Picture this: You’re sitting in your cap and gown, surrounded by your fellow graduates. You’ve worked hard to get to this moment, and you’re ready to celebrate your accomplishments. But wait, where’s your graduation hat? Don’t worry, you can make your own graduation hat in just a few easy steps. Follow these instructions to make your own graduation cap and become the envy of all your classmates on the big day.
First thing’s first, measurements. To make a graduation cap that fits your head perfectly, you’ll need to measure the circumference of your head. Use a measuring tape or a piece of string to measure around the widest part of your head, just above your eyebrows. Once you have your measurement, add about 2 inches to allow for some overlap in the back of the hat. This will be the diameter of the circle that forms the base of your cap.
Next, cut out your circle. You can use cardboard, foam board, or even a piece of poster board. Once you have cut out the circle, cover it with fabric or wrapping paper for a more finished look. Then, cut out a strip of fabric or ribbon that is long enough to tie around the base of your cap and secure it on top of your head. Finally, attach a tassel to the top of the cap and you’re all set! With your very own, custom graduation hat, you’re sure to make a statement on your big day. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your supplies and get started!
Gathering Essential Materials
Creating a graduation hat is a simple and rewarding endeavor, perfect for celebrating this momentous occasion. To begin, gather the following essential materials:
Cardboard
The foundation of your graduation hat will be made from sturdy cardboard. Choose a piece that is at least 24 inches long and 18 inches wide. Thicker cardboard, such as corrugated cardboard, will provide more robust support for the hat.
Types of Cardboard
| Type | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Cardboard Box | Lightweight, readily available, but may not be as sturdy as other options. |
| Foam Board | Lightweight, rigid, and easy to cut and shape. |
| Corrugated Cardboard | Sturdy, durable, and provides excellent support. |
Fabric
The fabric will cover the exterior of your hat. Choose a durable fabric that won’t fray or tear easily, such as cotton or polyester. The color of the fabric will depend on your school or personal preference.
Tassel
The tassel is the iconic symbol of a graduation hat. It can be purchased at craft stores or made using thread or yarn. Choose a tassel in a color that complements the fabric.
Glue
Use a strong adhesive such as craft glue or hot glue to secure the various components of the hat.
Measuring Tape or Ruler
Measure and mark the cardboard accurately to ensure the correct shape and size of the hat.
Pencil or Pen
Sketch the outline and creases of the hat on the cardboard.
Scissors
Cut the cardboard and fabric cleanly and precisely.
Shaping the Hat Base
The foundation of your graduation hat is essential for creating a sturdy and well-structured base. Here are the steps to shape the hat base:
- Cut the cardboard: Using a ruler and pencil, measure and mark a circle with a radius of about 6 inches (15 cm) on a piece of cardboard. Cut out the circle.
- Create the cone: Cut a second piece of cardboard into a rectangle that measures 10 inches (25 cm) in length and 4 inches (10 cm) in width. Roll the rectangle into a cone shape, overlapping the edges slightly and securing them with tape. Trim the bottom edge of the cone so that it matches the size of the cardboard circle.
- Attach the cone to the circle: Apply a layer of glue around the bottom edge of the cone. Place the cardboard circle on top of the glue and press firmly to secure it. Allow the glue to dry completely.
- Stiffen the base: To prevent the hat base from becoming flimsy, reinforce it with an additional layer of cardboard. Cut another circle of cardboard that matches the size of the base. Apply a layer of glue to the top of the base and place the cardboard circle on top. Press down firmly and allow the glue to dry.
Table of Hat Base Measurements:
| Measurement | Value |
|---|---|
| Cardboard circle radius | 6 inches (15 cm) |
| Cone length | 10 inches (25 cm) |
| Cone width | 4 inches (10 cm) |
Creating the Cap
To create the cap, follow these steps:
- Cut a circle of cardboard with a diameter of 12 inches (30 cm).
- Cut a strip of black fabric that is 4 inches (10 cm) wide and long enough to wrap around the circumference of the circle.
- Wrap the fabric strip around the circumference of the circle and glue it in place.
- Cut a small circle of cardboard with a diameter of 2 inches (5 cm).
- Glue the small circle to the center of the large circle.
Creating the Tassel
To create the tassel, follow these steps:
- Cut a piece of yarn that is 12 inches (30 cm) long.
- Fold the yarn in half and thread it through the hole in the center of the small circle.
- Tie the ends of the yarn together to form a loop.
- Cut six pieces of yarn that are each 6 inches (15 cm) long.
- Fold each piece of yarn in half and tie it to the loop you created in step 3.
- Trim the ends of the yarn to create a tassel.
Creating the Board
Creating the board is the final step in making a graduation hat. Here are some detailed steps to help you create a sturdy and visually appealing board:
- Choose a sturdy piece of cardboard or foam board.
- Cut the board into a rectangular shape that is slightly larger than the cap. This will provide a solid base for the cap to rest on.
- Cover the board with black fabric or paint. This will give the board a finished look and enhance its visual appeal.
