Graduation is full of many traditions, but decorating caps is becoming a huge one. What started out as a small way to show personality has turned into a huge display of creativity. Why do we do it? What’s the story behind this tradition and many others?
Graduation caps are also known as mortarboards. They were used in many different ways in history such as, forms of protest, religion or they have their roots in medieval Europe, where they were first work by clergy and scholars to symbolize status and academic achievements.
The square shape the caps have are believed to represent books. Now, the graduation cap is a notable symbol for education: A Symbol of Learning.
“I am so excited to throw my cap at graduation. It’s such a widespread tradition, and I feel like it’s a moment of almost childlike celebration that refers back to where we started our journey initially, in elementary school. When I’ve gone to commencements in the past, it’s such a fun moment to watch the grads let go of everything to celebrate in a lighthearted, carefree manner at the end of the ceremony,” senior Cassidy Gable said.
Another iconic symbolic action of the graduation caps is the gesture or moving the tassel from the right side of the cap to the left. When handed their diploma, seniors switch their tassel to the right to symbolize a completed education.
This also is the reasoning behind the tradition of throwing graduation caps in the air, at the end of the ceremony.
At Dallastown, the graduating class meets towards the end zone following the ceremony to all throw their caps together.
While it makes for a great picture and experience, some seniors worry about losing them, especially if they have decorated them.
Decorating graduation caps is one of the best ways to celebrate individuality and personal achievement on a day that marks a major life milestone.
As the traditional cap and gown create a uniform look, decorating the cap allows graduates to express their unique personalities, future goals, memories or sense of humor.
It’s also a fun way to stand out in crowds of graduates and make the moment even more memorable for photos, friends, and family. The tradition has grown in popularity over the years
It was a creative way to honor the hard work and experiences that led to graduation.
“I’m planning on decorating my cap with the seal of my college. I’m doing it with my best friend who I met at Dallastown Elementary in 2nd grade. We’re going to college together in Rhode Island, so we wanted to decorate our caps with our colleges as a way to show where we’re going in the next step of life. But the fact that we’re doing it together will be a memory and represents that we’re moving forward together,” Gable said.
It’s now an iconic tradition as a decorated cap tells a personal story in the. middle of a shared celebration.
Many Dallastown students are still deciding their designs.
“ I have ideas on my Pinterest board, still planning what I wanna do exactly but I wanna do a glitter paper on the top and add flowers. I think the tradition is fun and I’m excited to participate in it!” senior Grace Davis said.
Create your own! (Step by Step)
- Measure and Cut
Use cardstock to create a square the same size as your cap. Cut a small hole in the center for the tassel button. - Plan Your Layout
Sketch your design lightly with pencil before you glue anything down. Symmetry and spacing are key! - Decorate the Base
Add paint, Cut out images, markers, or paper elements. Let it dry fully before adding heavier elements like gems or flowers. - Stick It On
Once you’re happy with your design, glue the decorated cardstock onto your cap. Press gently and evenly. - Secure the Tassel
Make sure your tassel still fits around the button and hangs freely!
Your graduation will forever be more than just a ceremony. It’s a celebration of everything you accomplished and what’s ahead in your future. A decorated cap will be your message to the world and your final moment of secondary education. So great creative, and wear your achievement with pride.
