Graduating from high school or college is a milestone that deserves celebration in style. One of the most visible and cherished traditions is decorating your graduation cap. This fun activity not only allows you to express your individuality but also immortalizes this special moment in a tangible way. Here, we delve into five unique stores where you can find all the materials needed to make your cap truly stand-out.
1. Michaels
Michaels, a treasure trove for DIY enthusiasts, offers an extensive selection for graduation cap decorations. Here’s what you can expect:
- Stickers and Decals: Look for graduation-themed stickers, rhinestone letters, and vinyl decals.
- Scrapbook Supplies: Paper, washi tapes, and themed punches that can personalize your cap.
- Paint and Markers: Various colors of acrylic paint, markers, and paint pens for a custom design.
- Glitter and Embellishments: Add some sparkle with glitter glue, sequins, and beads.
Special Events
Michaels often hosts workshops where you can learn techniques for creating personalized graduation caps. These events can provide you with inspiration and skills to make your cap one-of-a-kind.
2. Hobby Lobby
If you’re looking for a comprehensive craft store with an emphasis on celebrations like graduation, Hobby Lobby is a must-visit. They cater to the following aspects:
| Category | What to Find |
|---|---|
| Florals and Foam | Fake flowers, foam letters for 3D effects |
| Party Supplies | Balloons, confetti, confetti letters, and party signs |
| Paper Crafts | Cardstock, patterned papers, and die-cuts |
Hobby Lobby also boasts a sales section where you might find great deals on items perfect for decorating your cap.
3. Amazon
For the ultimate online shopping experience, Amazon has a plethora of graduation cap decorations at your fingertips:
- Pre-Made Kits: Kits with all the essentials for cap decorating
- Specialty Items: Glow-in-the-dark paint, metallic markers, and custom cutouts
- Bulk Buying: Perfect for schools or organizations planning group decorating sessions
- DIY Supplies: Ribbons, tassels, and charms for a personalized touch
4. Joann Fabric and Craft Stores
Joann Fabric, known for its quilting and sewing supplies, also caters to crafters with graduation cap designs in mind:
- Fabric: For fabric rosettes or fabric letters
- Ribbon
- Yarn: For tassels and pompoms
- Notions: Buttons, beads, and iron-on appliques
They also provide classes and events where you can learn different crafting techniques to apply to your graduation cap.
5. Party City
Lastly, Party City focuses on making your celebration memorable with a section dedicated to graduation:
- Themed Kits: Complete kits with pre-designed elements
- Photo Frames: Small frames to showcase personal images or photos
- Fun Add-ons: Like LED lights, which could give your cap an illuminating touch
Inspiring Shopping Experience
Party City’s store layout is designed to inspire party-goers, making it the perfect place to get ideas for your cap.
In summary, decorating your graduation cap is a creative and memorable way to mark the end of an era. Each of these stores provides different supplies and experiences to ensure your cap stands out. Whether you're opting for the DIY approach or looking for premade kits, these stores offer the tools and inspiration needed to craft a unique piece of personal history.
What are some creative ideas for graduation cap decoration?
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Consider using quotes, emblems of your major or future plans, your name, or even messages of thanks to key people in your life. DIY elements like handmade flowers or pompoms, school colors, and themes from your favorite books or movies can also make your cap unique.
Can I use glitter on my graduation cap?
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Yes, glitter can be used on graduation caps. However, it’s recommended to use glitter glue or apply a sealer to prevent loose glitter from falling off during the ceremony.
How early should I start decorating my cap?
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It’s best to start about a week or two before the graduation to allow drying time for any glue or paint, and to ensure there’s time for fixing any mistakes.
What can I do to keep my decorations from falling off?
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Use strong adhesives like hot glue, E6000, or super glue. Additionally, consider attaching items from the top down to gravity assist, and apply a clear sealant to your decorations for extra hold.
Do schools allow graduation cap decorations?
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It varies by institution. Many schools now allow cap decoration with certain restrictions. Check your school’s guidelines to ensure your cap design complies.