- Attach the cap to the board using glue or tape. Ensure it is securely fastened so that the cap remains stable and does not detach.
- Consider adding additional embellishments to the board, such as a school logo, personal name, or decorative elements. This will personalize the hat and make it a more meaningful keepsake.
| Materials | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cardboard | 1 piece (12-inch diameter for cap, 2-inch diameter for tassel) |
| Black fabric | 1 strip (4 inches wide, long enough to wrap around cap circumference) |
| Yarn | 1 piece (12 inches long for tassel, 6 pieces (6 inches long each) for tassel strands) |
| Glue |
Attaching the Cap and Tassel
Step 1: Measure the Tassel Placement
Determine the center of the mortarboard’s top and mark it with a small pencil dot. Measure the length of the tassel cord and divide it in half. Mark the halfway point on the cord.
Step 2: Cut a Hole for the Tassel
Using a sharp scissor or knife, carefully cut a small hole at the center dot on the mortarboard. The hole should be just large enough to accommodate the tassel cord.
Step 3: Thread the Tassel Cord
Insert the halfway point of the tassel cord through the hole from the inside of the mortarboard. Pull the cord all the way through until the tassel is centered on the top.
Step 4: Tie the Cord
Tie the two ends of the tassel cord together tightly to secure the tassel. Create a knot that is small enough to fit through the hole in the mortarboard.
Step 5: Adjust the Tassel Length and Position
| Adjustment | How to |
|---|---|
| Lengthen/shorten | Pull or release the tassel cord from the hole in the mortarboard. |
| Move forward/backward | Slide the tassel along the cord and adjust the knot’s position inside the mortarboard. |
| Center | Ensure the tassel is exactly in the middle of the mortarboard’s top. |
Once the tassel is perfectly positioned, tie the knot securely and trim any excess cord.
Forming the Mortarboard Top
1. Cut the Foam Board
Cut a rectangle from the foam board that is the desired size and shape of the mortarboard top. The most common size is 9 x 12 inches, but you can adjust the dimensions to fit your head.
2. Fold the Edges
Fold up the edges of the foam board rectangle all around by about 1 inch. Crease the edges sharply. This will create a sturdy frame for the mortarboard top.
3. Glue the Edges
Apply glue to the inside of the folded edges and press them down to secure them. Allow the glue to dry completely.
4. Cut the Cardboard
Cut a piece of cardboard to the same size and shape as the foam board top. This cardboard will provide additional support and rigidity to the mortarboard.
5. Glue the Cardboard
Apply glue to the top of the foam board and place the cardboard on top. Press down firmly and allow the glue to dry completely.
6. Reinforce the Corners
For extra strength, reinforce the corners of the mortarboard top by adding additional layers of cardboard or foam board. Cut small squares or triangles of cardboard or foam board and glue them over the corners. Allow the glue to dry completely.
**Tip:** To create a more professional-looking finish, use black or dark-colored cardboard for the reinforcement pieces.
7. Cover the Mortarboard
Once the mortarboard top is sturdy and reinforced, you can cover it with fabric or paper. Black velvet is a popular choice for graduation mortarboards, but you can use any material that you like. Glue or staple the fabric or paper over the cardboard.
8. Decorate the Mortarboard
Once the mortarboard top is covered, you can decorate it to your liking. You can add a tassel, fringe, or other embellishments to personalize your graduation cap.
Decorating the Mortarboard
The mortarboard, or graduation cap, is a traditional symbol of academic achievement. It is often decorated with a tassel, which represents the tassel that is turned from right to left during the graduation ceremony to signify the transition from student to graduate. The mortarboard can also be decorated with other items, such as:.
7. Paints and Markers: Use acrylic paints, paint pens, or fabric markers to create designs, patterns, or write messages on the mortarboard. This technique allows for precise details and vibrant colors, making it ideal for intricate designs.
| Materials | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Acrylic paints or paint pens | Prepare the mortarboard by cleaning and priming it. |
| Fabric markers | Sketch or draw the desired design on the mortarboard. |
| Brushes (optional) | Apply the paint or markers carefully, following the design. |
| Sealant (optional) | Allow the paint or markers to dry thoroughly. |
| Apply a sealant to protect the decoration from smudging or fading. |
In addition to these common decorations, you can also use other items such as stickers, ribbons, tassels, or even small figurines to personalize your mortarboard. The goal is to create a unique and meaningful decoration that reflects your personality and celebrates your academic achievement.
Adding a Diploma Holder
To create a diploma holder, you will need:
- Foam core board (1/2-inch thick)
- Mat board (1/16-inch thick)
- Measuring tape or ruler
- Pencil
- Cutting mat
- Utility knife
- Glue or sticky tape
Instructions:
1. Measure and cut the foam core board to the desired size of the diploma holder. This will be the base of the holder. For an 8.5 x 11-inch diploma, cut the foam core board to 12 x 14 inches.
