DIY Decor and Keepsakes: Personalizing Your Home Graduation Ceremony

DIY Graduation Decorations

A unique and unforgettable touch can be added to the celebration by making homemade decorations and mementos for a home graduation ceremony. Here are some inspirations and directions for crafting:

1. Graduation Banner:

Materials Needed:

• Cardstock or construction paper
• Marker or pen
• Ribbon or string
• Glue

Instructions:

1. To make the banner flags, cut the cardstock or craft paper into triangular shapes.
2. Write letters on each flag to spell out "Congratulations" or "Class of [Year]".
3. Leaving room between each flag, adhere the flags to the ribbon or thread using adhesive.
4. Spot the banner in a noticeable spot, like along a stairway or above the fireplace.

2. Memory Board:

Materials Needed:

• Corkboard or foam board
• Push pins or thumbtacks
• Printed photos, memorabilia, and mementos
• Decorative fabric or paper (optional)

Instructions:

1. Organize the printed pictures, trinkets, and memories on the foam board or corkboard.
2. Put thumbtacks or push pins in each item to keep it in place.
3. For extra flair, you can choose to wrap the board with paper or fabric decorations before pinning the pieces.
4. During the ceremony, place the memory board on a wall or easel so that visitors can look at it and remember the past.

3. Graduation Cap Centerpieces

Materials Needed:

• Mini graduation caps (can be purchased or made from cardboard and fabric)
• Small flower pots or vases
• Floral foam
• Artificial flowers or greenery

Instructions:

1. Insert a piece of floral foam into each flower pot or vase.
2. Place the mini graduation caps on top of the floral foam.
3. Arrange artificial flowers or greenery around the graduation caps to create a festive centerpiece.
4. Display the centerpieces on tables throughout the ceremony space.

4. Personalized Diploma Scrolls

Materials Needed:

• Cardstock or parchment paper
• Ribbon or twine
• Pen or marker
• Wax seal (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cut the cardstock or parchment paper into rectangular pieces.
2. Write a personalized message or quote on each piece of paper, such as "Congratulations, [Graduate's Name]!"
3. Roll up each piece of paper and tie it with ribbon or twine to create a diploma scroll.
4. Optionally, add a wax seal to the scroll for an extra touch of elegance.
5. Place the diploma scrolls on a decorative tray or in a basket for guests to take home as keepsakes.

4. Graduation Photo Booth

Materials Needed:

• Backdrop stand or sturdy support (e.g., PVC pipes)
• Fabric or large sheet for the backdrop
• Graduation-themed props (e.g., mortarboard hats, diplomas, glasses)
• Camera or smartphone for taking photos

Instructions:

1. Set up the backdrop stand or support and attach the fabric or sheet to create a photo booth backdrop.
2. Arrange the graduation-themed props on a table near the photo booth.
3. Encourage guests to take photos with the props against the backdrop to capture fun memories of the celebration.

These DIY decorations and keepsakes will add a personal and heartfelt touch to your home graduation ceremony, making it a truly memorable occasion for the graduate and guests alike.