🎄 Christmas
10 Best DIY Graduation Leis Ideas for Every Skill Level
These DIY graduation leis ideas are about to make you the MVP of the whole ceremony.
Your kid just survived years of homework, early mornings, and at least one teacher they absolutely could not stand — they deserve more than a card and a handshake.
A handmade lei says “I put in the effort” without requiring a second mortgage (unless you use $100 bills, but that’s your choice).
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There’s something here for every skill level, every budget, and every grad — whether they’re the type to cry at speeches or the one already planning their next adventure.
And if you want to go all-in on the celebration, check out the full graduation party ideas page for even more ways to make the day unforgettable.
More Graduation Party Ideas 🎓
Planning a grad party? Here are a couple more fun ideas to keep the celebration going strong!
✨ Balloon Mosaic Letters – Create giant “GRAD” letters or numbers that double as decor and a photo backdrop—major wow factor with minimal cost.
🎈 Open House Grad Party – Easy, stress-free ideas to host a party guests can pop into anytime (perfect if you don’t want a strict schedule).
10 Graduation Leis Ideas You Can Actually Make
1- How to Make a Graduation Money Lei by Press Print Party
Money is a traditional gift for graduates, and this is the most fun way to deliver it.
There are actually two options for money leis here. One made from construction paper, and one using a premade dollar store lei.
Watch the video or go to the post for a full tutorial.
Graduation Lei Made With Scrunchies by Events to Celebrate
Perfect for a girl who is graduating, this lei is made all out of scrunchies.
Choose scrunchy colors based on the school colors, or just go wild with them.
Graduation Pink Ribbon Lei Tutorial by Stilettos and Sin City on You Tube
This lei comes together with a polished, almost store-bought look that’s hard to believe is handmade.
The process is surprisingly simple, and you can customize the colors to match school colors, a favorite shade, or any palette you have in mind.
How To Make This Beautiful Marigold Flower Ribbon Lei by Moms little things on YouTube
Marigolds are known for those lovely, ruffly flowers. This handmade lei imitates the ruffles for a pretty ribbon floral lei.
DIY Ribbon Graduation Lei with Paper Orchids by Handmade By Sara Kim on YouTube
These paper orchids look really amazing once everything is put together. There is a cutting machine file that works with most cutting machines, or it can be printed and cut by hand.
DIY Candy Lei by Passionate Penny Pincher on YouTube
This DIY graduation lei is the perfect option for the crafting-challenged, and grads are still sure to love it.
Make a simple candy lei out of plastic wrap, ribbon, and candy.
Friendship Bracelet Graduation Lei by Enchanting crafts by Ana on YouTube
Friendship bracelets have come back in a huge way lately. This lei design is based on the classic friendship bracelet and is super customizable.
Graduation Lei Using Fabric by House of Hinu on YouTube
Make a pretty floral-style lei using fabrics instead. Choose several different colors with individual themes or significance for a really pretty end result.
DIY Graduation Faux Flower Lei by Ashlee Falco on YouTube
This lei takes a little time to put together, but the finished look is absolutely stunning. The materials are budget-friendly, yet the final result feels over-the-top special. Your grad will stand out in the best way.
Flat Money Graduation Lei by Beat Blazer on YouTube
This is another variant of the money lei, but it uses a different folding pattern. This allows the bills to lay flat for a more elegant look.
Keyword FAQs
What is the best graduation lei for beginners?
The easiest option is a simple money lei using a premade lei from the dollar store. Just add folded bills and you’re done — no crafting skills required. Check out the full tutorial above for step by step instructions.
What materials do you need to make a graduation lei?
It depends on the style, but most DIY graduation leis use ribbon, fabric, paper, or candy. The good news is most materials are budget-friendly and easy to find at any craft store or dollar store.
How long does it take to make a graduation lei?
Anywhere from 15 minutes for a simple candy lei to a couple of hours for something more intricate like a ribbon floral or paper orchid design. Pick your level based on how much time — and patience — you have.
Can you make a graduation lei with money?
Absolutely, and grads love it. You can fold bills into shapes and string them together for a lei that’s both meaningful and practical. Check out the money lei tutorials above for two different folding styles.
Don’t forget to pin these graduation leis ideas:
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Check out our Graduation Printables
