As graduation grows closer, fun traditions are starting to take over the seniors’ busy calendars. With all of the deadlines and expectations filling their plates, decorating graduation caps is a fun activity that can take the stress off graduating. 

Every year, the seniors at Trinity design and decorate their graduation caps to make them look perfect for the big day. It’s a fun way to add a feeling of personalization to the notorious cap and gown combination that every student will have to wear. 

Many students take the sentimental route with their caps. They might add a quote from their favorite movie or character, a family motto, a picture collage or just a ton of glitter and color. Senior Brice Berry plans on paying homage to one of his favorite childhood video games, Minecraft, and found his inspiration on TikTok. 

“I’ll be decorating my cap with the end portal from the final boss of Minecraft alongside the achievement you get for making it there titled ‘The End,’” explains Berry.

Senior Sara Setto plans on making their grad cap Peter Pan themed with the quote, “Even though you want to try to, never grow up.” This idea is nostalgic, sweet and connects to one of Setto’s favorite childhood movies. 

Senior Makailey Shumaker plans on decorating her cap with lots of sparkle and shine, and she found her inspiration on Pinterest. 

“Make positive, creative and inspiring caps. Don’t put anything vulgar on them,” advises Shumaker. 

It’s also just as great to go for a solid color or simpler design to ensure the cap remains timeless. Craft stores like Michaels and Hobby Lobby have graduation cap decorating kits for sale for seniors having trouble coming up with ideas. There’s also a plethora of supplies if a senior has their own idea and needs the materials to make their vision come to life.

On graduation day, the final tradition is that the seniors throw their caps into the sky to celebrate their accomplishment. However, many struggle to decide whether or not to throw the cap that they had just spent hours perfecting.

“I think it’s a great way to signify that you are moving on. While I’m worried about losing it, I will throw my cap because I like the gesture,” says Berry. 

Shumaker agrees with Berry as she will also be throwing her masterpiece on graduation day.

“Even though it’s a bit cheesy, I like it because it’s a small celebration for everything you’ve done to get to that point,” says Shumaker.

With all of the creative liberty the seniors have been given for their graduation caps, they are encouraged to take advantage of the opportunity to decorate them. Creating them with others is a great way to bond with friends for one of the last times before summer break and beyond!