5 Easy-to-Make Graduation Party Centerpieces
Graduation parties are all about celebrating achievements and creating memorable moments.
A stunning centerpiece can tie your decor together, impress your guests, and make your party Instagram-worthy—all without breaking the bank.
These five DIY centerpiece ideas are trendy, simple to create, and packed with personality.
Let’s get crafting!
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1. Photo Memories in Mason Jars
Celebrate the graduate’s journey with a centerpiece that doubles as a nostalgic keepsake.
What You’ll Need:
- Mason jars
- String lights or fairy lights
- Small printed photos of the graduate
- Ribbon or twine in school colors
How to Make It:
- Wrap the jars with a ribbon or twine to match the party’s color scheme.
- Insert small, printed photos of the graduate inside the jar.
- Add fairy lights around the photos for a warm, glowing effect.
- Place the jars on a stack of books, a wooden slab, or a small mirror to add height and dimension.
Trend Tip: Arrange the jars in groups of three for a visually appealing, layered look.
2. Cap and Tassel Bouquets
Nothing says “graduation” like a classic cap and tassel, but this centerpiece idea gives it a fresh, floral twist.
What You’ll Need:
- Mini graduation caps (buy or DIY with cardstock)
- Tassels (you can buy or make them)
- Fresh or faux flowers
- A vase or jar
How to Make It:
- Fill the vase with fresh or faux flowers in colors that match the graduate’s school.
- Attach tassels to the stems using small pieces of string.
- Add a mini graduation cap to the top of the arrangement for a playful yet elegant touch.
Pro Tip: Use greenery or baby’s breath as filler to make the bouquet look full and professional.
3. Diploma Roll Centerpieces
This simple yet impactful idea uses rolled paper to mimic diplomas for a unique centerpiece.
What You’ll Need:
- Cylindrical glass vases
- White paper rolled to look like diplomas
- Ribbon in school colors
- Small decorative items like confetti or glitter
How to Make It:
- Roll white paper into tight cylinders and tie them with school-colored ribbons.
- Fill a glass vase halfway with decorative filler like confetti or glitter.
- Arrange the rolled diplomas upright in the vase.
- Place a small graduation cap on top of the vase or scatter mini caps around the base.
Trend Tip: Add a small chalkboard sign that says “Class of 2024” for an extra personalized touch.
4. Balloon Bouquets with a Grad Twist
Balloons are party staples, but adding a graduation-themed spin makes them centerpiece-worthy.
What You’ll Need:
- Balloons in school colors (mix regular and foil balloons)
- Weighted bases (like decorated boxes or jars filled with pebbles)
- Ribbon or string
How to Make It:
- Inflate a mix of balloons and tie them to ribbons or string.
- Attach the balloons to a weighted base, such as a jar filled with pebbles or a decorated box.
- Add themed accents like mini diplomas, tassels, or “Class of 2024” stickers to the balloons.
Pro Tip: Use clear balloons and fill them with confetti or tiny photos of the graduate for a fun, personalized touch.
5. Book Stacks with Grad Flair
Highlight the graduate’s academic journey with this creative and meaningful centerpiece.
What You’ll Need:
- Stacks of books (use old textbooks or thrifted finds)
- A small graduation cap and tassel
- A framed photo of the graduate or a small sign with their favorite quote
How to Make It:
- Stack 2-3 books in the center of each table.
- Place a mini graduation cap or tassel on the top book.
- Add a framed photo of the graduate or a small chalkboard sign with an inspiring message like “The Adventure Begins.”
Trend Tip: Wrap the books in craft paper or paint them in the party’s color scheme for a cohesive look.
Tips for Making Your Centerpieces Stand Out
- Incorporate Personal Touches: Use photos, favorite quotes, or mementos to make the centerpieces unique to the graduate.
- Mix and Match Heights: Combine centerpieces of varying heights to create visual interest across the room.
- Keep It Practical: Ensure your centerpieces aren’t too large or obstructive, so guests can still converse easily.
These easy-to-make graduation centerpieces will not only impress your guests but also add a personal touch to the celebration.
Whether you’re highlighting memories, achievements, or future aspirations, these ideas will help you celebrate your graduate in style.
Time to get crafting and make your party unforgettable! 
