collection you'll want to copy (41–50)
finger painting
You hardly need any tools! Finger painting is an art technique where you apply ink or paint directly to your hands and fingers and paint without using brushes or stencils.
One of its charms is the freedom to express yourself while enjoying the cool feel of the paint and the way colors blend together.
The video compiles techniques that even beginners can try and shows the steps for creating a piece.
Each work turns out beautifully, so why not try it with your classmates as a way to commemorate your graduation?
Hand-drawn illustrations to brighten graduation: an idea collection you’ll want to copy (51–60)
frottage
Let’s try frottage, a technique whose name comes from the French word for “to rub.” In this method, you place a thin sheet of paper over a textured surface and rub with a pencil or crayon to capture the patterns and edges on the surface beneath.
The video also introduces differences when using plant materials like leaves and flowers, as well as variations in texture depending on whether you use pencils or pastels.
Since it’s a technique you can easily try with simple materials like paper and pencils, be sure to give it a go.
lithograph
Lithography, a technique that uses the repellent action of water and oil, is a type of printmaking in which an image drawn on a flat stone or metal plate is transferred onto paper.
Although it is one form of printmaking, it is said to excel at expressing beautiful lines and touches, and is known for enabling richer color expression.
In the video, the process is organized into four steps so you can try lithography yourself! How about printing your carefully crafted design with lithography? It seems like it could lead to a valuable experience.
Message card for graduates
@nukoko_neko Message card for graduates!! 💐🎓✨ [Pen used] Pentel Matt HopGraduation CeremonyGraduationSimple illustration#IllustrationHow to drawLoose illustrationSurpriseTranslationPresentMessage Card#messagecard#present#surprise#gift#drawing
Haruka – YOASOBI
An idea for color ballpoint pens that are as rich and vivid as paint, producing crisp colors even on photos and colored paper.
The way the colors spread is beautiful, and just drawing graduation memories or words of support will instantly make a card look bright and festive.
Both text and illustrations are easy to see, creating a card that gently conveys the giver’s feelings.
You can enjoy simple decorations, and the act of making it becomes an exciting, joyful experience in itself.
Express your feelings for the graduates with a rainbow of pens!
Graduation illustration painted with watercolors
@den_illust Congratulations on your graduation 🌸Illustrator#Illustration#Yuru-fuwa illustrationWatercolorWatercolor paintingWatercolor illustrationWatercolor paintGraduationGraduation Ceremony
♬ Peach Story – Ren Chen & Yu Xing
Here’s a watercolor paint idea with gentle hues and beautiful bleeding effects.
You can softly and tenderly depict cherry blossoms, school backpacks, and memories of elementary school.
Even if you’re not confident in drawing, simply layering and blending colors can create lovely pieces.
Display them in the classroom or hallway, or include them with message cards, and the warm, special atmosphere will grow even more.
The joy of painting and the sense of accomplishment when you finish will become a lasting memory of elementary school.
Be sure to preserve your graduation memories in gentle colors!
Easy to draw! Message card
@hicono08 Starting today, I’ll also be posting an easy-to-draw version ✌🏻GraduationGraduation CeremonyMessage Card
On Nights When Cherry Blossoms Fall – Aimyon
Even with simple colors, just adding some lettering or small illustrations can make it look instantly stylish—such a lovely idea.
By adding tiny motifs like a school backpack, cherry blossoms, or a graduation cap, or simply writing words of thanks and encouragement, you can create a one-of-a-kind, special card.
The gentle brown tones create a calm mood, making it easy to achieve a beautiful result even if you’re not confident in drawing.
It’s fun to make, a joy to give, and a sweet way to color your graduation memories.
school bag
@chiko303 Let's give a message card to a special friend! You can use it for graduation, too!Illustration videoCuteFriendBest friendGraduation
I won’t forget the days with you – my hands are like cream bread.
A school bag brings back scenes from school life, like walking home after classes or strolling side by side with friends.
Adding a keychain or a small embroidered accent can express the owner’s personality.
Use black or navy as the base, and add shadows in light gray to create a sense of depth.
If you draw notebooks or pens layered beside the bag, it evokes the time spent studying.
Even a small addition in the corner of an album or a message board becomes a warm accent that makes you think, “We went through so many days together.”