2. Measure and cut the mat board to the size of the diploma. For an 8.5 x 11-inch diploma, cut the mat board to 8.5 x 11 inches.
3. Center the mat board on the foam core board base and glue or tape it into place.
4. Measure and mark the center of the top edge of the diploma holder. This will be the point where the ribbon will be attached.
5. Punch a hole through the center mark using a hole punch or utility knife.
6. Cut a length of ribbon long enough to tie around the neck and hang the diploma holder. Thread the ribbon through the hole and tie it off.
7. Decorate the diploma holder with additional embellishments, such as a tassel or ribbon.
8. To add a ribbon and tassel:
- Cut a piece of ribbon about 30 inches long.
- Fold the ribbon in half and tie a knot about 2 inches from the folded end.
- Thread the ribbon through the hole in the top of the diploma holder.
- Tie the tassel onto the ribbon, about 1 inch from the knot.
- Trim the ends of the ribbon to the desired length.
Finishing Touches
To perfect your graduation hat, add the following finishing touches:
9. Tassel
The tassel is the most iconic element of a graduation hat, representing the completion of your studies.
| Year of Graduation | Tassel Color |
|---|---|
| 2023 | Royal Blue and Gold |
| 2024 | Emerald Green and Gold |
| 2025 | Columbia Blue and Gold |
Choose a tassel in the correct color and attach it to the cap button using the provided loop or pin. Allow the tassel to hang over the brim of the hat, facing the front or right side.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
1. The hat is too small or too large
If the hat is too small, you can try cutting a strip of cardboard or foam board and gluing it to the inside of the hatband. If the hat is too large, you can try adding a layer of batting or felt to the inside of the hatband.
2. The hat is lopsided
If the hat is lopsided, you can try adjusting the position of the tassel or ribbon. You can also try using a hat stretcher to stretch the hat out to the correct shape.
3. The tassel is not straight
If the tassel is not straight, you can try gently pulling on it to straighten it out. You can also try using a comb or brush to comb out any tangles.
4. The hat is wrinkled
If the hat is wrinkled, you can try ironing it on a low setting. You can also try using a steamer to remove any wrinkles.
5. The hat is not the right color
If the hat is not the right color, you can try dyeing it. You can also try using fabric paint to change the color of the hat.
6. The hat is not the right shape
If the hat is not the right shape, you can try using a hat mold to reshape it. You can also try using a hat stretcher to stretch the hat out to the correct shape.
7. The hat is not the right material
If the hat is not the right material, you can try using a different material to make it. You can also try using a fabric glue to attach a different material to the hat.
8. The hat is not the right size
If the hat is not the right size, you can try cutting it down to the correct size. You can also try adding a layer of batting or felt to the inside of the hatband to make it smaller.
9. The hat is not the right style
If the hat is not the right style, you can try altering it to change the style. You can also try using a hat accessory to change the style of the hat.
10. The hat is not the right quality
If the hat is not the right quality, you can try making it out of a better quality material. You can also try using a better quality glue to attach the different parts of the hat together.
How To Make Graduation Hat
A graduation hat is a traditional symbol of academic achievement. It is worn by students at graduation ceremonies to signify their completion of a degree program. Graduation hats are typically made of black velvet or cardboard and feature a square or mortarboard cap. They are often decorated with a tassel, which is worn on the left side of the hat. The tassel color varies depending on the degree program that the student has completed.
If you are graduating soon, you may be wondering how to make a graduation hat. The good news is that making a graduation hat is relatively easy and inexpensive. You can make a graduation hat with a few simple materials and a little bit of time.
Here are the materials you will need to make a graduation hat:
- Black velvet or cardboard
- Scissors
- Ruler or measuring tape
- Pencil or pen
- Glue
- Tassel
Once you have gathered your materials, you can follow these steps to make a graduation hat:
1. Cut a square or rectangle out of the black velvet or cardboard. The size of the square or rectangle will depend on the size of your head.
2. Fold the square or rectangle in half twice, creating a crease in the center.
3. Unfold the square or rectangle and cut a small hole in the center of the crease. This hole is where the tassel will be attached.
4. Glue the tassel to the center of the hole.
5. Fold the square or rectangle in half again, bringing the two sides together.
6. Glue the two sides together, creating a cone shape.
7. Trim any excess fabric or cardboard from the bottom of the hat.
8. Your graduation hat is now complete!
People Also Ask About How To Make Graduation Hat
How much does it cost to make a graduation hat?
The cost of making a graduation hat will vary depending on the materials you use. However, you can typically make a graduation hat for less than $20.
How long does it take to make a graduation hat?
It takes about 30 minutes to make a graduation hat.
What are some tips for making a graduation hat?
Here are some tips for making a graduation hat:
- Use high-quality materials to ensure that your hat will last.
- Measure your head carefully before cutting the fabric or cardboard.
- Fold the fabric or cardboard precisely to create a neat and even hat.
- Glue the tassel securely to the hat.
- Trim any excess fabric or cardboard from the bottom of the hat.
